Report Information from ProQuest

Report Information from ProQuest

July 05 2019 03:50

Table of contents

1. Taiwan: Brazil suspends issuing visas to Taiwan tourists
2. Taiwan foreign ministry urges Brazil to lift tourist visa ban
3. January 6, 2008 (Page 62 of 264)
4. AROUND OUR WORLD IN 365 DAYS Series: SPECIAL TO THE TIMES: [STATE Edition]
5. Spread your wings
6. Bradesco Seguros e Previdencia; Bradesco Seguros Christmas Tree is the Year-End Attraction in Brazil
7. Bradesco Seguros e Previdencia; Bradesco Seguros Christmas Tree is the Year-End Attraction in Brazil
8. January 9, 2008 (Page 8 of 80)
9. January 10, 2008 (Page 6 of 112)
10. Universal McCann gains #1m Brazilian tourism brief
11. January 13, 2008 (Page 60 of 221)
12. January 13, 2008 (Page 62 of 274)
13. Find your fun at Brazil's carnival; Feel free to watch the festivities, party in the streets or, if you dare, join the parade.: [FINAL Edition]
14. Get a bellyful of rice and beans before jumping with Jean
15. January 20, 2008 (Page 68 of 211)
16. January 20, 2008 (Page 67 of 211)
17. January 20, 2008 (Page 76 of 312)
18. After the Excess, the Insects
19. Richemont doubts hit BAT: [ASIA EDITION]
20. BAT struggles for air on fears over Richemont stake: [LONDON 1ST EDITION]
21. Brazil resumes issuing visas to Taiwan tourists
22. DIGEST: [BROWARD METRO EDITION]
23. [ iraq ]
24. January 26, 2008 (Page 19 of 68)
25. The World | In Brief: [FINAL Edition]
26. January 27, 2008 (Page 19 of 132)
27. Carnaval on a Smaller Stage
28. January 27, 2008 (Page 73 of 300)
29. A SURVIVAL GUIDE TO CARNIVAL IN RIO: [BROWARD METRO EDITION]
30. BRAZIL TO HAVE AGRICULTURAL ATTACH? AT EMBASSIES
31. Her life: Sambas, suntans and surgery; Just in time for carnival, a Brazilian model approaches the record for body work.: [CENTRAL FLORIDA Edition]
32. January 30, 2008 (Page 9 of 104)
33. January 30, 2008 (Page 28 of 74)
34. PLASTIC SURGERY COMES NATURALLY FOR MODEL BRAZIL CARNIVAL STAR HAS TALLIED 42 OPERATIONS: [BROWARD METRO EDITION]
35. CARNIVAL KING HANDED KEYS TO RIO AS PARTY BEGINS EARLY: [BROWARD METRO EDITION]
36. Event Brief of Q4 2007 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Earnings Conference Call - Final
37. January 31, 2008 (Page 10 of 76)
38. Brazil's Carnaval pushes bounds of taste, eccentricity
39. World - Thursday
40. February 1, 2008 (Page 2 of 112)
41. February 1, 2008 (Page 10 of 163)
42. RIO JUDGE BANS FLOAT DEPICTING HOLOCAUST: [BROWARD METRO EDITION]
43. Carnaval Arrives Early This Year, Too Soon for Brazil; A Move Is Afoot to Delink It From the Lunar Calendar And Fix a Date in March
44. CULTURE MIX; A deeper brown; A rich exhibition explores blacks' influence on Mexican culture.
45. La vida es un carnaval: El sur de la Florida se viste de fiesta con tres muestras culturales
46. February 3, 2008 (Page 19 of 86)
47. February 3, 2008 (Page 2 of 164)
48. No Body Left Untoned Preparing for Carnival
49. Brazil's Carnaval on a smaller scale
50. No body left untoned preparing for Carnival
51. No body left untoned preparing for Carnival in Brazil
52. February 3, 2008 (Page 62 of 233)
53. February 3, 2008 (Page 62 of 319)
54. Carnaval espanta disputas y tristezas
55. Carnival rolls in Rio
56. Purists bemoan 'Carnaval Inc.'; Rio's big event has become an ad for airlines, milk producers, unions and organized crime.
57. No Body Left Untoned Preparing for Carnival
58. BRIEF: It's Carnival
59. February 4, 2008 (Page 6 of 73)
60. Carnival a likely time for Vale Xstrata deal: [LONDON 1ST EDITION]
61. February 5, 2008 (Page 8 of 60)
62. February 5, 2008 (Page 28 of 60)
63. International news briefs: Ryanair to pay Sarkozy and new wife $90,000 in damages
64. February 6, 2008 (Page 26 of 68)
65. Nordstrom Celebrates Black History Month with Exclusive Soul Music Compilation CD
66. Happenings
67. Subdued LatAm bond mart broods in silence
68. Messenger-Inquirer, Owensboro, Ky., Karen Owen column: Local E-Team members raising support for summer missions
69. It’s Party Time in the Galleries
70. February 10, 2008 (Page 66 of 242)
71. February 10, 2008 (Page 78 of 311)
72. February 10, 2008 (Page 94 of 311)
73. NEWSWEEK International Editions: Highlights and Exclusives, February 18, 2008
74. NEWSWEEK International Editions: Highlights and Exclusives, February 18, 2008
75. Robbers steal art worth millions
76. Q4 2007 Acergy S.A. Earnings Conference Call - Final
77. Tupi Adds Luster To BG's Investor Appeal
78. Happenings
79. February 19, 2008 (Page 20 of 52)
80. Brazil alcohol ban hard for retailers to swallow
81. Happenings
82. Q4 2007 LOJAS RENNER SA Earnings Conference Call (English) - Final
83. Perú Negro trae su Zamba Malató
84. Fraud amid fervour
85. Echoes of Amado in the Dark and the Light
86. February 24, 2008 (Page 87 of 301)
87. Students 'steel' the show
88. Names in the news
89. February 27, 2008 (Page 2 of 86)
90. February 27, 2008 (Page 4 of 76)
91. JACKSON'S A THRILLER: [BROWARD METRO EDITION]
92. Maurice Zarmati Named President & CEO of Costa Cruise Lines - North America
93. Q4 2007 AmBev - Companhia de Bebidas Das Americas Earnings Conference Call - Final
94. PAGE 2
95. The X, Y, Z of Brazilian excuses
96. Lure of the Samba
97. Front & Center: Milwaukee, Wis.: Lure of the Samba
98. March 2, 2008 (Page 191 of 310)
99. March 2, 2008 (Page 231 of 310)
100. WEEKEND FESTIVITIES FINISH SEASON: [CENTRAL BROWARD EDITION]
101. Cooper City Optimist soccer season ends with weekend celebration
102. Costa Cruises; Maurice Zarmati Named President & CEO of Costa Cruise Lines - North America
103. Costa Cruises; Maurice Zarmati Named President & CEO of Costa Cruise Lines - North America
104. Costa Cruises; Maurice Zarmati Named President & CEO of Costa Cruise Lines - North America
105. Costa Cruises; Maurice Zarmati Named President & CEO of Costa Cruise Lines - North America
106. European, South American and Asian ports and itineraries are the hottest things afloat
107. This Week's Calendar: [FINAL Edition]
108. March 9, 2008 (Page 91 of 132)
109. March 9, 2008 (Page 69 of 229)
110. March 9, 2008 (Page 76 of 319)
111. Look to Europe, Asia for trendy cruises
112. Financials lead FTSE sell-off
113. Analysts see acute need for liquidity at exposed Wolseley
114. Daily Mail, London, market report column
115. The Americas: A portrait in red; AIDS in Brazil
116. March 16, 2008 (Page 90 of 356)
117. BULL RIDING ROPES IN BRAZILIANS SOUTH FLORIDA ASSOCIATION LURES RODEO RIDERS WHO DREAM OF COMPETING IN U.S. PRO CIRCUIT
118. Everyone's a Brazil nut
119. dance fitness: Drop the barbells and do a ballroom blitz to help you blast away the fat
120. Luna Negra concert shatters stereotypes
121. GETTING A TASTE OF TEACHING: ACADEMY PUTS HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ON THE FRONT LINES
122. Scene calendar
123. Shoe Carnival Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2007 Results
124. Don't stand so close to me Caracas
125. March 21, 2008 (Page 149 of 192)
126. March 21, 2008 (Page 66 of 192)
127. Today calendar
128. Weekend calendar for 3/22 and 3/23
129. March 23, 2008 (Page 67 of 298)
130. CRUISE ROUND-UP: Bigger and better
131. March 29, 2008 (Page 158 of 174)
132. Intrigue surrounds $1 million Florida Derby
133. BRAZIL BISHOP BOOED
134. Three May Be a Crowd, but It Can Also Be a Marriage
135. BRAZILAND IN THE EMIRATES
136. Sao paulo rant lands emirates with prestigious digital award
137. April 10, 2008 (Page 52 of 71)
138. The bloggers among the stars
139. 'It has all happened by accident'
140. Lured across the Pond to a life on a small island
141. April 13, 2008 (Page 54 of 271)
142. BG urges caution over Brazil carnival
143. Gartner Says Worldwide PC Market Grew 12 Percent in First Quarter of 2008
144. Calendar
145. Rotary exchange is a bridge with Brazil
146. From Jazz to Fusion, Late and Live in Madrid
147. Gartner Reports Worldwide PC Market Grew 12 Percent in First Quarter of 2008
148. Madrid: From jazz to fusion, late and live
149. Brazilian Tourism Board Woos (African) American Travelers to Brazil
150. Survivalist Spirit at the Milan Furniture Fair
151. Brazilian Carnival at the Playboy Mansion
152. April 26, 2008 (Page 6 of 46)
153. Popular tourist city deadly for residents; Soaring homicide rate among the poor of Recife, Brazil, gets little notice. But a team of journalists is trying to change that.
154. Q1 2008 FEMSA Earnings Conference Call - Final
155. April 29, 2008 (Page 23 of 78)
156. The greatest game in the world
157. GRANNIES ON SAFARI(R) Returns for a Second Season on Public Television Stations Nationwide: National Broadcast premiere, Saturday, May 3, 2008 (check local listings)
158. May 7 Calendar
159. AmBev Reports First Quarter 2008 Results
160. Q1 2008 Inbev Earnings Conference Call - Final
161. Q1 2008 AmBev - Companhia de Bebidas Das Americas Earnings Conference Call - Final
162. Q1 2008 Companhia Energetica de Minas Gerais (CEMIG) Earnings Conference Call - Final
163. Higher barley prices hit Inbev
164. Earnings Digest Brief -- InBev SA: Net Falls 11% on Material Cost, Lower Beer Sales in Brazil
165. May 11, 2008 (Page 24 of 305)
166. REPORTERS BLOW LID OFF BRAZIL'S DEADLIEST CITY RECIFE VIOLENCE MOSTLY STAYS IN POOR AREAS
167. May 12, 2008 (Page 25 of 34)
168. Q1 2008 MERCADOLIBRE INC Earnings Conference Call - Final
169. Q1 2008 Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. Earnings Conference Call - Final
170. COMING AROUND AGAIN LONG-AWAITED NEW CARLY SIMON ALBUM WAS INSPIRED BY THE BEATS OF BRAZIL.
171. Calendar May 15th
172. Arte a la carta
173. Samba on Two Wheels Stenberg Grabs Win in Rio
174. Chariot off to a flyer
175. Scene calendar
176. May 25, 2008 (Page 72 of 292)
177. May 26, 2008 (Page 29 of 74)
178. So Paulo thinks millions attended gay-pride parade
179. GAY PRIDE PARADE DRAWS MILLIONS ANNUAL SAO PAULO EVENT IS ONE OF THE WORLD'S BIGGEST.
180. Shoe Carnival Reports First Quarter 2008 Results
181. May 30, 2008 (Page 26 of 162)
182. May 30, 2008 (Page 97 of 162)
183. Slumming it in style
184. Slumming it in style
185. June 1, 2008 (Page 64 of 345)
186. Scene calendar
187. Brazil Oil IPO Lures Investors; Eike Batista Bets Undersea Leases Will Yield Gusher
188. June 15, 2008 (Page 60 of 323)
189. June 15, 2008 (Page 18 of 323)
190. BRAZIL'S JAPANESE CELEBRATING 100 YEARS GROUP OF 1.5 MILLION LARGEST OUTSIDE OF JAPAN ITSELF
191. Japanese mark 100 years in Brazil; Immigrants first arrived as poor farmers in 1908, but are now well integrated into society. They pioneered techniques still in use.
192. June 16, 2008 (Page 10 of 30)
193. June 17, 2008 (Page 13 of 58)
194. Latin love: Blame it on bossa nova: Sao Paulo-born woman brings passion for music, Brazil's love of life back to Japan
195. June 19, 2008 (Page 30 of 56)
196. Eyeing tourism, Haiti battles its violent reputation
197. Events in Westchester
198. A Splash of Color, Culture
199. Spare Times: For Children
200. Festival may leave downtown: Riverfront renovation could prompt possibly permanent move
201. Weekend Planner: More than just Red, White & Blue
202. Once Bitten
203. St. Louis Post-Dispatch Bill McClellan column: Blame it on Rio: It's about time to give up on French
204. Young Catholics kick off World Youth Day in Sydney
205. Young Catholics kick off World Youth Day in Sydney
206. July 21, 2008 (Page 16 of 64)
207. July 21, 2008 (Page 28 of 66)
208. The world to meet scousers
209. Friday: Coldplay and Disney Block Party
210. Arts: Celebrating the beauty of diversity
211. August 2, 2008 (Page 9 of 42)
212. For Wealthy Brazilian, Money From Ore and Might From the Cosmos
213. August 2, 2008 (Page 8 of 234)
214. Cavalcanti draws strength from 'cosmos'
215. Q4 2008 Cisco Systems Earnings Conference Call - Final
216. Event Brief of Q4 2008 Cisco Systems Earnings Conference Call - Final
217. August 7, 2008 (Page 7 of 60)
218. SCENE: NIGHTWATCH
219. August 10, 2008 (Page 63 of 256)
220. Q2 2008 LANXESS AG Earnings Conference Call - Final
221. 2nd UPDATE: Brazil Brewer AmBev Sees 2Q Profits Drop
222. A danceable feast: Wildly rhythmic Gregorio Uribe Big Band adds Colombian flavor to Latin Fest
223. Markets Friday: FTSE reverses early gains
224. Feel Brazil: Asakusa Samba Carnival: Twenty teams will compete for honors in a thrilling annual spectacle set for Aug. 30
225. Brazil has 3 teams (sort of) in quarterfinals
226. 28TEL Challenges Skype With 'Mobility on VOIP': Free Mobile International Calls Are Now Available in The U.S.; No Software, No Internet Access Needed
227. Dorival Caymmi, Singer of Brazil, Is Dead at 94
228. PRESS RELEASE: Montreal "Passes Go" to Claim the Top Spot on Global Monopoly Game Board
229. Morning briefs
230. INVESCO PERPETUAL SELECT TRUST PLC - Final Results
231. PRESS RELEASE: Shoe Carnival Reports Second Quarter 2008 Results
232. Monopoly's new high-rent district
233. Crossing the Blues
234. August 24, 2008 (Page 33 of 118)
235. August 24, 2008 (Page 176 of 255)
236. WARM-UP FOR CARNIVAL IN MIRAMAR SATURDAY EVENT SPOTLIGHTS CARIBBEAN FOOD, MUSIC, CULTURE
237. Warm-up for Carnival coming to Miramar: Saturday event spotlights Caribbean food, music, culture
238. PRESS RELEASE: Delta Adds Brazil's Amazon Region, Beaches of Northeast Coast to Growing Service Between Atlanta and Latin America
239. Spare Times
240. Delta Air Lines: Delta Adds Brazil's Amazon Region, Beaches of Northeast Coast to Growing Service between Atlanta and Latin America; New flights offer convenient access to world's largest passenger hub in Atlanta to Manaus and Recife-Fortaleza
241. Dance, eat and party like a Brazilian next week
242. Spare Times: [Schedule][1]
243. More far-flung festival fun at Sado Island's Earth Celebration
244. Sounds of Little Brazil, Bursting With Pride
245. August 31, 2008 (Page 58 of 254)
246. GM TAKES THE LEAD SOUTH FLORIDA'S BIGGEST COMPANY IS AN AMERICAN AUTOMAKER PUSHING TO EXPAND ITS GLOBAL REACH
247. GM division leads South Florida business with $18.9 billion in sales: South Florida's biggest company is an American automaker pushing to expand its global reach
248. BRIEF: Asakusa sways to samba in annual carnival
249. Breno Mello, 76, Star of ‘Orpheus,’ Dies
250. September 19, 2008 (Page 40 of 107)
251. Moore Capital Management LLC 2Q 13F: Largest Purchases
252. Moore Capital Management 2Q 13F: Holdings As Of June 30
253. September 21, 2008 (Page 95 of 264)
254. OppenheimerFunds Inc 2Q 13F: Holdings As Of June 30
255. Marpessa Dawn, Eurydice in the Film ‘Black Orpheus,’ Dies at 74
256. Pre-salt Shakes Things Up
257. NATION & WORLD BRIEFS
258. EXCURSIONS NOT FOR THE TIMID: CRUISE LINES' SHORE TRIPS CATER TO THE MORE ADVENTUROUS PASSENGER.
259. Art of Brazil on show
260. Research and Markets: Obtain Competitive Intelligence With Brazil Food and Drink Report Q4 2008
261. Modern Motifs, With Echoes of Brazil
262. Former Student Radical in Runoff for Mayor of Rio
263. Ex-student radical might become Rio's next mayor
264. Former Student Radical in Runoff for Mayor of Rio: [Foreign Desk]
265. Modern motifs, with echoes of Brazil
266. you must
267. Masks and Art From Colorful Puerto Rican Festival Shown
268. Tradition counts more than beauty at a pageant
269. November 3, 2008 (Page 26 of 32)
270. ADR Report: Latin American Cos Help Shares Close Higher
271. Rio de Janeiro: Koni Stores
272. Power 100
273. Report | Rio Fashion Week
274. As Summit Starts, Emerging Nations Weigh New Clout; Brazil, China, India Step Up In Diplomatic Power Shift
275. Sensation Belgium - 14 March 2009, Ethias Arena Hasselt
276. Examine the World Merchant Shipping Market Brief
277. Sensation Belgium - 14 March 2009, Ethias Arena Hasselt
278. November 20, 2008 (Page 27 of 96)
279. PRESS RELEASE: Shoe Carnival Reports Third Quarter 2008 Results
280. November 20, 2008 (Page 44 of 65)
281. Shoe Carnival Reports Third Quarter 2008 Results
282. GLOBAL CRUISE REGIONS: Gen up on cruise worldwide
283. Research and Markets: Merchant Shipping - Global Strategic Business Report Out Now
284. Research and Markets: Merchant Shipping - Global Strategic Business Report Out Now
285. The Diary: Simon Schama
286. The Diary
287. November 25, 2008 (Page 27 of 28)
288. OppenheimerFunds Inc. 3Q 13F: Holdings As Of Sept 30
289. The worst times can be the best times
290. LSO HEADS THE SHOW International festival tickets on sale Monday
291. Tradition Counts More Than Beauty at a Pageant
292. Why the worst of times can also be the best of times
293. December 2, 2008 (Page 31 of 32)
294. Puerto Rico pageant celebrates a vanished native culture
295. Brazil Shipping Report - Dec 2
296. Tradition Counts More Than Beauty At a Pageant: [National Desk]
297. CARIBBEAN: Tourism faces uncertain outlook
298. CARIBBEAN: Tourism faces uncertain outlook
299. Brazilians Who Take Their Fun Mixed With a Clatter
300. 2008 CUBIC Award Recipients Honored at the 10th Annual Corporate University Week
301. Quincy Jones Delivers Keynote Address
302. Multi-Grammy Winning Producer Quincy Jones to Deliver Keynote Address During South By Southwest Music Conference
303. In Salvador, Amado's exuberance lives on
304. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Names Managing Director for Brazil Operations
305. "Paramount sends Private Jet to Seven Wonders" By Daniel J. Quigley
306. Spare Times: For Children
307. Quincy Jones to Deliver Keynote Address at SXSW Music Conference
308. December 14, 2008 (Page 15 of 187)
309. New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival 2009 lineup released
310. Beer-Loving Brazilians Adapt to the 'Dry Law'; One of the Hemisphere's Strictest Drunken-Driving Measures Shows Mixed Results
311. Italian Makers of Prosecco Seek Recognition
312. December 27, 2008 (Page 47 of 55)
313. Prosecco Wants Its Place in the Sun: [Money and Business/Financial Desk]

Document 1 of 313

Taiwan: Brazil suspends issuing visas to Taiwan tourists

Publication info: BBC Monitoring Asia Pacific ; London [London]03 Jan 2008: 1.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Taipei, Jan 3 (CNA) - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) is striving to communicate with the Taipei-based Brazil Business Centre and the Brazilian authorities in hopes of lifting its unexpected suspension on the issuing of tourist visas to Taiwanese citizens, MOFA's acting spokesperson Phoebe Yeh said Thursday.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Text of report in English by Taiwanese Central News Agency website

[By Rachel Chan]

Taipei, Jan 3 (CNA) - The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) is striving to communicate with the Taipei-based Brazil Business Centre and the Brazilian authorities in hopes of lifting its unexpected suspension on the issuing of tourist visas to Taiwanese citizens, MOFA's acting spokesperson Phoebe Yeh said Thursday.

Yeh said the MOFA's representative office in Brazil has not yet received a response from the Brazilian government since they are still on holiday for the New Year, but it will do all it can in order to resolve the matter as quickly as possible.

"According to information received by the MOFA, the suspension only targets Taiwanese citizens, " she said, stressing that the issuing of visas between Brazil and Taiwan has always proceeded under the principle of reciprocity, and the abruptly unilateral suspension has caused great inconvenience to Taiwanese travellers.

Brazil is in the midst of its peak tourist season and its world-famous carnival is set to take place Feb. 2. Some Taiwanese tour groups have been forced to cancelled trips due to the sudden complication, according to local newspapers.

One official at the Brazil Business Centre told CNA reporter that the representative has no comment on the freeze in issuing tourist visas, adding that the decision was made for a "certain reason" and from now on the process for reviewing visa applications will be stricter. However, business visas are not being affected at the moment.

Credit: Central News Agency website, Taipei, in English 0553 3 Jan 08

Publication title: BBC Monitoring Asia Pacific; London

First page: 1

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 3, 2008

Dateline: TAIWAN

Publisher: BBC Worldwide Limited

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: Business And Economics, Political Science

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

ProQuest document ID: 460864564

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/460864564?accountid=4840

Copyright: Central News Agency website, Taipei, in English 0553 3 Jan 08/BBC Monitoring/(c) BBC

Last updated: 2018-02-20

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 2 of 313

Taiwan foreign ministry urges Brazil to lift tourist visa ban

Publication info: BBC Monitoring Asia Pacific ; London [London]04 Jan 2008: 1.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

"The MOFA's representative office in Brazil has not yet received any response from the Brazilian government, as officials are still on holiday for the New Year," MOFA's acting spokesperson Phoebe Yeh said, adding that MOFA will do its utmost to resolve the matter as quickly as possible. Yeh said that the suspension was unlikely to be the result of intervention by the Chinese government. Yeh stressed that the issuance of visas between Brazil and Taiwan has always proceeded via reciprocity, and the abrupt suspension has been a great inconvenience to Taiwanese travellers. She urged the Central American nation to resume issuing the tourist visas as soon as possible.

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Full text:

Text of report in English by Taiwan News website on 4 January

[Article by Joseph Yeh Taiwan News, staff Reporter , Central News Agency Page 1 from the "Politics" page: "MOFA Says It Is Monitoring Visa Situation in Brazil "]

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said yesterday that it is communicating with the Taipei-based Brazil Business Centre and Brazilian authorities in the hopes that Brazil will lift its unexpected suspension of tourist visas to Taiwanese citizens.

"The MOFA's representative office in Brazil has not yet received any response from the Brazilian government, as officials are still on holiday for the New Year," MOFA's acting spokesperson Phoebe Yeh said, adding that MOFA will do its utmost to resolve the matter as quickly as possible. Yeh said that the suspension was unlikely to be the result of intervention by the Chinese government. Yeh stressed that the issuance of visas between Brazil and Taiwan has always proceeded via reciprocity, and the abrupt suspension has been a great inconvenience to Taiwanese travellers. She urged the Central American nation to resume issuing the tourist visas as soon as possible.

According to the Central News Agency report, an official at the Brazil Business Centre in Taipei said that Taiwan's representative had no comment on the freeze of tourist visas, adding that the decision was made for a "certain reason" and that from now on the process for reviewing visa applications will be stricter.

For now, business visas have not been affected, the official said.

Brazil is in the midst of its peak tourist season and its world-famous carnival is set to take place from February 1st to 5th.

Some Taiwanese tour groups have been forced to cancel trips due to the sudden visa complication. "We are afraid that the cancellation of trips to Brazil, especially during the time of the nation's famous carnival, will cause local tourists great discontent," Li Wen-huan said, general manager of Classic Express Company.

Credit: Taiwan News website, Taipei, in English 4 Jan 08

People: Yeh, Phoebe

Publication title: BBC Monitoring Asia Pacific; London

First page: 1

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 4, 2008

Dateline: TAIWAN

Publisher: BBC Worldwide Limited

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: Business And Economics, Political Science

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

ProQuest document ID: 460624584

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/460624584?accountid=4840

Copyright: Taiwan News website, Taipei, in English 4 Jan 08/BBC Monitoring/(c) BBC

Last updated: 2018-02-23

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 3 of 313

January 6, 2008 (Page 62 of 264)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]06 Jan 2008: 62.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 48

Issue: 256

First page: 62

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 6, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249408020

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249408020?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Jan 6, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-30

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 4 of 313

AROUND OUR WORLD IN 365 DAYS Series: SPECIAL TO THE TIMES: [STATE Edition]

Author: Valeo, Tom

Publication info: St. Petersburg Times ; St. Petersburg, Fla. [St. Petersburg, Fla]06 Jan 2008: 6L.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

PHOTO, Associated Press: Carnival PHOTO, Associated Press: Kilimanjaro PHOTO, Courtesy of WOMADelaide: WOMADelaide poster PHOTO, Getty Images: The Pasifika Festival PHOTO, Austin American- Statesman: South by Southwest PHOTO, Getty Images: Kanamara Matsuri PHOTO, Getty Images: Everest Marathon PHOTO, Getty Images: Bordeaux Wine Festival PHOTO, Associated Press: Montreux Jazz Festival PHOTO, Associated Press: Edinburgh Festival Fringe PHOTO, Reuters: Ganesh Festival PHOTO, Getty Images: Music fan at festival PHOTO, SCOTT KEELER, Times: Covered bridge in autumn New England PHOTO, Associated Press: Balloon fiesta PHOTO, Getty Images: Day of the Dead PHOTO, Associated Press: A whale jumping in the water PHOTO, Associated Press: Tomatina PHOTO, Associated Press: Ganesh Festival PHOTO, Getty Images: Oktoberfest PHOTO, Getty Images: Baby penguins DRAWING, STEVE MADDEN, Times: Man and woman traveling around the globe in airplane unicycles.

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Full text:

Travel implies going to a place, but some of the most exciting trips are to events that would be interesting no matter where they were held. - The most conspicuous example is the Olympics. Although the Games originated in ancient Greece, the modern version migrates to a different city every four years, drawing hoards of visitors wherever it turns up. This summer, the Games will be in Beijing. The next winter Olympics will be in 2010 in Vancouver, British Columbia. - But many events that happen in the same place year after year also merit a visit. Here are a few worthy of your travel calendar - if not for this year, maybe next.

Carnival

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil - Feb. 2-5

Bright costumes, plus skin and samba music galore - some things never change, nor should they. Information: www.rio-carnival.net/ index.php.

Kilimanjaro Marathon

Moshi, Tanzania - March 2

The official marathon and a half-marathon both begin in a sports stadium in Moshi and head up Mount Kilimanjaro - not to the top, of course, but far enough to exhaust even the best runners. The race coincides with the annual migration of more than a million wildebeests into the Serengeti. The winner, by the way, gets 5- million Tanzanian shillings (don't be too quick to start training: thatconverts to about $5,000 U.S.). Information: www.kilimanjaromarathon.com.

WOMADelaide

Adelaide, Australia - March 7-9

This year's lineup for Australia's largest world music and dance festival features about 40 groups, plus music workshops, street theater and other events. Information: www.womadelaide.com.au.

The Pasifika Festival

Auckland, New Zealand - March 7-8

New Zealand offers its answer to WOMADelaide, part of the larger Celebrate Pasifika program that runs through March. Set around a lake, the festival showcases the culture, traditional food, arts and crafts of 10 Pacific Islands. Information: www.aucklandcity.govt.nz.

South by Southwest

Austin, Texas - March 7-16

SXSW used to be a music festival featuring struggling indie bands. Now known as SXSW Conferences and Festivals and featuring music on 50 stages, it also includes a film festival and a five-day trade show for interactive media (Web design, social networking Web sites, etc.). Information: www.sxsw.com.

Kanamara Matsuri (Festival of the Steel Phallus)

Kawasaki, Japan - April 6

This event, held on the first Sunday in April, was created to ward off syphilis. Today it provides bawdy fun, including a gigantic pink penis that is paraded through the streets of the demure neighborhood of Kawasaki, just outside of Tokyo. You'll find photos all over the Web, such as: www.geocities.com/jfchenier.geo; click on the site map and select Kanamara Festival.

Everest Marathon

Katmandu, Nepal - May 14-June 2

If it's a nearly out-of-this-world experience you seek, run a marathon on Mount Everest. Beginning at the Everest Base Camp at 17,572 feet, it's a fierce run to the finish line at the Sherpa capital of Solu Khumbu at 11,305 feet.

The Tenzing Hillary Everest Marathon is scheduled with practice runs over a couple of weeks to give runners time to get used to the thin air. The actual race date is May 29. Information: www.everestmarathon.com.

Bordeaux Wine Festival

Bordeaux, France - June 26-29

The winecentric festival includes vineyard tours, music, dancing, entertainment and, of course, lots and lots of tastings. Keep up with the planning atwww.bordeaux-fete-le-vin.com.

Montreux Jazz Festival

Montreux, Switzerland - July 4-19

For sixteen days, outstanding jazz musicians from around the world perform. In addition to the music played in Auditorium Stravinski and Miles Davis Hall, you can take a boat featuring blues, Brazilian and other types of music out on Lake Geneva. Information: www.montreuxjazz.com. Click on "En" in the upper right corner for the English translation.

Edinburgh Festival Fringe

Edinburgh, Scotland - Aug. 3-25

The play is really the thing every August in Edinburgh as more than 250 venues feature more than 2,000 shows, including theater, music, burlesque and the quirky, out-there stuff that gives the festival its name. Information: www.edfringe.com.

Reading and Leeds Festivals

England - Aug. 22-24

Imagine an annual Woodstock and you have an idea of this mammoth music event. Last year's festival featured the Red Hot Chili Peppers, the Smashing Pumpkins, Jimmy Eat World and dozens of other groups. Track this year's lineups at: www.readingfestival.com or www.leedsfestival.com.

Burning Man, USA

Rock City, Nevada - Aug. 25-Sept. 1

What began as an offbeat gathering of hippies has become a must- see festival that annually attracts 30,000 creatively clothed people to a remote spot in the Nevada desert near Rock City. The event culminates with the torching of a towering effigy of a man. This year's theme: "American Dream." Information: www.burningman.com.

Tomatina

Bunol, Spain - Aug. 27

The world's biggest food fight occurs when about 20,000 people fling 90,000 pounds of tomatoes at each other. The craziness began in the 1940s. You'd be wise to bring goggles. Information: www.tomatina.com.

Ganesh Festival

Bombay, India - Aug. 25-Sept. 5

The birthday of Lord Ganesh, an elephant-headed Hindu god, is celebrated with music, food and dancing. The culmination of the event is the parade of Ganeshes carried into the sea by thousands of celebrants. Information: festivals.iloveindia.com.

Oktoberfest

Munich, Germany - Sept. 20-Oct. 5

Six German breweries will serve upwards of 6-million visitors during the annual beer bash. When all the tents are full, you can have a beer with, oh, about 100,000 new friends. Information: www.muenchen.de. Click on the British flag at upper left for the English translation, then click on "Oktoberfest."

Fall foliage

New England - September and October

Tourists tend to visit museums, historic sites and other destinations full of culture and significance. In New England, tourists visit leaves - but what leaves! In late September and October the hills are alive with blazing reds and oranges (with a little green for contrast). You can hike, bike, walk, bus or simply drive to see them. Information: www.discovernewengland.org and click on "New England's Fall Foliage."

Balloon Fiesta

Albuquerque, N.M. - Oct. 4-12

Every day during the festivalflocks of brightly colored and oddly shaped hot-air balloons fill the sky. There are races and other activities, including a chainsaw-carving competition. Information: www.balloonfiesta.com.

Day of the Dead

Oaxaca, Mexico - Nov. 1

Every year throughout Mexico the dead are reunited with their relatives on All Saints Day, Nov. 1, and All Souls Day, Nov. 2. But the people of Oaxaca go all out, filling cemeteries with altars at the graves of relatives. Numerous tour groups descend on Oaxaca for Dia de los Muertos, with some adding a unique spin, such as an archaeological tour (www.farhorizon.com, click on "Mexico and Central America" and scroll to "El Dia de los Muertos")and even a kite festival (www.drachen.org, click on "DF Projects/Special Events." ).

Antarctic cruises

Late fall through winter

Antarctic cruises have become enormously popular thanks to March of the Penguins and global warming (see it before it's gone). Cruises begin in late fall and continue through the winter (which is summer in the Southern Hemisphere). You won't get close to the breeding grounds on a cruise ship, but judging from the number of pictures of penguins posted on the Web by Antarctic tourists, you'll spot plenty tuxedoed birds. Information: www.cruises.about.com/od/ antarcticacruises.

Whale watching

Pacific Ocean

December and January; March and April

Late in the year, you can catch whales migrating south from Alaska to Baja California. In spring, you can watch them return north. Since whales tend to hug the coastline, they are visible from land (if you have a pair of good binoculars), but countless whale- watching boat tours help people get up close and personal. Good lookout points are Depoe Bay, Ore. (www.whalespoken.org) or Point Reyes, Calif. (www.areaparks.com, click on California, then Point Reyes). The Dana Point (Calif.) Festival of Whales is March 1-2 and 8-9. Information: www.dpfestivalofwhales.com.

Whale watching in Hawaii: From Christmas through mid April whales are plentiful and readily visible from Maui's verdant hillsides. McGregor Point Lookout on Route 30 is particularly reliable, but many boat tours stand ready to take you closer. For starters, try the Pacific Whale Foundation atwww.pacificwhale.org.

Illustration

Caption: PHOTO, Associated Press: Carnival PHOTO, Associated Press: Kilimanjaro PHOTO, Courtesy of WOMADelaide: WOMADelaide poster PHOTO, Getty Images: The Pasifika Festival PHOTO, Austin American- Statesman: South by Southwest PHOTO, Getty Images: Kanamara Matsuri PHOTO, Getty Images: Everest Marathon PHOTO, Getty Images: Bordeaux Wine Festival PHOTO, Associated Press: Montreux Jazz Festival PHOTO, Associated Press: Edinburgh Festival Fringe PHOTO, Reuters: Ganesh Festival PHOTO, Getty Images: Music fan at festival PHOTO, SCOTT KEELER, Times: Covered bridge in autumn New England PHOTO, Associated Press: Balloon fiesta PHOTO, Getty Images: Day of the Dead PHOTO, Associated Press: A whale jumping in the water PHOTO, Associated Press: Tomatina PHOTO, Associated Press: Ganesh Festival PHOTO, Getty Images: Oktoberfest PHOTO, Getty Images: Baby penguins DRAWING, STEVE MADDEN, Times: Man and woman traveling around the globe in airplane unicycles.

Publication title: St. Petersburg Times; St. Petersburg, Fla.

Pages: 6L

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 6, 2008

Section: LOCAL/REGIONAL (LCR)

Publisher: Times Publishing Company

Place of publication: St. Petersburg, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, St. Petersburg, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: NEWSPAPER

ProQuest document ID: 264219488

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/264219488?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Times Publishing Co. Jan 6, 2008

Last updated: 2012-02-25

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 5 of 313

Spread your wings

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Gainesville Sun ; Gainesville, Fla. [Gainesville, Fla]06 Jan 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Rimini's nine-mile stretch of sand along the Adriatic Coast once attracted holiday crowds. But the birthplace of Fellini has been reborn as Italy's bling party capital, drawing style-conscious Romans to its raging club scene, designer hotels, most notably the new DuoMo hotel (www.duomohotel.com) designed by Ron Arad.

Since gaining independence in 1975, Mozambique has moved from a war-torn society to one of Africa's economic success stories. Now its 1,500 miles of pristine coastline is being fashioned into a "fair trade" tourist destination. High-end lodges with low-environmental impact are being built along the Bazaruto Archipelago, home to endangered sea cows, staghorn coral and mangrove forests. Farther north, the Guludo Beach Lodge (www.guludo.com) offers nine luxurious tented bandas along the beach, with proceeds going back to the local village.

Lombok, a low-key Indonesian island east of Bali, is coming out of the shadows. With Bali oversaturated with villas and designer restaurants, tourists are hopping on short flights to find less-crowded beaches, a bigger volcano and better surfing. It's also cheaper - not that visitors are slumming it. There's already an Oberoi (www.oberoilombok.com), and other high-end hotels are on the way.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

What's on your travel itinerary for the new year? From a luxury resort on remote Easter Island to a climate tour of the Northwest Passage to Detroit (where a handful of hotels are being transformed into haute destinations), the travel choices for global nomads have never been more varied.

28. Rimini, Italy

Rimini's nine-mile stretch of sand along the Adriatic Coast once attracted holiday crowds. But the birthplace of Fellini has been reborn as Italy's bling party capital, drawing style-conscious Romans to its raging club scene, designer hotels, most notably the new DuoMo hotel (www.duomohotel.com) designed by Ron Arad.

29. Malawi

Blame Madonna. Safarigoers tended to overlook Malawi, but that has changed since she began her effort to adopt a 1-year-old boy from this tiny African country that lies within the Great Rift Valley. Next July, the luxury lodge Pumulani (www.pumulani.com) is set to open 10 villas on spectacular Lake Malawi, home to rare cichlids and pied kingfishers.

30. Roat

The sleepy Honduran island of Roatn, known for scuba diving and fishing, is waking up with big plans, with both Royal Caribbean and Carnival building new cruise terminals there, and the Westin Resort & Spa Roatan scheduled to open in mid-2008.

31. Mozambique

Since gaining independence in 1975, Mozambique has moved from a war-torn society to one of Africa's economic success stories. Now its 1,500 miles of pristine coastline is being fashioned into a "fair trade" tourist destination. High-end lodges with low-environmental impact are being built along the Bazaruto Archipelago, home to endangered sea cows, staghorn coral and mangrove forests. Farther north, the Guludo Beach Lodge (www.guludo.com) offers nine luxurious tented bandas along the beach, with proceeds going back to the local village.

32. Kuwait City

Yes, there's a war next door. But that's not preventing Kuwait City, a bustling metropolis on the Persian Gulf, from welcoming new air service (direct United flights from Dulles Airport near Washington start this month), playing host to international boat shows, or opening a slate of opulent hotels. The most talked-about is the Hotel Missoni, the first of several for the fashion house. Designed by the Italian architect Matteo Thun, it is to open next year.

33. Verbier

The Swiss ski village of Verbier will get decidedly more upper class when the Lodge (www.thelodge.virgin.com), the newest addition to Richard Branson's globe-trotting playgrounds, opens at the Alpine resort next month. The nine-bedroom chalet features a mini-ice rink, indoor pool and 24-hour driver - all for as little as Pounds 35,250 a week, well over $70,000.

34. Lombok

Lombok, a low-key Indonesian island east of Bali, is coming out of the shadows. With Bali oversaturated with villas and designer restaurants, tourists are hopping on short flights to find less-crowded beaches, a bigger volcano and better surfing. It's also cheaper - not that visitors are slumming it. There's already an Oberoi (www.oberoilombok.com), and other high-end hotels are on the way.

35. Northwest Passage

Notwithstanding November's sinking of an Antarctic cruise ship, climate tourism is heating up. And few places are warming up faster than the Northwest Passage, the Arctic sea route over Canada. Adventure Life Voyages (www.alvoyages.com), for one, is already booking cruises for its Northwest Passage tour next August, with prices from $4,600 a person.

36. Easter Island

Remote Easter Island, famous for its enigmatic Moai statues, is getting its first luxury resort: Explora en Rapa Nui (www.explora.com). The 30-room resort combines futuristic pod-like design with natural materials like native volcanic rock and Chilean rauli wood, and offers seamless views of the middle of the Pacific Ocean. A three-night stay for two people starts at $3,588.

37. Virgin Gorda

Virgin Gorda, one of the lesser-known British Virgin Islands, is raising its profile. The Aquamare (www.villaaquamare.com) is set to open in March with three villas measuring 8,000 square feet, with in-villa spa treatments, observation decks and weekly rates starting at $12,500.

38. Namibia

In the 17 years since Namibia gained independence from South Africa, this desert country on the West African coast carved out an early eco-tourist niche, with government-run campsites like Namutoni (www.nwr.com.na) in the Etosha National Park. Now the country is going eco-deluxe. (Might it have something to do with Brangelina?) Many lodges have just been refurbished with stylish decor and matching rates. And the private sector is following suit; Kempinski Hotels is planning five luxury hotels to open in the next few years.

39. San Francisco

When the California Academy of Sciences (www.calacademy.org) opens next fall in Golden Gate Park, it won't just be a stunning architectural addition to San Francisco. The $500 million building, designed by the Pritzker Prize winner Renzo Piano, will feature a 2.5-acre living roof covered with native plants and aims to be the greenest museum in the world.

40. Detroit

Historically crime-ridden Detroit may not spring to mind as a hot tourist spot, but don't tell that to the city's bullish hoteliers. Newcomers include the MGM Grand Detroit (www.mgmgranddetroit.com), the MotorCity Casino Hotel (www.motorcitycasino.com) in an old Wonder Bread factory and the historic Book Cadillac Hotel, being transformed into a Westin (www.westinbookcadillac.com).

Plus, the Detroit Institute of Arts (www.dia.org) just reopened after a $158 million renovation.

Coming in Daybreak

Read more about these destinations in Travel & Leisure:

Jan. 13: Itacar, Brazil; Kilimanjaro; Algeria; San Diego; Malaga; Puerto Plata; London; Vietnam; Essaouira; Las Vegas; Barossa Valley, Australia; Tokaj, Hungary; New York

Credit: The Associated Press

Publication title: Gainesville Sun; Gainesville, Fla.

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 6, 2008

Section: NEWS

Publisher: Halifax Media Group

Place of publication: Gainesville, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Gainesville, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 01634925

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 390545803

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/390545803?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 New York Times Company)

Last updated: 2012-10-12

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 6 of 313

Bradesco Seguros e Previdencia; Bradesco Seguros Christmas Tree is the Year-End Attraction in Brazil

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Global Warming Focus ; Atlanta [Atlanta]07 Jan 2008: 26.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Biodiesel, Bradesco Seguros e Previdencia, Carbon Dioxide, Climate Change, Co2 Emissions, Computers, Dancing, Electronics, Energy, Entertainment, Global Warming, Government, Greenhouse Gases, Leisure, Light Bulb, Oil & Gas, Politics, Stained Glass, United Nations.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

The third most important event in Rio de Janeiro's official calendar, after Carnival and New Year's Eve, is the Bradesco Seguros e Previdencia Christmas Tree, which has floated in the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon in Rio de Janeiro for the past 12 consecutive seasons, reaching a height of 85 meters. Its record for greatest height has won it a new title in the Guinness Book of Records as the tallest floating Christmas tree in the world. It weighs 530 tons on an 810 square meter base made up of 11 floats, in the middle of the lagoon beneath the statue of Christ the Redeemer, which has been chosen as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

The theme "A symbol of hope for the Brazilian family" presents a scene inspired by the stained glass windows of Brazilian cathedrals. 2.9 million miniature light bulbs and 37,000 meters of strings of lights cover the eight surfaces, illuminated by four moving spotlights. The water ballet, consisting of water in motion, lights and colors, completes the spectacle. Jets of water shoot up from 48 pumps installed at the base and reach 20 meters in height, illuminated by the colored lights.

A variety of leisure options along the shore enhance the charm of this Christmas symbol even further, which can be visited until January 6. Decorated kiosks serving local cuisine, together with live entertainment, bring together those who seek amusement outdoors in a climate of peace and harmony.

More than 100,000 people attended the tree's inauguration (see photo) along the shores of the lagoon. For over five minutes, the public thrilled to the shifts in scenery, heralded by fireworks and the dancing waters.

The energy consumed by the tree is supplied by seven generators powered by biodiesel, with a total capacity of 2,515 kVA. A computerized telemetry system ensures their optimal use.

The newest development in the 2007 edition is the neutralization of carbon (CO2) emissions with the planting of native trees, through a partnership between Bradesco Seguros e Previdencia and the Fundacao SOS Mata Atlantica. The calculation of emissions includes not only the set-up, display and dismantling of the tree, but also the amount of fuel consumed by vehicles used for these operations, as well as the transportation of staff -- by bus or plane -- to the event. The number of trees to be planted by Mata Atlantica is to be determined based on standards established by the United Nations International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

Keywords: Biodiesel, Bradesco Seguros e Previdencia, Carbon Dioxide, Climate Change, Co2 Emissions, Computers, Dancing, Electronics, Energy, Entertainment, Global Warming, Government, Greenhouse Gases, Leisure, Light Bulb, Oil & Gas, Politics, Stained Glass, United Nations.

This article was prepared by Global Warming Focus editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2008, Global Warming Focus via VerticalNews.com.

Subject: Global warming; Stained glass; Climate change; Carbon dioxide; Christmas; Greenhouse gases

Publication title: Global Warming Focus; Atlanta

First page: 26

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 7, 2008

Publisher: NewsRx

Place of publication: Atlanta

Country of publication: United States, Atlanta

Publication subject: Environmental Studies

ISSN: 1945-7847

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: Expanded Reporting

ProQuest document ID: 204643457

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/204643457?accountid=4840

Copyright: (c)Copyright 2008, Global Warming Focus via VerticalNews.com

Last updated: 2011-06-14

Database: SciTech Premium Collection

Document 7 of 313

Bradesco Seguros e Previdencia; Bradesco Seguros Christmas Tree is the Year-End Attraction in Brazil

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: The Business of Global Warming ; Atlanta [Atlanta]07 Jan 2008: 23.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Biodiesel, Bradesco Seguros e Previdencia, Carbon Dioxide, Climate Change, Co2 Emissions, Computers, Dancing, Electronics, Energy, Entertainment, Global Warming, Government, Greenhouse Gases, Leisure, Light Bulb, Oil & Gas, Politics, Stained Glass, United Nations.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

The third most important event in Rio de Janeiro's official calendar, after Carnival and New Year's Eve, is the Bradesco Seguros e Previdencia Christmas Tree, which has floated in the Rodrigo de Freitas Lagoon in Rio de Janeiro for the past 12 consecutive seasons, reaching a height of 85 meters. Its record for greatest height has won it a new title in the Guinness Book of Records as the tallest floating Christmas tree in the world. It weighs 530 tons on an 810 square meter base made up of 11 floats, in the middle of the lagoon beneath the statue of Christ the Redeemer, which has been chosen as one of the New Seven Wonders of the World.

The theme "A symbol of hope for the Brazilian family" presents a scene inspired by the stained glass windows of Brazilian cathedrals. 2.9 million miniature light bulbs and 37,000 meters of strings of lights cover the eight surfaces, illuminated by four moving spotlights. The water ballet, consisting of water in motion, lights and colors, completes the spectacle. Jets of water shoot up from 48 pumps installed at the base and reach 20 meters in height, illuminated by the colored lights.

A variety of leisure options along the shore enhance the charm of this Christmas symbol even further, which can be visited until January 6. Decorated kiosks serving local cuisine, together with live entertainment, bring together those who seek amusement outdoors in a climate of peace and harmony.

More than 100,000 people attended the tree's inauguration (see photo) along the shores of the lagoon. For over five minutes, the public thrilled to the shifts in scenery, heralded by fireworks and the dancing waters.

The energy consumed by the tree is supplied by seven generators powered by biodiesel, with a total capacity of 2,515 kVA. A computerized telemetry system ensures their optimal use.

The newest development in the 2007 edition is the neutralization of carbon (CO2) emissions with the planting of native trees, through a partnership between Bradesco Seguros e Previdencia and the Fundacao SOS Mata Atlantica. The calculation of emissions includes not only the set-up, display and dismantling of the tree, but also the amount of fuel consumed by vehicles used for these operations, as well as the transportation of staff -- by bus or plane -- to the event. The number of trees to be planted by Mata Atlantica is to be determined based on standards established by the United Nations International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC).

Keywords: Biodiesel, Bradesco Seguros e Previdencia, Carbon Dioxide, Climate Change, Co2 Emissions, Computers, Dancing, Electronics, Energy, Entertainment, Global Warming, Government, Greenhouse Gases, Leisure, Light Bulb, Oil & Gas, Politics, Stained Glass, United Nations.

This article was prepared by The Business of Global Warming editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2008, The Business of Global Warming via VerticalNews.com.

Subject: Global warming; Stained glass; Climate change; Carbon dioxide; Christmas

Publication title: The Business of Global Warming; Atlanta

First page: 23

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 7, 2008

Publisher: NewsRx

Place of publication: Atlanta

Country of publication: United States, Atlanta

Publication subject: Business And Economics, Environmental Studies

ISSN: 1945-5917

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: Expanded Reporting

ProQuest document ID: 217512033

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/217512033?accountid=4840

Copyright: (c)Copyright 2008, The Business of Global Warming via VerticalNews.com

Last updated: 2011-06-13

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 8 of 313

January 9, 2008 (Page 8 of 80)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]09 Jan 2008: 8.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 13

First page: 8

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 9, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2225914728

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2225914728?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Jan 9, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-16

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 9 of 313

January 10, 2008 (Page 6 of 112)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]10 Jan 2008: 6.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 14

First page: 6

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 10, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2226002771

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2226002771?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Jan 10, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-16

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 10 of 313

Universal McCann gains #1m Brazilian tourism brief

Publication info: Marketing Week ; London (Jan 10, 2008): 13.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Universal McCann has been awarded the L1m media planning and buying account for the Brazilian Tourist Board. The agency won the business without a pitch. The account was handled in house, although Universal McCann has previously worked with the organisation on a project basis. The agency is now developing a campaign that aims to raise awareness of the country as a tourist destination. It will run across outdoor, print and online and will break next month.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

Universal McCann has been awarded the pound 1m media planning and buying account for the Brazilian Tourist Board. The agency won the business without a pitch.

The account was handled in house, although Universal McCann has previously worked with the organisation on a project basis.

The agency is now developing a campaign that aims to raise awareness of the country as a tourist destination. It will run across outdoor, print and online and will break next month.

The campaign aims to show that Brazil is more than just the Rio Carnival and will highlight the country's musical heritage, its beauty spots, such as the Amazon rainforest, its beaches and the diversity of its food and culture.

The creative account is handled by McCann Erickson Brazil and is not affected by the review.

Last year, the tourist body focused on supporting travel agents in a bid to boost visitor numbers. It launched an ad campaign and held roadshows and training programmes for agents interested in selling Brazil as a tourist destination.

The country's Ministry of Tourism also set up a travel trade office in the UK to work alongside the tourist body in a bid to increase visitor numbers following the launch of charter flights to the country.

Brazil has seen a rise in popularity with British holidaymakers, with the number of UK visitors increasing from over 125,000 in 1999 to nearly 170,000 in 2005.

Copyright: Centaur Communications Ltd. and licensors

Subject: Tourism; Media planning & buying; Advertising agencies; Advertising accounts

Location: Brazil

Company / organization: Name: Universal McCann; NAICS: 541810

Classification: 8350: Transportation & travel industry; 7200: Advertising; 8301: Advertising agencies; 9173: Latin America; 9000: Short article

Publication title: Marketing Week; London

Pages: 13

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 10, 2008

Publisher: Centaur Communications Ltd.

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: Business And Economics--Marketing And Purchasing

ISSN: 01419285

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

Document feature: Photographs

ProQuest document ID: 228188279

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/228188279?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright (c) 2008. Centaur Communications Limited. Reproduced withpermission of the copyright owner. Further reproduction ordistribution is prohibited without permission.)

Last updated: 2017-11-10

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 11 of 313

January 13, 2008 (Page 60 of 221)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]13 Jan 2008: 60.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 17

First page: 60

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 13, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2225978155

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2225978155?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Jan 13, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-16

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 12 of 313

January 13, 2008 (Page 62 of 274)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]13 Jan 2008: 62.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 48

Issue: 263

First page: 62

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 13, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249201402

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249201402?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Jan 13, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 13 of 313

Find your fun at Brazil's carnival; Feel free to watch the festivities, party in the streets or, if you dare, join the parade.: [FINAL Edition]

Author: Astor, Michael

Publication info: Orlando Sentinel ; Orlando, Fla. [Orlando, Fla]13 Jan 2008: K4.

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Abstract:

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil -- Everyone knows Rio de Janeiro's carnival is supposed to be the greatest party on Earth, but to many, the hordes of sweaty, scantily clad bodies on display can be as intimidating as they are inviting. The locals have barely recovered from their New Year's hangovers and are already preparing for the five-day-long, no-holds-barred pre-Lenten bash that sweeps over this seaside city like a tidal wave.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil -- Everyone knows Rio de Janeiro's carnival is supposed to be the greatest party on Earth, but to many, the hordes of sweaty, scantily clad bodies on display can be as intimidating as they are inviting.

The locals have barely recovered from their New Year's hangovers and are already preparing for the five-day-long, no-holds-barred pre-Lenten bash that sweeps over this seaside city like a tidal wave.

For the carnival, which takes place during the first five days of February this year, there are basically three ways to celebrate: party in the street, watch the Samba parade from the stands or -- for the truly fleet-footed and daring -- dance in the parade itself.

Most of the larger samba groups allow tourists to join their contingents as long as they wear the costumes, known as "fantasias." The groups sell them to revelers via the Internet and at the city's larger hotels, delivering them to the customer's doorstep.

The elaborate costumes can cost anywhere from less than $300 to more than $1,400, and provide revelers with a very different perspective.

The upside of parading is the thrill of singing and dancing under the stadium's bright lights before a huge crowd.

The downside: Once the parade is over, revelers are left standing outside the stadium in a brilliant, slightly silly-looking getup, with few options aside from returning to the hotel to watch the rest of the parade on TV.

"In my opinion it's one of the most fantastic celebrations on Earth. If you've seen anything about it on television or in print, it's all that but 20 times better," says Arthur Martinez, a retired U.S. Postal Service executive from Indio, Calif. "It takes about seven minutes to get into the mood. The samba is just so infectious.

"You don't have to learn to samba, but it's a good idea if you do," explains Martinez, who got his first taste of Rio's carnival back in 1978.

Brazilians like foreigners to at least try to dance. Of course, they laugh at all the misguided footwork, but it's better to loosen up than to be wallflowers.

A capacity crowd of 88,500 watches from the stands of the Sambadrome stadium, where top-tier samba groups present their elaborate parades, the centerpiece of Brazil's annual carnival celebrations.

But most of the dancing goes on below, on the stadium's nearly half-mile-long runway, where the city's top 12 samba groups each mount 80-minute spectacles featuring hundreds of drummers, thousands of dancers and about a dozen over-the-top parade floats.

A cheap and easy way to celebrate is to take part in Rio's street carnival.

No tickets or costumes are required to fall in behind one of the many "bandas" and "blocos" that ply the city's streets during carnival time.

"Bandas" play hits of carnivals past, while "blocos" write a new song for each carnival which they repeat endlessly.

The Banda de Ipanema -- one of the most famous carnival bands and a favorite of the city's gay community -- parades along Ipanema beach on carnival Saturday and Tuesday -- this year Feb. 2 and 5.

Fans of the Carmelitas bloco like to dress as nuns -- though habits are not required. The group parades on Friday night, attracting a good-sized crowd to the hilltop Santa Teresa neighborhood.

And the Cordao de Bola Preta, one of the city's most traditional carnival bands, packs the city's center on Saturday morning, making it a favorite for families with young children.

Illustration

PHOTO: Visitors to carnival try to learn samba moves. The dance shows are the centerpiece of the celebration.
SILVIA IZQUIERDO/THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
.
BOX:
IF YOU GO . . .
* Brazil Carnival Tourism: braziltourism .org/carnival.html or 1-800-727-2945. Parades, musical celebrations and other events typically start Friday, Feb. 1, and run through Tuesday, Feb. 5.

Credit: Michael Astor, The Associated Press

Publication title: Orlando Sentinel; Orlando, Fla.

Pages: K4

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 13, 2008

Section: TRAVEL

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Orlando, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Orlando, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: NEWSPAPER

ProQuest document ID: 284122990

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/284122990?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by The Orlando Sentinel)

Last updated: 2017-11-05

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 14 of 313

Get a bellyful of rice and beans before jumping with Jean

Author: McNamara, Chris

Publication info: Chicago Tribune ; Chicago, Ill. [Chicago, Ill]18 Jan 2008: 18.

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Abstract:

Unlike those dining around me, I declined to wear a string of shiny beads, seeing as how this was a Wednesday night in January in Chicago, not Mardi Gras in New Orleans or Carnival in Rio de Janeiro -- or a Wyclef Jean show.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

"Have you ever been to Carnival in Brazil or Trinidad," replies Wyclef Jean when asked what to expect at his upcoming Chicago performance at House of Blues. "My show is basically like Carnival coming to your city. If you come to a Wyclef show, you're going to be jumping for three hours."

Three hours is a long show, but if anybody can keep it interesting, it's Jean, whose music ricochets from hip-hop to folk, reggae to salsa to rock, and oftentimes is an amalgam of those styles all at once. On this tour, the former Fugee is backed by a full band, bolstered by a successful new album -- "Carnival II: Memoirs of an Immigrant" -- and re-energized.

"When you're having a dry period, sometimes you question your relevance, not on the music, but on the trends and how things are changing," he says. "So when the Shakira record came out" -- "Hips Don't Lie," on which Wyclef dueted -- "and I was told that it broke Michael Jackson's and Elvis Presley's record for airplay, it put a battery pack on my back and reminded me that I am relevant. I became a 14-year-old kid again."

His native Haiti shaped his musical mind-set, his activist worldview and -- for our purposes here -- his palate.

Haitian food is as diverse as Jean's songs -- a jumble of ingredients, spices, cooking styles and regional influences.

"Our food is fish and rice and beans and vegetables all mixed together," he explains. "There's a lot of Caribbean influence, a lot of spices and seasonings. What makes Haitian food different is that it's organic. If a Haitian house is serving chicken, it's fresh chicken."

His favorite Haitian dishes include legume (a stew) and red snapper. Regrettably, there are few local options for Haitian fare.

"I don't think there is a Haitian restaurant in Chicago," says Jean Auguste, who is with the Consulate General of the Republic of Haiti in Chicago. He recommends Evanston's Me Voici (741 W. Howard, 847-869-7172), where owner Marejo Mardy takes pride in her goat with rice and beans.

So we sought out red snapper near the House of Blues and didn't have to look far. Redfish (400 N. State St. 312-467-1600) is a stone's throw from the venue. The Redfish menu is Creole, but there are strong similarities between the grub of New Orleans and Port-au-Prince, thanks to the French influence on both cities.

I dived into a horseradish-crusted fillet of red snapper with steamed vegetables and sweet-potato fries ($20), washing it down with a Bud in lieu of Wyclef's favorite Haitian brew, Prestige.

Unlike those dining around me, I declined to wear a string of shiny beads, seeing as how this was a Wednesday night in January in Chicago, not Mardi Gras in New Orleans or Carnival in Rio de Janeiro -- or a Wyclef Jean show.

WYCLEF JEAN'S CARNIVAL HOUSE TOUR WITH LYFE JENNINGS

Carnival in Chicago

When: 9 p.m. Wednesday

Where: House of Blues, 329 N. Dearborn St.

Price: $32-$34.50 (18+); 312-559-1212

----------

onthetown@tribune.com

Credit: By Chris McNamara, Special to the Tribune

Illustration

Caption: Photo (color): Haitian native Wyclef Jean's favorite dishes from his homeland include legume (a stew) and red snapper.

Subject: Restaurants

Location: Chicago Illinois

People: Jean, Wyclef

Publication title: Chicago Tribune; Chicago, Ill.

Pages: 18

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 18, 2008

column: DINNER AND A SHOW

Section: On The Town

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Chicago, Ill.

Country of publication: United States, Chicago, Ill.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 10856706

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 420656586

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/420656586?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by the Chicago Tribune)

Last updated: 2017-11-15

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 15 of 313

January 20, 2008 (Page 68 of 211)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]20 Jan 2008: 68.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 24

First page: 68

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 20, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2226393518

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2226393518?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Jan 20, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-17

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 16 of 313

January 20, 2008 (Page 67 of 211)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]20 Jan 2008: 67.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 24

First page: 67

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 20, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2226393844

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2226393844?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Jan 20, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-17

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 17 of 313

January 20, 2008 (Page 76 of 312)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]20 Jan 2008: 76.

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Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 48

Issue: 270

First page: 76

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 20, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249379536

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249379536?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Jan 20, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-30

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 18 of 313

After the Excess, the Insects

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: The Washington Post ; Washington, D.C. [Washington, D.C]20 Jan 2008: M.10.

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Abstract:

Titled "Quarta-Feira de Cinzas/Epilogue" ("Ash Wednesday/Epilogue," in English), the five-minute video, shot in extreme close-up by filmmaker Cao Guimaraes, shows a forest floor littered with confetti.

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Full text:

Video art has the unfair reputation for being tough and abstruse stuff, but so far the works in the Hirshhorn Museum's Black Box series have mostly been crowd-pleasers. The latest piece, by well-known Brazilian artist Rivane Neuenschwander, has audiences chuckling. Titled "Quarta-Feira de Cinzas/Epilogue" ("Ash Wednesday/Epilogue," in English), the five-minute video, shot in extreme close-up by filmmaker Cao Guimaraes, shows a forest floor littered with confetti. (Ash Wednesday is the day after Brazil's famous Carnival parties.) As we watch, various ant species begin to gather up the brightly colored dots, fighting over them and finally dragging them down into their nests. Our waste becomes their treasure; our play is their hard work.

How did you get the ants to clean up the confetti?

I had to prepare a little sauce for them! I think I tried both pork fat -- like a salami flavor -- and honey mixed with water. They pick up a piece of paper because they're attracted by the smell, and then they carry it to the nest. But there are also some ants who will pick up the paper just to clear a path. I have a brother who's a scientist, so he often tells me what animals like and how they will interact with certain kinds of smells and food.

There's a very important reference in literature here, in the book "Macunaima" by Mario de Andrade, to leaf-cutter ants. One of his sentences is, "Lots of leaf-cutter ants, and little health, are the evils of Brazil." It's a very famous quote in Brazilian culture.

In the United States or Europe, I think confetti is used for other events, too, but here it's mainly for Carnival. There's a sense that you have something colorful and playful like confetti, but in contraposition you have those ants working hard. The ants are kind of carrying the leftovers of a celebration. There's Carnival, and then afterward, the melancholic aspect of the last day of Carnival -- it's the sort of contradictory feelings that we have here in Brazil.

--Interview conducted and condensed by Blake Gopnik

Quarta-Feira de Cinzas/Epilogue, through April 20 at the Smithsonian's Hirshhorn Museum, Independence Avenue at Seventh Street SW. Free, open daily 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Call 202-633-1000 or visit www.hirshhorn.si.edu.

Publication title: The Washington Post; Washington, D.C.

Pages: M.10

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 20, 2008

Section: SHOW

Publisher: WP Company LLC d/b/a The Washington Post

Place of publication: Washington, D.C.

Country of publication: United States, Washington, D.C.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 01908286

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 410202585

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/410202585?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright The Washington Post Company Jan 20, 2008

Last updated: 2017-11-02

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 19 of 313

Richemont doubts hit BAT: [ASIA EDITION]

Publication info: Financial Times ; London (UK) [London (UK)]24 Jan 2008: 28.

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Abstract:

Presenting third-quarter results, the world's second biggest luxury goods company, which has listings in Switzerland and South Africa, said it would clarify its intentions for the BAT holding in the next few months. Richemont wants to sell to avoid higher taxes.

As the US crude price dropped Dollars 2 a barrel on recessions fears, Royal Dutch Shell fell 5.9 per cent to Pounds 16.90 while BP lost 4.4 per cent to 503 1/2p. Xstrata provided the session's speculative feature. Its shares gained 2.4 per cent to Pounds 33.60 on late rumours that Brazil's Vale was working flat out on a Pounds 40 a share offer.

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Full text:

By NEIL HUME and ROBERT ORR

British American Tobacco was under pressure amid concerns Richemont was set to dispose of its 19 per cent stake in the Lucky Strike cigarette maker.

Presenting third-quarter results, the world's second biggest luxury goods company, which has listings in Switzerland and South Africa, said it would clarify its intentions for the BAT holding in the next few months. Richemont wants to sell to avoid higher taxes.

Those comments sent BAT shares down 5.2 per cent at a three- month low of Pounds 17.08.

In the wider market, it was another extremely volatile session. The FTSE 100 traded in a 326 points range before coming to rest 130.8 points, or 2.3 per cent, lower at 5,609.3. The FTSE 250 dipped 119.1 points, or 1.2 per cent, to 9,493.7.

Traders said the market had been spooked by further losses on Wall Street and a very weak performance from the heavyweight oil sector.

As the US crude price dropped Dollars 2 a barrel on recessions fears, Royal Dutch Shell fell 5.9 per cent to Pounds 16.90 while BP lost 4.4 per cent to 503 1/2p. Xstrata provided the session's speculative feature. Its shares gained 2.4 per cent to Pounds 33.60 on late rumours that Brazil's Vale was working flat out on a Pounds 40 a share offer.

Prudential firmed 1.2 per cent to 626p on reports that Ping An, the Chinese insurer planning to raise Dollars 22bn as a war chest for overseas acquisitions, was looking to buy a significant holding in the company.

Talk that Spain's Santander could return with another offer saw Alliance & Leicester rise 3.9 per cent to 741 1/2p.

Transport stocks were also in demand thanks to the falling price.

Carnival , the cruise ship operator, gained 3.8 per cent to Pounds 20.44, British Airways added 4.2 per cent to 308 1/2p and Stagecoach rose 2.9 per cent to 240 3/4p.

Broadcaster ITV dropped 4.1 per cent to 70.7p after Bear Stearns reiterated its "underperform" rating on concerns about the outlook for advertising spending.

People: Hume, Neil

Publication title: Financial Times; London (UK)

Pages: 28

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 24, 2008

Section: MARKETS

Publisher: The Financial Times Limited

Place of publication: London (UK)

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London (UK)

Publication subject: Business And Economics--Banking And Finance, Political Science

ISSN: 03071766

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: NEWSPAPER

ProQuest document ID: 250090629

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/250090629?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright Financial Times Ltd. 2008. All rights reserved.)

Last updated: 2017-11-14

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 20 of 313

BAT struggles for air on fears over Richemont stake: [LONDON 1ST EDITION]

Publication info: Financial Times ; London (UK) [London (UK)]24 Jan 2008: 38.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

He said Richemont would probably give its BAT stake to its shareholders and then BAT would take a secondary listing on the Johannesburg stock exchange, to "limit" selling pressure.

"Xstrata provides an instant diversification 'plug and play' for Vale," Citigroup said in a note to clients. The broker said that in the current environment a cash deal was unlikely but Vale could opt for an equityfinanced deal and then take a listing in the UK.

Catlin , the underwriter and reinsurer, added 6.4 per cent to 348p after being added to the "conviction buy" list at Goldman Sachs. Catlin shares have dropped 22 per cent in the past month because of concerns about the quality of its US bond portfolio. "We believe the stock has already priced in a lot of risk perception, which appears exaggerated," the broker said.

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Full text:

By NEIL HUME and ROBERT ORR

British American Tobacco was under pressure yesterday amid concerns that Richemont was set to dispose of its 19 per cent stake in the Lucky Strike cigarette maker.

Presenting third-quarter results, the world's second- biggest luxury goods company, which has listings in Switzerland and South Africa, said it would clarify its intentions for the BAT holding in the next few months. Richemont wants to sell to avoid higher taxes.

Those comments sent BAT shares into a tailspin and they finished down 5.2 per cent at a three-month low of Pounds 17.08.

However, JPMorgan reckoned the sell-off had been overdone. Analyst Erik Bloomquist pointed out that the tax changes did not come into effect until 2010 and the stake was unlikely to be simply dumped on the market.

He said Richemont would probably give its BAT stake to its shareholders and then BAT would take a secondary listing on the Johannesburg stock exchange, to "limit" selling pressure.

In the wider market, it was another extremely volatile session. The FTSE 100 traded in a 326-point range, before coming to rest 130.8 points, or 2.3 per cent, lower at 5,609.3. Elsewhere, the FTSE 250 dipped 119.1 points, or 1.2 per cent, to 9,493.7.

Traders said the market had been spooked by further losses on Wall Street and a very weak performance from the heavyweight oil sector.

As the US crude price dropped Dollars 2 a barrel on recessions fears, Royal Dutch Shell fell 5.9 per cent to Pounds 16.90, while BP lost 4.4 per cent to 503 1/2p.

Xstrata provided the session's speculative feature. Its shares gained 2.4 per cent to Pounds 33.60 on late rumours that Brazil's Vale was working flat out on a Pounds 40-a-share offer.

"Xstrata provides an instant diversification 'plug and play' for Vale," Citigroup said in a note to clients. The broker said that in the current environment a cash deal was unlikely but Vale could opt for an equityfinanced deal and then take a listing in the UK.

Prudential firmed 1.2 per cent to 626p on reports that Ping An, the Chinese insurer planning to raise Dollars 22bn as a war chest for overseas acquisitions, was looking to buy a significant holding in the company.

Talk that Spain's Santander could return with another offer saw Alliance & Leicester rise 3.9 per cent to 741 1/2p.

Transport stocks were also in demand thanks to falling oil prices. Carnival , the cruise ship operator, gained 3.8 per cent to Pounds 20.44, British Airways added 4.2 per cent to 308 1/2p and Stagecoach rose 2.9 per cent to 240 3/4p.

Broadcaster ITV dropped 4.1 per cent to 70.7p after Bear Stearns reiterated its "underperform" rating, citing concerns about the outlook for advertising spending.

Among mid-caps, bookmaker William Hill rallied 9.4 per cent to 405 3/4p as short sellers were panicked into closing positions by rumours, later denied, of a bid approach from Greek gambling company OPAP.

Before yesterday's bounce William Hill had fallen 40 per cent in the past three months. The company is seen as vulnerable to a bid.

Vague private equity bid rumours and talk of stake-building helped Restaurant Group climb 6 per cent to 140p.

Catlin , the underwriter and reinsurer, added 6.4 per cent to 348p after being added to the "conviction buy" list at Goldman Sachs. Catlin shares have dropped 22 per cent in the past month because of concerns about the quality of its US bond portfolio. "We believe the stock has already priced in a lot of risk perception, which appears exaggerated," the broker said.

Sports Direct International rose as high as 106 1/2p following positive comments from Oriel Securities.

"We had half expected to find a business lacking in basic controls but that's not the case: this is a properly run retailer," said analyst Jonathan Pritchard, following a company visit.

He added that relations between Sports Direct and Nike and Adidas seemed to be back on an even keel and the company would be at the forefront of selling the newest football boots this summer.

However, Sports Direct shares were dragged down by the wider market and news that it had bought a 5 per cent stake in Amer Sports. They finished 3 per cent lower at 96 1/2p.

People: Hume, Neil

Company: Sports Direct International

Publication title: Financial Times; London (UK)

Pages: 38

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 24, 2008

Section: MARKETS

Publisher: The Financial Times Limited

Place of publication: London (UK)

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London (UK)

Publication subject: Business And Economics--Banking And Finance, Political Science

ISSN: 03071766

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: NEWSPAPER

ProQuest document ID: 250103423

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/250103423?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright Financial Times Ltd. 2008. All rights reserved.)

Last updated: 2017-11-14

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 21 of 313

Brazil resumes issuing visas to Taiwan tourists

Publication info: BBC Monitoring Asia Pacific ; London [London]24 Jan 2008: 1.

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Abstract:

With a huge influx of tourists, Brazil has to be on guard against scoundrels, he said, noting that in the issuance of tourist visas authorities will have to be "cautious," and that "no political factors are involved." [Phoebe Yeh] also said that the number of Brazilian tourists coming to Taiwan averages 3,000 per year, compared with an average of 5,000 Taiwanese tourists to Brazil a year.

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Text of report in English by Lilian Wu carried by Taiwanese Central News Agency website

Taipei, Jan. 24 (CNA) - Brazil has resumed issuing visas to Taiwanese tourists after their earlier suspension, a move welcomed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA), a MOFA spokeswoman said Thursday.

Phoebe Yeh said that after communicating with the Brazilian authorities, Brazil resumed accepting visa applications about two weeks ago and is now issuing visas normally.

During communications, the Brazilian foreign ministry and Brazil's representative office in Taipei - the Brazil Business Centre - stressed that the policy to issue visas to Taiwan tourists has not changed and that the Brazilian government has not issued any new directive to block Taiwanese citizen from visiting Brazil for sightseeing purposes.

The Brazil Business Centre announced abruptly on Jan. 2 that it would suspend visa services to Taiwanese tourists starting that day. The announcement caught local travel agencies off guard and resulted in disputes between the agencies and those who had already paid for tours to Brazil.

Sergio Caldas Mercador Abi-sad, director of the Brazil Business Centre, said at the time that Brazil is in the midst of its peak tourist season, with its world-famous carnival set to take place Feb. 2.

With a huge influx of tourists, Brazil has to be on guard against scoundrels, he said, noting that in the issuance of tourist visas authorities will have to be "cautious," and that "no political factors are involved." Yeh also said that the number of Brazilian tourists coming to Taiwan averages 3,000 per year, compared with an average of 5,000 Taiwanese tourists to Brazil a year.

Credit: Central News Agency website, Taipei, in English 0851 24 Jan 08

People: Wu, Lilian

Publication title: BBC Monitoring Asia Pacific; London

First page: 1

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 24, 2008

Dateline: TAIWAN

Publisher: BBC Worldwide Limited

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: Business And Economics, Political Science

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

ProQuest document ID: 460824109

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/460824109?accountid=4840

Copyright: Central News Agency website, Taipei, in English 0851 24 Jan 08/BBC Monitoring/(c) BBC

Last updated: 2018-02-20

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 22 of 313

DIGEST: [BROWARD METRO EDITION]

Publication info: South Florida Sun - Sentinel ; Fort Lauderdale, Fla. [Fort Lauderdale, Fla]25 Jan 2008: A.18.

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Abstract:

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice's trip to Colombia accompanied by Democratic lawmakers is the latest, and highest- profile, visit in the White House's bid to revive a trade deal with the world's most dangerous country for labor organizing.

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Full text:

Britain

Government unveils tough anti-terrorism proposals

The British government revealed sweeping plans Thursday to toughen terrorism laws, including a proposal to hold suspects for up to 42 days without charge.

Home Secretary Jacqui Smith's plan would increase the limit for detaining suspects without charge from 28 days and urge judges to impose stiffer sentences on criminals whose offenses are linked to terrorism.

The proposal also calls for creation of a specialist national database to store DNA samples from suspected terrorists. Samples are not currently added to a national database holding DNA information on criminals, so officers cannot search quickly for potential matches to other evidence.

The Home Office said officials with access to the database would be vetted and subject to a comprehensive audit trail. Current laws allow top law enforcement and customs supervisors to authorize the covert collection of DNA from suspects.

Brazil

Church slams Carnival plan to hand out contraceptives

The northeastern city of Recife will be the first to hand out morning-after birth control pills during this year's festive Carnival, prompting condemnation from the church Thursday in the world's largest Roman Catholic country.

Pills will be given out at public health centers throughout four days of wild partying that begin Feb. 2, according to Mayor Joao Paulo Lima e Silva. The city hosts one of Brazil's most colorful and frenzied carnivals.

"The church has nothing against having fun during carnival, but the banalization of human sexuality is something we cannot tolerate," said Bishop Antonio Augusto Dias Duarte of the Life and Family Commission of the National Conference of Brazilian Bishops.

Though the pill is marketed as a contraceptive, critics say it prompts abortion. The church opposes both.

City officials counter that pills will not be given out wantonly, rather for cases of rape and broken condoms.

Iran

Security Council powers agree to increase sanctions

Major U.N. Security Council powers have agreed on an incremental increase in sanctions on Iran, including a new restriction on exporters doing business with the country, diplomats said Thursday.

A draft resolution also calls for more monitoring of Iran's military and financial institutions, broader travel bans on Iranian nuclear scientists and other key officials and freezing the assets of people and banks linked to weapons proliferation, Security Council diplomats told The Associated Press.

Diplomats from the five nations with veto power on the council - the United States, Russia, China, Britain and France - spent a third day negotiating a final agreement on principles that would form the basis for a third round of U.N. sanctions on Iran. They were joined by Germany, which has long been involved in efforts to resolve the Iran nuclear dispute.

France

Tens of thousands protest job cuts, demand higher pay

Tens of thousands of civil servants demonstrated around France on Thursday to protest job cuts and press for higher salaries in what the government dismissed as a "labor union ritual."

Teachers, hospital workers, firefighters and postal workers were among those who answered the call from seven of eight public servants' union to strike and march.

Across the country, about 400,000 people took to the streets, according to the CGT labor union. They jammed streets in Paris, Lyon, Toulouse, Bordeaux and in the southern port city of Marseille.

Unions claimed up to 40,000 people marched in Paris, while police put the figure at 17,000.

Union leader Francois Chereque asked the government to open salary talks and complained that President Nicolas Sarkozy has failed to deliver better buying power to the French.

Colombia

Rice, union members meet in effort to revive trade deal

Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice's trip to Colombia accompanied by Democratic lawmakers is the latest, and highest- profile, visit in the White House's bid to revive a trade deal with the world's most dangerous country for labor organizing.

Rice arrived in Colombia's capital of Bogota on Thursday and from there headed in a caravan with the 10 lawmakers to the city of Medellin. The delegation met late Thursday with Colombian union members to discuss the trade deal, but details of the meeting were not released.

The White House is pushing for approval of the agreement over the opposition of the majority Democratic leadership in Congress, who say President Alvaro Uribe hasn't done enough to curb violence against trade unionists. { SB

People: Rice, Condoleezza

Publication title: South Florida Sun - Sentinel; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Pages: A.18

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 25, 2008

Section: News

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: BRIEF

ProQuest document ID: 387613128

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/387613128?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by the Sun-Sentinel)

Last updated: 2017-11-09

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 23 of 313

[ iraq ]

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: The Ledger ; Lakeland, Fla. [Lakeland, Fla]25 Jan 2008.

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Abstract:

Brig. Gen. Salah Mohammed al-Jubouri, the police chief for surrounding Ninevah province, was killed as he left the blast site after being confronted by an angry crowd shouting "Allahu Akbar" or "God is Great."[ afghanistan ]Anti-U.S. Crowds Protest 11 Deaths

LA PAZ | Bolivia's national police commander said Thursday that his own department's intelligence service had spied on politicians and journalists and angrily accused a subordinate of directing the "dirty work."

SAO PAULO | The northeastern city of Recife will be the first to hand out morning-after birth control pills during this year's festive Carnival, prompting condemnation from the church Thursday in the world's largest Roman Catholic country.

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Suicide Bomber Kills Chief, Two Other Officers

BAGHDAD | A suicide bomber killed an Iraqi police chief and two other officers Thursday as they surveyed the site of the wreckage of a blast a day earlier that devastated a predominantly Sunni neighborhood in the volatile northern city of Mosul.

The casualty toll from Wednesday's explosion rose to at least 34 dead and 224 injured, said Hisham al-Hamdani, the head of the Ninevah provincial council.

Brig. Gen. Salah Mohammed al-Jubouri, the police chief for surrounding Ninevah province, was killed as he left the blast site after being confronted by an angry crowd shouting "Allahu Akbar" or "God is Great."[ afghanistan ]Anti-U.S. Crowds Protest 11 Deaths

KABUL | Hundreds of Afghans chanted anti-American slogans to protest the deaths of nine policemen who local officials said were killed Thursday in an anti-Taliban operation by U.S.-led coalition troops.

The coalition denied killing the policemen. A spokesman said four insurgents were killed and nine were detained in the mission in central Afghanistan.

The officers, including a district police chief, died in Ghazni province during the raid by U.S. ground forces and air strikes, said a provincial official, Habeb-ul Rahman. Two civilians also died, he said.

[ bolivia ]Intel Staff Blamed For 'Dirty Work'

LA PAZ | Bolivia's national police commander said Thursday that his own department's intelligence service had spied on politicians and journalists and angrily accused a subordinate of directing the "dirty work."

The announcement by Gen. Miguel Vasquez was prompted by materials sent anonymously to several Bolivian news media this week, which appeared to document efforts to follow opposition state governors, a television reporter, and congressmen aligned with President Evo Morales.

[ canada ]Actor Guilty of Trespassing

NIAGARA FALLS | Danny Glover has been convicted for trespassing in a hotel during a union rally in 2006.

Glover, who wasn't in court, was convicted Thursday along with UNITE HERE union representative Alex Dagg and Ontario Federation of Labour President Wayne Samuelson.[ italy ]Premier Resigns After 20 Months

ROME | Italian Premier Romano Prodi resigned Thursday after his center-left coalition lost a Senate confidence vote, a humiliating end to a 20-month-old government plagued by infighting.

Calling early elections or asking a politician to try to form another government are among President Giorgio Napolitano's options.[ brazil ]Revelers Offered Birth Control Pills

SAO PAULO | The northeastern city of Recife will be the first to hand out morning-after birth control pills during this year's festive Carnival, prompting condemnation from the church Thursday in the world's largest Roman Catholic country.

Pills will be given out at public health centers throughout four days of wild partying that begin Feb. 2.

[ For more world news, go to www.theledger.com/world. ]

Publication title: The Ledger; Lakeland, Fla.

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 25, 2008

Section: NEWS

Publisher: Halifax Media Group

Place of publication: Lakeland, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Lakeland, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 01630288

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 390421913

Document URL: https://logi n.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/390421913?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 New York Times Company)

Last updated: 2012-10-12

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 24 of 313

January 26, 2008 (Page 19 of 68)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]26 Jan 2008: 19.

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Abstract: None available.

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Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 48

Issue: 276

First page: 19

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 26, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249384844

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Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Jan 26, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-30

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 25 of 313

The World | In Brief: [FINAL Edition]

Publication info: Orlando Sentinel ; Orlando, Fla. [Orlando, Fla]26 Jan 2008: A8.

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Caption text only.

Illustration

PHOTO: CARNIVAL IN BRAZIL: Revelers wear elaborate costumes and papier-mch masks Friday as they dance during the opening of a multicultural carnival in Olinda in the northeastern state of Pernambuco.
ERALDO PERES FOR THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Publication title: Orlando Sentinel; Orlando, Fla.

Pages: A8

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 26, 2008

column: The World In Brief

Section: A SECTION

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Orlando, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Orlando, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: NEWSPAPER

ProQuest document ID: 284127122

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Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by The Orlando Sentinel)

Last updated: 2017-11-04

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 26 of 313

January 27, 2008 (Page 19 of 132)

Publication info: Tallahassee Democrat (1949-2011) ; Tallahassee, Florida [Tallahassee, Florida]27 Jan 2008: 19.

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Publication title: Tallahassee Democrat (1949-2011); Tallahassee, Florida

Volume: 103

Issue: 27

First page: 19

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 27, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Tallahassee, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Tallahassee, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 0738-5153

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2095919675

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Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Jan 27, 2008

Last updated: 2018-08-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 27 of 313

Carnaval on a Smaller Stage

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Jan 27, 2008.

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It may be too late to join in this year’s festivities in Rio de Janeiro, Salvador and Recife, but here are some suggestions for a few of the more popular alternative carnivals.

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CARNAVAL starts Friday in Brazil, so you can bet that tourists have already started to flood into Rio de Janeiro, Salvador and Recife, Brazil’s three most famous headquarters for pre-Lenten hedonism.

And just as assuredly, local residents have begun to flood out. Some flee the chaos to quiet beach or mountain retreats, but many head to other navels of navel-baring across the country, less famous to American tourists. Some are small-town versions of the big-city celebrations; others march to the beat of their own cross-dressing drummer.

You could still make it for this year; though with last-minute flights starting at more than $1,000, you may want to spend this weekend dreaming about Carnaval 2009. (That’s Feb. 20 to 25.) Whenever you go, BACC Travel, (800) 222-2746 or www.bacctravel.com, an agency specializing in trips to Brazil, is a good place to start planning. Its bilingual agents often have access to cheaper flights to Brazil than Web sites like Expedia and Travelocity and are knowledgeable about travel within Brazil.

Here are a few of the more popular alternative carnivals:

Laguna

About 75 miles south of the state capital of Florianópolis, this town of 50,000 sits on the tip of a peninsula with the Santo Antônio Lagoon on one side and the Atlantic on the other. It plays host to one of the top carnivals in southern Brazil.

The locals like to think they have the best of all worlds here: whereas Rio’s carnival is best known for its pay-to-enter parades in the Oscar Niemeyer-designed Sambódromo, and Salvador has a traditional street carnival, Laguna places equal importance on both (albeit on a much smaller scale). The town’s samba schools compete in the 8,000-person Sambódromo (where entrance is 10 reais, or $5.70 at about 1.75 reais to the dollar), but the streets also fill with “blocos,” the dancing masses that follow trucks outfitted with sound systems and platform stages where bands play samba and other Brazilian music. (To join in, you typically must purchase the bloco’s uniform, or abadá.) One prime attraction is the Bloco da Pracinha, which sets out on Sunday from the neighborhood of Magalhães and makes its way to the beach, with tens of thousands of followers in tow.

There is also a third, more family-friendly venue: a stage set up at the city’s main beach supports bands playing sambas and other traditional carnival rhythms like axé (from Bahia) and frevo (from the northeast) as well as the old-fashioned carnival marches known as marchinhas.

Visitors to Laguna can get there by bus from Florianópolis, and stay in hotels on the beach side of town or in the picturesque colonial town. Both www.lagunabrasil.com.br and www.laguna.sc.gov.br offer information in Portuguese.

São Luiz do Paraitinga

This small town in São Paulo state’s interior is about 115 miles from the capital and only 30 miles down the road from the popular beach resort of Ubatuba. Carnaval went on a 60-year hiatus here starting in the 1920s, when an Italian priest did away with it on moral grounds. But things started up again in 1981, and now the town is known for having one of the best old-fashioned street carnivals around.

An official decree actually prohibits more modern rhythms like samba and axé; the official music genre of the blocos here is the traditional marchinha, or carnival march, which dates back to the 1920s and was a staple of Carnaval through the mid-20th century. Over 1,500 local marchinhas have been composed locally since Carnaval started again, and you’ll hear many of them.

The costumes worn by the blocos are similar to carnivals across the country, with bloco-specific themes, which this year include everything from babies to bus drivers.

Visitors can stay at one of the pousadas — or inns — in or near town (make reservations five or six months in advance), or rent a house from one of the residents who leave during that time. Information (in Portuguese only; click on pousadas for lodging) is at www.saoluizdoparaitinga.sp.gov.br.

Ouro Preto and Diamantina

Ouro Preto is a stunning former gold-mining town of cobblestone streets and 18th-century colonial churches in the hills of Minas Gerais. But, and this is important come Carnaval time, it’s also a huge college town.

Visitors can stay in the hotels and pousadas around town, but another option for the younger set is to stay in student housing (known as repúblicas), which present their own mini-carnivals. Pay one price and you’re in for five days — with a guarantee of a mattress, bathroom access, and little else. Oh yeah, and free beer, which they call cerveja liberada, as if the beer elsewhere in town was being held for ransom.

You can skip between your own private carnival and the more traditional one on the streets — complete with blocos playing samba and axé, and plentiful cross-dressers making merry — as well as a series of more family-oriented nightly outdoor concerts called the Candonguêro Project.

Diamantina is a similarly beautiful town, though as its name indicates, its mining industry revolved around diamonds. Here Carnaval has less of a college vibe, with the focus on the street carnival, which includes a popular local samba band called Bat Caverna (as in the place they keep the Batmobile). Many residents rent out their houses for visitors.

Information on Ouro Preto is available (in English) at www.ouropreto.org.br and on Diamantina (Portuguese only) at www.diamantina.com.br and www.karnaval.com.br.

Morro de São Paulo

If you do go to Carnaval in Salvador, but it’s not quite enough for you, consider tacking on an after-party variously known as a pós-Carnaval or ressaca (Portuguese for hangover). One of the most popular among the country’s harder-partying youth takes place in Morro de São Paulo, a village (and popular year-round tourist destination) on the island of Tinharé, about 20 minutes from Salvador by air or about two hours by ferry. There are no cars, a few sand roads, four picturesque beaches (creatively named First, Second, Third and Fourth Beach) and a whole bunch of discothèques.

Not much is going on there during Carnaval itself — everyone is up in Salvador. But come Ash Wednesday, the place speeds right through repopulating and into overpopulating, and the party continues through the weekend. By day, beaches lined with caipirinha stands serve fruity cocktails to crowds, by night the discos with names like Pulsar and Funny in and around town throw blow-out parties — except Thursday, which is luau night, when you can dance on the beach into Friday morning.

It costs about 170 reais each way to fly from Salvador. Morro de São Paulo has a user-friendly, useful Web site in English (and other languages), www.morrodesaopaulo.com.br, with information on getting there and where to stay.

Subject: Beaches; Carnivals

Location: Brazil Rio de Janeiro Brazil

Company / organization: Name: Expedia Inc; NAICS: 561599

Identifier / keyword: Travel and Vacations Kugel, Seth Brazil EXPEDIA INCORPORATED Beaches Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) Carnival (Pre-Lenten) Travelocity Nineteen Hundred Twenties IMMIGRATION AND REFUGEES Niemeyer, Oscar Metals and Minerals Salvador (Brazil) Ouro Preto (Brazil) Priests Recife (Brazil) Floods Music Bahia (Brazil) Portugal

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 27, 2008

Section: travel

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2222758235

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2222758235?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-10

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 28 of 313

January 27, 2008 (Page 73 of 300)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]27 Jan 2008: 73.

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Abstract: None available.

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Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 48

Issue: 277

First page: 73

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 27, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249247225

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249247225?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Jan 27, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 29 of 313

A SURVIVAL GUIDE TO CARNIVAL IN RIO: [BROWARD METRO EDITION]

Author: Astor, Michael

Publication info: South Florida Sun - Sentinel ; Fort Lauderdale, Fla. [Fort Lauderdale, Fla]27 Jan 2008: 7.

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Abstract:

"It's one of the most fantastic celebrations on Earth. If you've seen anything about it on television or in print, it's all that but 20 times better," said Arthur Martinez, a retired U.S. Postal Service executive from Indio, Calif. "It takes about seven minutes to get into the mood. The samba is just so infectious."

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Everyone knows Rio de Janeiro's carnival is supposed to be the greatest party on Earth, but to many, the hordes of sweaty, scantily clad bodies on display can be as intimidating as they are inviting.

The city's reputation for violence and the difficulties that arise from not speaking Portuguese make it even more important that tourists get some guidance about how to jump in.

The locals have barely recovered from their New Year's hangovers and are already preparing for the five-day-long, no-holds-barred pre- Lenten bash that sweeps over this seaside city like a tidal wave.

Foreigners in the know are flocking to the hillside shantytowns, where the city's top carnival groups hold weekly rehearsals to polish this year's theme songs and to the Sambadrome stadium where free technical rehearsals offer a taste of the Samba parade with none of the glitter or glitz.

For the carnival itself, which takes place during the first five days of February this year, there are basically three ways to celebrate: party in the street, watch the Samba parade from the stands or - for the truly fleet-footed and daring - dance in the parade itself.

Most of the larger samba groups allow tourists to join their contingents as long as they wear the costumes, known as fantasias. The groups sell them to revelers over the Internet and at the city's larger hotels, delivering them to the customer's doorstep.

The elaborate costumes can cost anywhere from $282 to $1,412, and provide revelers with a very different perspective.

The upside of parading is the thrill of singing and dancing under the stadium's bright lights before a huge crowd.

The downside: once the parade is over, revelers are left standing outside the stadium in a brilliant, slightly silly-looking get-up, with few options aside from returning to the hotel to watch the rest of the parade on TV.

"It's one of the most fantastic celebrations on Earth. If you've seen anything about it on television or in print, it's all that but 20 times better," said Arthur Martinez, a retired U.S. Postal Service executive from Indio, Calif. "It takes about seven minutes to get into the mood. The samba is just so infectious."

"You don't have to learn to samba, but it's a good idea if you do," explains Martinez, who got his first taste of Rio's carnival back in 1978.

Brazilians like foreigners to at least try to dance. Of course, they laugh at all the misguided footwork, but it's better if foreigners loosen up than be wallflowers.

A capacity crowd of 88,500 watches from the stands of the Sambadrome stadium, where top-tier samba groups present their elaborate parades, the centerpiece of Brazil's annual carnival celebrations.

But most of the dancing goes on down below, on the stadium's nearly half-mile-long runway, where the city's top 12 samba groups each mount 80-minute long spectacles featuring hundreds of drummers, thousands of dancers and about a dozen over-the-top parade floats.

For tourists, the biggest problem with trying to watch the celebrations is that the Sambadrome is in a tough part of town, and parade tickets usually sell out months in advance. There are still plenty of tickets available through travel agencies and scalpers, but at a hefty premium.

Coimbra Sirica, a public relations executive from Northport, N.Y., chose to go through a travel agent, who provided transportation to and from the stadium, because she wanted her young children to experience Rio's carnival without worrying about security.

"The most exciting thing was to watch my children start the evening with their bodies slightly stiff and by the end of the evening they were dancing wildly, unreservedly," she explained. "I love the country, I love but music but I have some concerns about safety."

Sirica and her family, who visited last year, also followed local advice to leave valuables behind and bring only a bit of pocket money to the parade.

An easier and cheaper way to celebrate is to take part in Rio's street carnival.

No tickets or costumes are required to fall in behind one of the many bandas and blocos that ply the city's streets during carnival time.

Bandas play hits of carnivals past, while blocos write a new song for each carnival which they repeat endlessly.

The Banda Ipanema - one of the most famous carnival bands and a favorite of the city's gay community - parades along Ipanema beach on carnival Saturday and Tuesday - this year it's Saturday and Feb. 5.

Fans of the Carmelitas bloco like to dress as nuns - though habits are not required. The group parades on Friday night, attracting a good-sized crowd to the hilltop Santa Teresa neighborhood.

And the Cordao de Bola Preta, one of the city's most traditional carnival bands, packs the city's center on Saturday morning, making it a favorite for families with young children.

Some of the bigger blocos have become victims of their own success in recent years, attracting crowds so large that even the musicians have trouble breaking through the gridlock.

If all that sounds like too much trouble, there is always the path of least resistance: stay on the beach and wait for the party to come to you.

Illustration

Photo(s) { BR; Caption: Samba en masse: During the second night of carnival celebrations in Rio, a samba school performs at the Sambadrome stadium. AFP/photo/Antonio Scorza Carrying the beat: Drummers parade at Sambadrome during carnival celebrations. More than 80,000 people pack the stadium to watch the parades. AFP/photo/Mauricio Lima

Publication title: South Florida Sun - Sentinel; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Pages: 7

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 27, 2008

Section: Travel

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: NEWSPAPER

ProQuest document ID: 387638147

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/387638147?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by the Sun-Sentinel)

Last updated: 2017-11-09

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 30 of 313

BRAZIL TO HAVE AGRICULTURAL ATTACH? AT EMBASSIES

Publication info: Info - Prod Research (Middle East) ; Ramat-Gan [Ramat-Gan]27 Jan 2008: 1.

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Abstract:

According to anba: The government of Brazil is going to create the position of agricultural attach? at its diplomatic representations abroad, with the objective of aiding ambassadors in questions involving the agricultural sector. The measure was announced yesterday (24), in S?o Paulo, by the Agribusiness Foreign Relations secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture, C?lio Porto, during a meeting with private sector representatives to discuss the foreign market priorities for 2008.

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According to anba: The government of Brazil is going to create the position of agricultural attach? at its diplomatic representations abroad, with the objective of aiding ambassadors in questions involving the agricultural sector. The measure was announced yesterday (24), in S?o Paulo, by the Agribusiness Foreign Relations secretary at the Ministry of Agriculture, C?lio Porto, during a meeting with private sector representatives to discuss the foreign market priorities for 2008. This employee will aid in the negotiations with foreign governments supplying the embassies with technical information, which will grant greater agility to processes and will expand the negotiation capacity of diplomats, especially with regard to the sanitary and phytosanitary areas and also in removal of non-tariff barriers. In the case of sanitary problems being suspected, for example, the embassy will be able to provide information about the true situation faster, avoiding an eventual block of imports or removing a ban more rapidly. According to Porto, in formal meetings with representatives of foreign governments, the diplomats will still be responsible for the negotiation, but nothing bars direct meetings between the attach? and the technical personnel. "They will be allocated to diplomatic representations in countries considered strategic," said the secretary. Porto stated that these countries have not yet been defined, but initially eight embassies should have these professionals, and they will probably be in Europe and Asia. The decree creating the position, signed by the ministries of Agriculture, Planning and Foreign Relations, should be published after Carnival (in early February). There should then be a process for selection of the employees and, after approval, they will undergo a training course at Rio Branco Institute, the Brazilian diplomatic academy.

Credit: Info-Prod Strategic Business Information

Publication title: Info - Prod Research (Middle East); Ramat-Gan

First page: 1

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 27, 2008

Publisher: Info-Prod Research (Middle East) Ltd.

Place of publication: Ramat-Gan

Country of publication: Israel, Ramat-Gan

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 457434681

Document URL: https://login. proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/457434681?accountid=4840

Copyright: (C) 2008 Info-Prod All rights reserved.

Last updated: 2010-07-01

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 31 of 313

Her life: Sambas, suntans and surgery; Just in time for carnival, a Brazilian model approaches the record for body work.: [CENTRAL FLORIDA Edition]

Author: Muello, Peter

Publication info: Orlando Sentinel ; Orlando, Fla. [Orlando, Fla]28 Jan 2008: A2.

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RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil -- Brazilian model Angela Bismarchi will dance nearly nude ahead of a 300-person drum corps in next month's carnival parade, hoping her sculpted beauty as a "percussion queen" will lead her samba group to the championship. But she has another goal in mind as well.

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RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil -- Brazilian model Angela Bismarchi will dance nearly nude ahead of a 300-person drum corps in next month's carnival parade, hoping her sculpted beauty as a "percussion queen" will lead her samba group to the championship.

But she has another goal in mind as well.

In preparation for Rio's five-day carnival blowout in February, she's having her 42nd plastic surgery -- closing in on the Guinness World Record of 47 surgical procedures held by 52-year-old American Cindy Jackson, who calls herself a "Living Doll" and now promotes her own skin-care line.

"I always was vain," Bismarchi, 36, acknowledges at the medical clinic near Rio where her plastic-surgeon husband has operated on her 10 times. "And for carnival, you have to feel especially pretty."

Just days before Brazil's Feb. 2-6 carnival begins, Bismarchi will have nylon wires implanted in her eyes to give them an Asian slant, in line with this year's theme of her samba group, Porto da Pedra: the centennial of Japanese immigration to Brazil.

Bismarchi's unabashed passion for plastic surgery has made her a celebrity in this image-mad country, where even the poor get surgical enhancements on the installment plan. Brazilians see no shame in touching up their bodies, which are routinely exposed at carnival and flaunted on the beach in thong bikinis so tiny they're called "dental floss."

Born poor in Rio, Bismarchi had her first cosmetic surgery in 1992 after her daughter was born. She was just 21, but said she was depressed after giving birth because her breasts began to sag.

So she had them lifted, adored the results and became so fascinated with cosmetic surgery that her next two husbands were plastic surgeons.

"I put in a prosthesis and loved it. I was beautiful and sensual again," said Bismarchi, a striking figure at 6 feet -- taller in white high heels -- with long blond hair flowing over her white minidress.

Bismarchi promotes an exclusive line of sexy lingerie, gives beauty tips and responds to the 500 to 700 letters and e-mails she receives each day.

She does 21/2 hours of exercise daily, takes dance lessons and spends hours tanning on the beach.

"I consider myself quite timid. I'm just a little girl grown big," she said. "I never imagined I would be famous. Things just happened."

Illustration

PHOTO: In a Brazilian clinic, Angela Bismarchi is shown how nylon wires will be implanted to slant her eyes.SILVIA IZQUIERDO/THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

Credit: Peter Muello, The Associated Press

Publication title: Orlando Sentinel; Orlando, Fla.

Pages: A2

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 28, 2008

column: BEHIND THE NEWS

Section: A SECTION

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Orlando, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Orlando, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: NEWSPAPER

ProQuest document ID: 284107341

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/284107341?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by The Orlando Sentinel)

Last updated: 2017-11-05

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 32 of 313

January 30, 2008 (Page 9 of 104)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]30 Jan 2008: 9.

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Abstract: None available.

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Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 34

First page: 9

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 30, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2226157638

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2226157638?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Jan 30, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-16

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 33 of 313

January 30, 2008 (Page 28 of 74)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]30 Jan 2008: 28.

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Abstract: None available.

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Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 48

Issue: 280

First page: 28

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 30, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249025613

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249025613?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Jan 30, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 34 of 313

PLASTIC SURGERY COMES NATURALLY FOR MODEL BRAZIL CARNIVAL STAR HAS TALLIED 42 OPERATIONS: [BROWARD METRO EDITION]

Author: MUELLO, PETER

Publication info: South Florida Sun - Sentinel ; Fort Lauderdale, Fla. [Fort Lauderdale, Fla]30 Jan 2008: A.28.

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Abstract:

Photo(s) { SB; Samba team rehearses: Angela Bismarchi's passion for plastic surgery has made her a celebrity in Brazil. "I always was vain," said Bismarchi, 36. "And for carnival, you have to feel especially pretty." Carnival starts Saturday. AP photo/Ricardo Moraes

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Brazilian model Angela Bismarchi will dance almost nude ahead of a 300-person drum corps in the carnival parade, hoping her sculpted beauty as a "percussion queen" will lead her samba group to the championship.

But she has another goal in mind as well.

In preparation for Rio's five-day carnival blowout, she's having her 42nd plastic surgery - closing in on the Guinness World Record of 47 surgical procedures held by 52-year-old American Cindy Jackson, who calls herself a "Living Doll" and now promotes her own skin-care line.

"I always was vain," Bismarchi, 36, acknowledged at the medical clinic near Rio where her plastic-surgeon husband has operated on her 10 times. "And for carnival, you have to feel especially pretty."

Just days before carnival begins, Bismarchi was having nylon wires implanted in her eyes to give them an Asian slant, in line with this year's theme of her samba group, Porto da Pedra: the centennial of Japanese immigration to Brazil.

Bismarchi's unabashed passion for plastic surgery has made her a celebrity in this image-mad country, where even the poor get surgical enhancements on installment plans. Brazilians see no shame in touching up their bodies, which are routinely exposed at carnival and flaunted on the beach in thong bikinis so tiny they're called "dental floss."

Born poor in Rio, Bismarchi had her first cosmetic surgery in 1992 after her daughter was born. She was just 21 but said she was depressed after nursing caused her breasts to sag. So she had them lifted and became so fascinated with cosmetic surgery that her next two husbands were plastic surgeons.

"I put in a prosthesis and loved it. I was beautiful and sensual again," Bismarchi said, a striking figure at 6 feet - taller in white high heels - with long blond hair flowing over her white minidress.

Carnival has a special place in Bismarchi's career.

She first made headlines in 2000, when police tried to arrest her after she paraded partly nude with the Brazilian flag painted on her body.

"I became famous all over," she said. "The power of carnival is amazing."

Two years later, she paraded with the face of President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva painted across her exposed body. Police released her after she explained it was a gesture to Lula's anti- hunger program.

A wardrobe malfunction at last year's carnival put Bismarchi back in the news - when her G-string broke and dangled from her waist, Porto da Pedra was threatened with a penalty for total nudity, forbidden under parade rules. But the resourceful Bismarchi hid from the judges behind the drum section, changed her tiny "sex cover" and finished the parade.

Today, Bismarchi promotes an exclusive line of sexy lingerie, gives beauty tips and responds to the 500 to 700 letters and e- mails she receives each day. She does two and a half hours of exercise daily, takes dance lessons and spends hours tanning on the beach.

"I consider myself quite timid. I'm just a little girl grown big," she said. "I never imagined I would be famous. Things just happened."

Illustration

Photo(s) { SB; Caption: Samba team rehearses: Angela Bismarchi's passion for plastic surgery has made her a celebrity in Brazil. "I always was vain," said Bismarchi, 36. "And for carnival, you have to feel especially pretty." Carnival starts Saturday. AP photo/Ricardo Moraes

People: Bismarchi, Angela

Publication title: South Florida Sun - Sentinel; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Pages: A.28

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 30, 2008

Dateline: RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil

Section: News

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: NEWSPAPER

ProQuest document ID: 387624757

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/387624757?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by the Sun-Sentinel)

Last updated: 2017-11-09

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 35 of 313

CARNIVAL KING HANDED KEYS TO RIO AS PARTY BEGINS EARLY: [BROWARD METRO EDITION]

Author: Astor, Michael

Publication info: South Florida Sun - Sentinel ; Fort Lauderdale, Fla. [Fort Lauderdale, Fla]30 Jan 2008: A.28.

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Abstract:

Mayor Cesar Maia kicked off Rio de Janeiro's annual carnival Tuesday by handing over the key to the city to the Rei Momo, or carnival king, and jokingly putting him in charge of solving the city's problems.

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Mayor Cesar Maia kicked off Rio de Janeiro's annual carnival Tuesday by handing over the key to the city to the Rei Momo, or carnival king, and jokingly putting him in charge of solving the city's problems.

"When I hand the key over to the Rei Momo, all the questions facing the city become his responsibility," Maia said, suggesting that the Momo would take care of civil servants' low salaries and potholes with a wave of his scepter.

The carnival king and queen rode in with their princesses in a horse-drawn carriage in the pouring rain to receive the key at the City of Samba, a complex of warehouses where top samba groups prepare their floats.

Despite the official carnival opening - four days earlier this year - banks, businesses and government offices remain open this week. The high point of the celebration starts Sunday, when the city's top 12 samba groups mount 80-minute long parades in hopes of being declared this year's champion.

In most Brazilian cities, the celebrations run until Ash Wednesday, when Catholics traditionally give up meat and promise to live more circumspectly. In Salvador da Bahia, the celebrations run beyond Ash Wednesday, despite church protests.

Salvador had a minor controversy when its Rei Momo, Clarindo Silva, weighing just 128 pounds, was elected king despite a city requirement that the Momo weigh at least 265 pounds.

Exclusively fat carnival kings have been a thing of the past in Rio since 2003 when Maia, in a bow to public concerns about growing obesity, relaxed a requirement that Rio's carnival king weigh over 300 pounds.

Alex de Oliveira, serving as Rio's carnival king for the 10th consecutive year, once weighed 500.44 pounds, but has trimmed down to 161 pounds through stomach-staple surgery.

To be declared carnival king, a candidate must display charm and personality - and know how to dance the samba. { SB

People: Maia, Cesar

Publication title: South Florida Sun - Sentinel; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Pages: A.28

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 30, 2008

Dateline: RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil

Section: News

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: NEWSPAPER

ProQuest document ID: 387658890

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/387658890?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by the Sun-Sentinel)

Last updated: 2017-11-09

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 36 of 313

Event Brief of Q4 2007 Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Earnings Conference Call - Final

Publication info: Fair Disclosure Wire ; Linthicum [Linthicum]30 Jan 2008.

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PARTICIPANTS

. Brian Rice, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., EVP, CFO . Richard Fain, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., Chairman, CEO . Adam Goldstein, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., President - Royal Caribbean International . Dan Hanrahan, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., President - Celebrity Cruises . Michael Savner, Banc of America Securities, Analyst . Tim Condor, Wachovia Securities, Analyst . Robin Farley, UBS, Analyst . Hakan Ipekci, Merrill Lynch, Analyst . Steve Kent, Goldman Sachs, Analyst . Bob Simonson, William Blair, Analyst . Greg Johnson, Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd., Associate Vice President - Investor Relations . Felicia Hendrix, Lehman Brothers, Analyst . Steve Wieczynski, Stifel Nicolaus, Analyst . Scott Barry, Credit Suisse, Analyst . Assisa Georgieva, Infinity Research, Analyst . Pat Schaffer, Chartwell, Analyst . Rahad Meetal, Blue Bay Asset Management, Analyst . Henrick Schultz, Analyst

OVERVIEW

RCL reported 4Q07 revenues of $1.5b and net income of $70.8m or $0.33 per share. Expects 1Q08 EPS to be $0.30-0.35.

FINANCIAL DATA

A. Key Data From Call 1. 4Q07 revenue = $1.5b. 2. 4Q07 net income = $70.8m. 3. 4Q07 EPS = $0.33. 4. Cash and equivalents at 12/31/07 = $200m. 5. Full-year 2008 EPS guidance = $3.20-3.40. 6. 1Q08 EPS guidance = $0.30-0.35.

PRESENTATION SUMMARY

S1. Business Review (R.F.) 1. Business Environment: 1. Has a large percentage of forward bookings. 1. Provides some additional insight to what is happening and what is likely to happen. 2. 4Q07 yields rose over 3%. 3. Current booking patterns portend the fourth largest yield increase as long as Co. has been tracking statistics. 4. Co. believes that its business, while not recession-proof, is recession-resistant. 5. During turbulent times, consumers focus more on value. 1. They focus on getting more vacation for their money. 2. Even during soft economic cycles, people continue to vacation but they also demand exceptional value. 3. Cruising continues to be the best value in vacation industry. 4. Fixed-price nature of purchase becomes even more appealing during tough times. 5. Co. has never seen the type of correlation between revenues and economic cycle that many people assume would be determinative. 6. Quality of brands serves Co. remarkably well during difficult times. 7. Early indications from wave period have been more positive than many would have speculated. 8. Co.'s visibility into booking trends is inherently greater in short-term than in longer-term. 1. A continued bad economy is likely to cause greater deviations in 2H08 than in 1H08. 9. In 2007, Co. faced a difficult economic environment and daunting oil prices. 1. High cost of fuel appears likely to remain a permanent part of landscape for foreseeable future. 2. Improving returns requires continued improvement in revenue performance and better control of OpEx and CapEx. 10. Product delivery, sales and marketing efforts, and revenue management capabilities have provided Co. with terrific momentum. 11. In 2007, Co. made good progress in improving cost management.

S2. Financial Performance (B.R.) 1. 4Q07 Highlights: 1. Revenues increased to $1.5b from $1.2b in 4Q06. 2. Net income increased to $70.8m, or $0.33 per share vs. previous guidance of $0.32-0.37. 1. 4Q06 net income was $46.6m, or $0.22 per share. 2. EPS was within guidance range. 3. 19% increase in fuel prices offset benefits Co. saw from strong close-in demand. 2. 4Q07 Results (Excluding Pullmantur): 1. Despite the mounting uncertainty with broader economy: 1. Close-in business remained remarkably strong. 2. Yields came in much better than anticipated. 2. Costs were higher due to rising fuel prices and higher than forecasted load factors. 3. Guidance on a comparable basis was for yields to increase in a range of around 2%, actually generated increase of 3.2%. 1. As was the case in 3Q07, Co. had highest yields in its history for 4Q07. 4. Load factors were 1 percentage point higher than expectations, although slightly below last year due to deployment shifts. 5. Pricing leverage was particularly strong with close-in bookings. 6. Costs were higher than guidance. 1. Net cruise costs per APCD on a comparable basis were up 5.9%. 1. Excluding fuel, were up 3.4%, somewhat higher than guidance of increase around 2%. 2. This was driven predominantly by higher running costs related to higher occupancy levels and some additional investments in international infrastructure. 3. 4Q07 Combined Results (Including Pullmantur): 1. For whole Co., net yields increased 11% and net cruise costs increased 13.4%. 1. Excluding fuel, net cruise costs increased 12.1%. 2. Pullmantur's business did very well in 4Q07. 1. Due to two-month lag in reporting, was comprised of Aug., Sept. and Oct. 2. Yield performance exceeded expectations. 3. Costs were somewhat higher than forecasts, mainly due to fuel. 4. Overall, brand performed quite well, consistent with expectation. 3. Fuel costs for whole Co. on a per APCD basis increased 19.2% vs. 4Q06. 1. Came in 18.5% higher than costs included in guidance. 2. Fuel costs were $20.50 per APCD in 4Q06. 3. In 4Q07 higher avg. fuel prices added $7.65 per APCD. 4. Co. was able to offset a portion of this increase through consumption efficiencies and hedging, which saved $3.71 per APCD. 4. Guidance: 1. 1Q08 EPS to be $0.30-0.35, which compares favorably to $0.04 reported for 1Q07. 1. Will have an increase in capacity of 8.8%. 2. Expects yields to be up around 7%. 3. Based on current at-the-pump price for fuel, net cruise costs are expected to be up around 1%. 4. Excluding fuel, net cruise costs should be down between 1-2%. 2. Guidance for Full-year 2008: 1. Capacity increase of 5.1% and yields to be up around 4% vs. 2007. 2. Based on current fuel prices, Co. expects net cruise costs to be up around 2%. 3. If fuel prices remain at current levels, fuel costs for 1Q08 would be approx. $145m, or $492 per metric ton. 1. Would be approx. $595m, or $484 per metric ton for full-year. 2. As of today, Co. is 52% hedged for 1Q08 and 45% for full-year. 3. 10% change in fuel price either way equates to $8m impact to 1Q08 and $35m impact to the year. 4. Fuel swaps are currently benefiting 2008 by about $54m. 4. Largely due to energy savings initiative, at today's fuel prices, fuel costs for APCD in 2009 would actually be less than 2008. 5. For full-year, expects net cruise costs, excluding fuel, to be up 1-2%. 1. EPS is estimated to be $3.20-3.40. 6. Cost guidance builds on 2007 results, where Co. saw net cruise costs, with and without fuel, grow less than 1% on a comparable basis. 7. For both 1Q08 and full-year, expects lower interest income than last year. 1. This results from: 1. Repayment of a loan received associated with JV with First Choice. 2. Lower interest rates in Co.'s management to lower cash balances. 8. Assumed FX rates remain at today's levels. 9. Does not receive some of the benefits had in 2007. 1. Net effect of these two items is in the range of $25m. 5. Current Demand Patterns: 1. On last call, Co. showed that load factors and pricing were up for 1Q and 2Q. 2. Since Co. generally sails at or near full capacity, any variance with book load factors, whether positive or negative, tends to contract as it moves closer to sail date. 1. Had very strong load factors three months ago, and this provided Co. with very good pricing leverage for remaining inventory. 2. Position in 1Q has continued to improve, and is driving guidance for yield improvement of around 7%. 3. For 2Q, story is directionally the same, although comparables to 2Q last year are tougher and variances are not as large. 4. Continues to see better pricing than at the same time last year and all signs point to yield improvement for 2Q08. 3. For 2H of the year, order book looks strong, with load factors not much different than at the same time last year, and pricing up very nicely. 4. Continues to receive good volumes and healthy rates for 2H of the year. 1. Believes, Co. is seeing a slight shortening of booking window. 2. Has benefited from this pattern with strength of close-in demand and will continue to monitor and analyze booking trends closely for any need to adjust revenue management approach. 3. In 1Q, Co. has benefited from pricing leverage by virtue of having less inventory to sell. 4. In 2H, even though Co. has good load factors, Co. has load factor leverage with strong pricing on the books. 5. At this point, Co. is comfortable forecasting yield improvement in all four quarters. 1. Guidance is for yield improvement of about 4% for the year. 6. CapEx based on existing ship orders for 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2011, is estimated to be $1.9b, $2b, $2.2b, and $1b respectively. 1. Projected capacity increases for same four years are estimated to be 5.1%, 9.3%, 11.4%, and 6.4% respectively. 6. Liquidity: 1. Liquidity at 12/31/07 was $1.4b comprised of $200m in cash and equivalents, and $1.2b available on revolver.

S3. RCL International (A.G.) 1. Results: 1. Pleased with 4Q07 results, particularly: 1. Close-in bookings strength that RVL International experienced throughout 4Q07. 2. Overall positive tone of current business. 2. Virtually all of Co.'s products in all four quarters of 2008 are in a favorable pricing position on YoverY basis. 3. Co.'s third Freedom-class ship, Independence of the Seas, is scheduled for delivery on 04/17/08. 1. Will operate from Southampton, UK for summer season. 4. Remaining three of four Radiance-class ships will undergo their diesel engine installation over next several months. 1. By June, all four ships will be consuming less fuel and purchasing fuel less expensively than they were prior to the installation. 2. This will be an important milestone in Co.'s ongoing efforts to control fuel and other costs. 2. Internationally Sourced Products: 1. Has enjoyed favorable load factors this winter in Australia, Asia, Brazil, and the Dominican Republic. 1. Three Vision-class ships that are delivering these programs will all enjoy significant YoverY net ticket revenue increases. 2. Co. will look to improve onboard revenue and costs as it gains experience with these programs.

S4. Celebrity Cruises (D.H.) 1. Travel Agent Surveys: 1. Dan Hanrahan served as the Chair of the marketing committee for Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) and reported survey results at annual press conference in New York two weeks ago. 1. Over 500 travel agents participated in the survey, which was conducted at the beginning of Jan. of this year. 2. Among many questions, they were asked for their outlook for 2008. 1. 90% predicted 2008 would be as good or better than 2007. 2. In a press release dated 01/18/08, Cruise Holidays, which is the oldest and largest cruise specialty retailer in North America, conducted a travel trend survey amongst their agents. 1. Found that 87% of the agents are optimistic about 2008. 2. Other Details: 1. Positive results Co. is seeing are being reinforced by the distribution system. 2. 2007 was a good year for the Celebrity brand and 2008 is shaping up to be even stronger. 3. Will have a full year of the new Azamara brand, which is starting to gain real traction in market. 4. Co. has been previewing its newest ship, Celebrity Solstice, which launches in 4Q to rave reviews. 1. Response from the distribution system and the consumer is very positive. 5. Remains focused on cost efforts. 1. Completed diesel installation, which allows to burn less fuel and purchase at lower costs. 6. In 2009, Co. will have the full benefit of Celebrity Solstice and half the year of Celebrity Equinox.

QUESTION AND ANSWER SUMMARY

OPERATOR: (OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS). Your first question comes from the line of Michael Savner, with Banc of America Securities.

MICHAEL SAVNER, ANALYST, BANC OF AMERICA SECURITIES: Thanks, good morning. Two quick questions, if I could. First, could you comment a little bit, Brian, on onboard spending trends? Obviously yesterday, Carnival made a little bit of news by mentioning the onboard spending among the higher end brands seem to be slowing a little bit. Can you comment at all, if you're seeing a similar type trend? And if the answer is no, can you maybe lead us down the road, to kind of figure out what the leading indicators would be, that if you start to see a little bit of slowdown in the consumer, where would you likely see that first? Is it onboard spending? Is it bookings on some of your shorter itinerary?

ADAM GOLDSTEIN, PRESIDENT - ROYAL CARIBBEAN INTERNATIONAL, ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.: Hi, Michael. It's Adam. I'll take that question. Our onboard revenue expectations are covered in the guidance that we've just given you. In the fourth quarter, our onboard revenue performance was slightly higher than what we had expected. There are too few data points in 2008, really, to see any changes in that trend. I think to your second question, we would naturally see things more in the ticket revenue, because we're looking forward, whereas on the onboard revenue we can only really relate to sailings that have already occurred. I would take-- our guidance with respect to ticket revenue is more indicative of what's out there in the future.

MICHAEL SAVNER: Terrific. Thanks. Then a second question, I think this one then, is for Brian. We notice order your balance sheet a pretty big surge in prepaid expenses. Sequentially year-over-year, and I even think on an historical basis. Can you just give us some clarity on what's included there, and why that's changed?

BRIAN RICE, EVP, CFO, ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.: Sure, Michael. Most of that is related to derivative positions that we have. The way we have to account for that is, it's an increase in both the asset and the liability. We've-- both our fuel derivatives, and our FX on our new ships, we've had some pretty good performance on, and that's the primary driver that you see on the balance sheet.

MICHAEL SAVNER: Terrific. Thanks very much.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from the line of Tim Conder, with Wachovia.

TIM CONDOR, ANALYST, WACHOVIA SECURITIES: Thank you. Yes, just a couple of questions. Continuing first on the onboard, you have over the last year or two, started taking advanced bookings for things like shore excursions, and other events. Anything, Adam, or Dan, or Brian, that you can derive from that, as far as forward-looking on onboard indications? And then secondly, could you, Brian maybe detail, what the 4 X benefit was overall in the fourth quarter and '07?

ADAM GOLDSTEIN: Tim, this is Adam. On your first question, although shore excursions are an important shipboard revenue stream, it's not important enough to be a bell weather, for what's going to happen overall, with shipboard revenue. It is our intention over time, to add the opportunity to book more of the onboard revenue stream products and services, but we're not there yet. So I don't think you can glean much from what's happening with shore ex alone.

TIM CONDOR: Okay.

BRIAN RICE: Tim, on the FX, we really haven't broken out the quantification benefits of FX. I can comment that unlike our primary competitor, where they have brands that are really focused in specific markets, FX is really part of the equations we're making our revenue management decisions, and where we want to source business from. So as a consequence, it's not as easy for us, other than for the Pullmantur brand, if you will, to really do a comparison year-over-year on the FX changes. But I think Greg's nodding. If you want to follow up with him after the call, he might be able to take you through it.

OPERATOR: Okay, and then lastly, could you expand a little bit? Brian, you had mentioned in the fourth quarter there were some additional investments that were made by the company in certain items.

BRIAN RICE: I think most of that, is just shoring up some of our systems with Pullmantur, on the Royal Caribbean brand we've made entry into Asia. We're setting up offices there. It's nothing too large, and it's pretty much part of our plan, but I would say it's attributed to timing differences, when the expenditure's actually cut.

TIM CONDOR: Okay, great. Thank you, gentlemen.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from the line of Robin Farley, with UBS.

ROBIN FARLEY, ANALYST, UBS: Thanks. A couple quick questions. One is just going back to the onboard revenues for a moment, I know you said Q4 was slightly higher than you expected. Can you comment on any change, specifically sort of in the month of December, versus earlier in the quarter, and any difference in December on certain brands, versus others?

ADAM GOLDSTEIN: Well, we are commenting on onboard on a macro basis, as we usually do, and we didn't see anything particular in any one of the three months of the fourth quarter that's notably different from the others. So on an overall basis, Q4 came in slightly stronger than expectations.

The other thing I'll add to that, and I don't think this is a surprise to you, in general, the strength that we've seen has been more clear, on the net ticket revenue side than on the net shipboard revenue side, in the recent quarters, also because the comparables to last year, net ticket revenues for these quarters are easier.

ROBIN FARLEY: Okay, great. And then in terms of expenses in '08, the guidance is that ex-fuel, they will be up 1% to 2%. Can you talk about what are the drivers of that, obviously outside of fuel, what are the drivers of your expenses in '08?

BRIAN RICE: Robin, it's Brian. I think one of the things that I really didn't get into, that I think is important to mention, because there has been such a focus on our cost management, to really stimulated last-- first quarter when we saw a little bit of softness on the demand side, and it's really stuck with our management team. Particularly in North America, we're seeing a tremendous amount of leverage, as our brands have really gained traction, as we're adding capacity on them.

While we don't want to break out our, what we call comparable in '07, I will tell you that we're looking at really flat expenses on the American brands in '08. A lot of the investments that we're putting in for next year, and that's driving some of the inflation, is some of the startup initiatives, adding some new markets, marketing associated with that, creating the infrastructure. Obviously we're not immune to some of the inflationary pressures that are out there.

We talk about fuel and the impact that fuel has on us, but that somewhat drives throughout the whole P&L. We have surcharges there being passed on in freight, comes in with our crew acquisition, so obviously we're feeling a lot of those pressures, but our management team has really been focused on it, trying to find offsets to the pressures that are out there.

ROBIN FARLEY: Thanks, and then just a last question real quick, is Pullmantur's been reported on a two-month lag. Now that it's been a year since the acquisition, will that lag stop? Will that line up with your reporting quarters?

BRIAN RICE: Robin, we've said all along that our first priority was to get Pullmantur on consistent systems with Royal Caribbean, and I can tell you that within the last month, our IT team has done a great job, and worked really hard to get our reservation system on a common platform for cruises, and we're in the process of switching Pullmantur over to our accounting system. We want to ensure that all those transitions occur smoothly.

We haven't pegged a date when we'll do the catchup, but we'll certainly make sure everyone's aware of that. I can tell you that the net effect of that catchup, will be an entry into other income and expense. It's not going to be where we're going to have to effect the entire P&L.

ROBIN FARLEY: Okay, great. Thank you.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from the line of Hakan Ipekci, with Merrill Lynch.

HAKAN IPEKCI, ANALYST, MERRILL LYNCH: Thank you. Two questions. The first one is, what's the impact of the fuel supplements on your net yields guidance? And what's your-- what sort of assumptions do you have with respect to acceptance?

BRIAN RICE: We're not breaking it out. I can tell you we're in the process internally within our revenue management team, really trying to understand it. From the consumer standpoint, we believe it's viewed largely as a price increase. We have talked about the fact that we have a very solid order book, with very healthy per diems on there, and obviously the fuel supplement is included in that. I think it's fair to say that we are getting a portion of that, that's helping us offset our fuel costs, but obviously there is an elasticity effect. It's not an exact science to be able to portend-- what is happening with that.

HAKAN IPEKCI: Is it fair to say you're assuming 100% of acceptance at this point, but if anything happens on pricing, that will move it either up or down?

BRIAN RICE: No, I think it's fair to assume that what we do is, we have very sophisticated analysis that we're looking at this on a bi-itinerary basis. Some areas we are seeing more acceptance of it than others, but what we're looking at is, what we have on the books, and what we're forecasting based on current booking trends, our ability to sell our future inventory at, and that's how it's all-- that's how we come up with our yield guidance. It's not that specifically broken out by fuel supplement, and ticket price.

HAKAN IPEKCI: I see. And the other question, with respect to capacity, I think relative to what you have said in the last call, there's been a slight drop in the '08 capacity, I think from 6.4% to 5.1%. What's driving that? And then can you provide us the quarterly capacity growth for '08?

BRIAN RICE: Yeah, I can tell you the major shift in '08 has been some additional dry dock that we'll be doing for Pullmantur. You saw the announcement of sovereign of the seas going Pullmantur, that affected it, because we'll be converting the ship, more to the appropriate Pullmantur brand. And we had, I believe one other specific longer dry dock that we (inaudible), Greg can certainly take you through the details of that. If you wouldn't mind following up with him--

HAKAN IPEKCI: Absolutely. And is it fair to assume that those dry docks would be happening in the latter part of the year, given your cost guidance first quarter versus the back half of the year?

BRIAN RICE: It's -- I believe there's a large one in the spring and then the Sovereign would be much later in the year. Again, I think Greg can give you specific time periods.

HAKAN IPEKCI: Okay, thank you.

BRIAN RICE: Thank you.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from the line of Steve Kent, with Goldman Sachs.

STEVE KENT, ANALYST, GOLDMAN SACHS: Hello, good morning. Can you just talk about some of the mix changes, so more Alaska, more Europe, less Caribbean. Are you-- I know the itineraries for this year, for '08, does that continue into '09 generally? But more importantly, are you getting the same pricing pickup in those higher end cruise itineraries, and then the same on the Freedom class ships, where you were getting a very good premium for a while too, is that still holding up?

ADAM GOLDSTEIN: Hello, Steve. It's Adam. I mentioned earlier that the Caribbean market has been a strong driver of our current yield performance increases, so it was a strong contributor to the very positive results in the fourth quarter, and it is also an important part of the guidance that we've given for the first quarter. The share of the Caribbean is going down about 5 points on a corporate basis, from just over 50%, to just under 50% of our total mix. And the other ones tend to be going up slightly accordingly.

We are expecting positive yield performance for all the major product groups. That includes Europe, where there's a 23% capacity increase, both for us, and coincidentally for the industry as well. We still expect highlighted by the performance of Independence of the Seas, to maintain slightly positive yields there. So there's not a material differentiation in yield performance by region.

STEVE KENT: And then the Freedom class ships still getting that strong pricing premium relative to the rest of the fleet?

ADAM GOLDSTEIN: Yes, the Freedom class ships continue to drive premium versus the rest of our fleet.

STEVE KENT: Okay, thank you.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from the line of Bob Simonson, with William Blair.

BOB SIMONSON, ANALYST, WILLIAM BLAIR: Good morning. Greg, do you have the capacity change by quarter yet for '08?

GREG JOHNSON, ASSOCIATE VICE PRESIDENT - INVESTOR RELATIONS, ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.: Bob, yes, I do. I can give that to you guys after the call.

BOB SIMONSON: Okay, and just a point of elaboration. Again, on that end board, onboard revenues, when you use different methods to incentivize the agents, one of them is to offer perhaps, onboard credits. When does that actually show up in the numbers, in terms of your guidance? I mean-- if you have given more of them, or less of them, would that influence how you look at the total yield assumption?

DAN HANRAHAN, PRESIDENT - CELEBRITY CRUISES, ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.: Bob, this is Dan. We do use onboard credits to incent consumers to buy, but that's factored into our thinking already. So our yield guidance that we've given, contemplates that may be one of the pricing levers that we pull.

BOB SIMONSON: Okay, very good. Thank you.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from the line of Felicia Hendrix, with Lehman Brothers.

FELICIA HENDRIX, ANALYST, LEHMAN BROTHERS: Hello, good morning, guys. Question on your fuel. The fuel prices that we track, have shown actually a decline in the first quarter, so I'm just wondering why you increased the hedges for the remainder of the year, and I don't know if it's too early to tell, but you did give us some kind of benefit-- you gave us the magnitude of benefit from your surcharges now, but if fuel decreases, is there a way we can kind of anticipate what that might cost you going forward?

BRIAN RICE: Felicia, it's Brian. I think one of the things, just in terms of our hedging strategy, we try not to adjust our strategy based on what we're seeing in terms of pricing fluctuations week over week. We're really not trying to speculate on the price of fuel. Our hedging really is, if you will, an insurance policy that we're taking out. We want to limit our exposure if fuel prices continue to escalate, but we also want to be able to anticipate any savings if fuel prices come down, and we've said that we think being hedged 40% to 60% is really the appropriate amount for us on a 12-month go-forward basis. That's how we're approaching our hedging strategy. I'm sorry. The second part of your question?

FELICIA HENDRIX: I was just wondering if you could give us some kind of metric, whereby we can gauge if fuel prices move, against you, what that would cost you, vis-a-vis the hedges?

RICHARD FAIN, CHAIRMAN, CEO, ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD.: Felicia, I think we have given here the impact of the 10% change, would be--

FELICIA HENDRIX: Okay. So that's with the hedges, okay.

RICHARD FAIN: That includes the impact of the hedges.

FELICIA HENDRIX: Okay.

RICHARD FAIN: Of course if we -- as Brian says, we're hedging as we go forward, so some old hedges fall off, but in fact if you follow what we've done in the past, that statistic has been pretty accurate, pretty useful gauge of what actually happens.

FELICIA HENDRIX: Okay, thank you. And then just housekeeping, there was a $12 million gain in operating income. I was wondering if you could tell us what that was?

BRIAN RICE: Felicia, that was tied mainly to FX gains we had.

FELICIA HENDRIX: Okay. Thank you. That's it.

BRIAN RICE: Okay.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from the line of Steve Wieczynski, with Stifel Nicolaus. Please go ahead.

STEVE WIECZYNSKI, ANALYST, STIFEL NICOLAUS: Good morning. Real quick question for Adam, touch on it real quick in terms of once Independence gets-- moves over to South Hampton this summer, what kind of demand have you seen so far for that ship, just because it's a ship of that size, and never really been seen in that region before?

ADAM GOLDSTEIN: The demand that we've seen so far is terrific, as I alluded to earlier. The immediate reception when we announced her intended deployment to the U.K. market, about almost a year ago, was very positive and has never abated.

So we have built up experience over recent years. First we had Legend of the Seas operating that program for a couple of years, this past year Navigator of the Seas, and now Independence. And Independence is performing very well, even in relation to the strong performance of Navigator of the Seas this past year.

STEVE WIECZYNSKI: Okay, great. Thanks.

RICHARD FAIN: Steve, if I could just add to that, because I think it gives me an opportunity to comment in general, people look at the big ship and talk about something dramatically different. In fact, replacing Navigator with Independence only added about 15% capacity. So we have really been, fairly consistently evolutionary in these types of things, and it's not as though that case, or in other cases we have these dramatic jumps in ship sizes. That's a good example.

STEVE WIECZYNSKI: Okay, great. Thanks, guys.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from the line of Scott Barry, with Credit Suisse.

SCOTT BARRY, ANALYST, CREDIT SUISSE: Hello. You mentioned, I think you mentioned that pricing on the books across all four quarters is up, year-over-year, and you said you were seeing some shrinkage in the book to departure window. Could you comment on where you are in terms of book load factor across each four quarters, whether you're ahead or behind? Thanks.

BRIAN RICE: Hello, Scott. What we've traditionally done is given an outlook on two, maybe three quarters out, and we're trying, I think simply because of all the uncertainty in the marketplace, give you a little bit more insight, into what's happening in waves. The graph certainly provides you with, I think directionally, where we are from Q1 and Q2.

What we've said is for the second half of the year, and I would say that we're not seeing fundamental differences by quarter, that we're pretty much where we were a year ago, for the second half, and, yes, pricing is up very nicely in the second half. So I would also point out that I know seven are comparable. We're probably seeing load factors, certainly for the last decade at the higher levels that we've seen in the past, and I think, obviously, there's different products that are behaving differently, and I've seen some analysts commenting where they see some discounts in certain markets. I think you're always going to expect to see that, as we're constantly making trade-offs between rate and volume. But when you aggregate it all up on the volume side, we're basically where we were a year ago. And on the rate side, we're up quite nicely.

SCOTT BARRY: Okay, great. And then your forecast obviously assumes a fairly stable revenue environment. Maybe you could comment on how flexible your non-fixed expense cost structure is, and whether you have thought about, or what you can do, to maybe offset a weaker revenue environment, if it does manifest itself later this year?

BRIAN RICE: Well, I think two things. I-- when you say we're forecasting a certain economic environment, you know, we, again, take what's on our books and we're also digesting what is happening in the marketplace on a perpetual basis, and we're trying to do more than just read what happened last week. We're trying to understand trends, and what that may bode for the future. That's all integrated in our yield forecast we provided.

I think the best way to talk about what we can do on the cost side, is to point back to last year. In the first quarter of last year, we had a yield decline, as I recall, in the range of about 4%, and we were able to come in significantly under our cost guidance. I think, you know, we have a management team now that's very, very focused on costs for--

SCOTT BARRY: I'm not sure where you're coming up with under your cost guidance. Maybe on a comparable basis, but really Pullmantur is part of the business now, and it looks like based on what I'm seeing on your cost guidance has pretty consistently been above-- your cost performance has pretty consistently been above, your cost guidance historically.

BRIAN RICE: Last first quarter is what I'm referring to when we saw a downturn in the revenue environment, which is when we were able to, really mitigate a lot of the costs we've recently had. I think if you go back and look at Q1, that's when we-- Q4, we came in above our guidance, but if you look at the first three quarters of last year, costs were effectively flat.

SCOTT BARRY: And I assume, Brian, you're referring to the comparable basis, versus including Pullmantur-- Pullmantur's part of the business, right?

BRIAN RICE: Right, but it's not in the prior year. So I can't compare Pullmantur, because we have a tour company, where you have substantial costs without any (inaudible)-- so in order to compare '07 to '06, you really need to look at it on a comparable basis.

SCOTT BARRY: I'm just referring to the guidance that you gave in the first quarter of '07. You gave, net cruise cost guidance of I believe 4% to 5%. You came in above that level. And whether it's due to Pullmantur, or whether it's on a comparable basis, right?

BRIAN RICE: I do--

SCOTT BARRY: Pullmantur was part of the business in the first quarter of '07.

BRIAN RICE: Correct, you're correct. Scott, I can tell you that as I recall in the first quarter of last year, and I remember talking about this on the call, we had a difference in the components that we forecasted for Pullmantur between revenue and expenses, for our company--

SCOTT BARRY: We can take it off line. I apologize.

BRIAN RICE: That's what was driving that.

SCOTT BARRY: Okay.

BRIAN RICE: I can tell you overall, we did see an ability to manage our costs, but I do want to caution you, we're not managing our business quarter to quarter. We're going to do what we need for the long-term, and make the right investments, but I think there is a degree in which we have demonstrated we can offset--

RICHARD FAIN: Actually, one other thing, Scott, which actually gives me a chance to just comment on, since Brian said we didn't discuss some of that on the calls last year, too. Tour business, obviously a fundamentally different business. In many cases-- new, different tours, or less tours have significant increases on both revenue and the expense lines, which tend to be unpredictable, and have relatively modest effect on the bottom line. That is the confusion factor-- (inaudible) and that's also going to be a big component.

SCOTT BARRY: Okay. Fair enough. Understood. Thanks.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from the line of Assia Georgieva, with Infinity Research.

ASSISA GEORGIEVA, ANALYST, INFINITY RESEARCH: Good morning. I wanted to congratulate you on an excellent job in terms of yield management and forward guidance. And sort of to follow up on the Pullmantur question, if you look at the past year, you have had the business for sometime now. What are some of, some of the positives that you have seen above prior expectations, and then specifically some items that you can further work on, in order to streamline that business, and make it as efficient as your North American business?

RICHARD FAIN: Thank you, Assia. It's Richard, and I'll comment. We have had a-- it's actually been a very positive experience overall. We see a lot more opportunities in terms of growing the business, in markets that we haven't seen before-- (inaudible) we've already shifted three ships into the Pullmantur brand in Spain, (inaudible) we have also started a brand in France based on (inaudible) and I think that offers some terrific opportunities. We're seeing some benefits also in Latin America, which we think (inaudible), and of course we get the benefits of the strong Euro, which helps.

We have seen more difficulty in terms of, (inaudible) up to the platform needed to absorb that kind of growth in order to capitalize on the kinds of (inaudible). So administratively, back office type issues are much, much, bigger than we thought they were, and it's taking us longer to turn those around. But we're seeing them turn around, as Brian mentioned, a big change was starting at the beginning of this year, putting Pullmantur on the Royal Caribbean (inaudible). I think taking this longer to get the back office side, in effect we also see growth potential, the opportunity to go into new markets as better than expected. The balance, I'm more pleased now than I was a year ago when we first (inaudible).

ASSISA GEORGIEVA: Okay, excellent. Thank you so much, Richard.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from the line of Pat Schaffer, with Chartwell.

PAT SCHAFFER, ANALYST, CHARTWELL: Hello, guys. You stated that booking trends happen, and continued to be strong, and that close-end bookings are also strong. I was hoping you could provide any color on cancellation trends in the fourth quarter, and thus far in January.

DAN HANRAHAN: Hello, Pat, it's Dan.

PAT SCHAFFER: Hello, Dan.

DAN HANRAHAN: We haven't seen any change in cancellations. We've been really pleased with the bookings. They seem to be actually sticking quite well, and if we had had any kind of increased cancellations in the fourth quarter, we wouldn't have been able to produce the kind of results that we did.

PAT SCHAFFER: And that's been consistent thus far in January as well?

DAN HANRAHAN: Yeah, we're very pleased with what we've been seeing.

PAT SCHAFFER: Okay. That's it, Dan. Thanks.

DAN HANRAHAN: You bet.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from the line of [Rahad Meetal], with Blue Bay Asset Management.

RAHAD MEETAL, ANALYST, BLUE BAY ASSET MANAGEMENT: Yes, hello. Just two questions really. First, if you have seen any trends in the geographical breakup of your sales origination, either in terms of volume or value? And secondly, on the fuel price, if maybe you could give us an indication of the levels at which you have hedged relative to, hedged to levels last year, if that makes sense?

ADAM GOLDSTEIN: Hi, this is Adam. On the macro basis, your question on geographical sourcing. The story of our company over these years is clearly a shift in the direction of sourcing more from international market. In fact, if you look at 2005 to 2008, in that period as a corporation, we will have gone from sourcing under 15% from outside North America, to sourcing over 25% from outside North America. So that's the macro level. We don't see anything on a micro level in terms of what's happening in the wave, that I would say is worth commenting on.

RAHAD MEETAL: So there's no-- so the U.S., for instance, isn't any weaker than you would have expected it to be?

ADAM GOLDSTEIN: No, and our guidance, I would say, reflects that.

RAHAD MEETAL: Right, okay.

BRIAN RICE: As it relates to the fuel, we don't break out the various contracts, or even the average contract that we have hedged at for this year, or last year, but I think we've given you enough in terms of where we are in terms of our hedge position, and what we, what our price of fuel would be going forward. So you can probably work with that, and get reasonably close, in terms of the type of hedging we've been able to do.

RAHAD MEETAL: All right, thank you. Thanks.

BRIAN RICE: Celeste, we have time for one more question, please.

OPERATOR: Okay. Your next question comes from the line of Henrick Shultz, with (inaudible).

HENRICK SCHULTZ, ANALYST: Yes, good morning to you. Just a couple clarifying questions relating to the surcharge. Firstly, could you comment a little bit about the timing of the implementation, not in terms of where it's going to be implemented by the first of February, but where it's going to be recognized in terms of revenue, and also the net effect of the travel agent compensation, whether for example the compensation will be paid? Anyway, some details on that, please.

BRIAN RICE: Okay. As it relates to the fuel supplement, you're correct. The first sailing that it impacts is February 1st. The revenue will be recognized as with our ticket revenue in the month that it's actually earned. So when they-- when the ship sales, we'll recognize that.

In terms of travel agent compensation, we did announce that when we implemented the fuel surcharge for any retroactive bookings, the fuel surcharge was applied to, we would be paying, I believe a $12 per booking administrative fee to the travel agents who had to go out, and collect that on our behalf. But there is, similar to taxes and fees that we collect, there's not a variable compensation component associated with the fuel supplement.

HENRICK SCHULTZ: This compensation would be payable regardless whether the fuel supplement actually sticks, or-- I take it?

BRIAN RICE: We've, we've agreed to pay a $12 per booking for the agents who actually collect the $12 for us.

HENRICK SCHULTZ: Okay. Lastly, then, could you add some details about your plans for the (inaudible) Corporation going forward, in terms of additional bookings from that market, and also marketing spend, marketing support plans, please?

RICHARD FAIN: You were talking about the recently announced joint venture?

HENRICK SCHULTZ: Yes.

RICHARD FAIN: With [Tuoin], in Germany. It's early days. We still have to get-- and so I think that process, and I think as with other joint ventures, we have to do joint ventures (inaudible), but it's too early for us to comment while we're still finalizing--

HENRICK SCHULTZ: Okay. Thank you very much.

RICHARD FAIN: Great. Thank you, all, for joining us today. If you have any further questions or any follow-ups or need some additional details, Greg will be available throughout the day, and we certainly wish everybody a wonderful day. Thank you.

OPERATOR: This concludes today's conference call. You may now disconnect.

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Company / organization: Name: Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd; Ticker: RCL; NAICS: 551112, 483112; Name: Celebrity Cruises; NAICS: 483112; Name: Wachovia Securities Inc; NAICS: 523110; Name: Merrill Lynch & Co; Ticker: MER; NAICS: 523120; SIC: 6211, 6221; DUNS: 06-496-8043; Name: Thomson Financial; NAICS: 551111

Publication title: Fair Disclosure Wire; Linthicum

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 30, 2008

Publisher: CQ Roll Call

Place of publication: Linthicum

Country of publication: United States, Linthicum

Publication subject: Business And Economics, Law--Corporate Law

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

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Document 37 of 313

January 31, 2008 (Page 10 of 76)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]31 Jan 2008: 10.

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Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 35

First page: 10

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 31, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

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Document 38 of 313

Brazil's Carnaval pushes bounds of taste, eccentricity

Author: Chang, Jack

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune News Service ; Washington [Washington]31 Jan 2008: 1.

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Abstract:

"To mix dancers and floats with the Holocaust is to make it banal," said Sergio Niskier, the president of the Israelite Federation of Rio de Janeiro State. "It's sensationalizing something that can't be treated this way."

"This is against violence," he said of the banned float. "The way we've done it, I don't think it's in bad taste."

"What we've lost in simplicity with these Carnavals, we've made up in size and originality," [Andre Diniz] said. "The critic is powerless this Carnaval."(c) 2008, McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.PHOTOS (from MCT Photo Service, 202-383-6099): BRAZIL CARNIVAL

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RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil -- Giant unicorns, half-naked models and other spectacles are par for the course in Rio de Janeiro's annual Carnaval parade, so Paulo Barros has made a career out of pushing the world-famous event's outrageousness to new heights -- or depths.

Even by Brazil's relaxed standards, this year's parade threatens to set a new standard for bad taste and weirdness as entrants spend millions of dollars competing for attention and sponsorship deals.

One samba school wants to launch a float piled high with fake corpses in reference to the Holocaust. Another school will be led by a model who aims to have set a record for the number of cosmetic surgeries performed on one person.

Even many jaded Brazilians think such displays are over the top, and they're complaining that Barros and other directors of samba schools that stage the annual parades have gone too far. The five- day Carnaval begins Friday.

Barros and his Viradouro samba school want to unveil a spectacle Sunday night on the theme of "goose bumps" that will feature, along with the Holocaust float, 28 people tied upside down to crucifixes and dancers in cockroach costumes.

On Thursday, Rio de Janeiro state's main Jewish federation won a court injunction prohibiting the school from sending out the float under the penalty of tens of thousands of dollars in fines.

A spokesman said the federation decided to sue after discovering that the school planned to have an Adolf Hitler impersonator along with the pile of "corpses."

"To mix dancers and floats with the Holocaust is to make it banal," said Sergio Niskier, the president of the Israelite Federation of Rio de Janeiro State. "It's sensationalizing something that can't be treated this way."

In her decision, Judge Juliana Kalichszteim wrote that Carnaval "shouldn't be used as a tool for the cult of hate, any form of racism, besides the clear banalization of barbaric events."

Over his decade-long career, Barros has gotten more people talking than perhaps any other Carnaval designer. Instead of the giant, sequined animals and castles typical of other schools, he's put feathered dancers atop mounds of old Volkswagen Beetles and built towering floats out of pots and pans.

Some of his competitors, though, think that he's gone overboard this time.

"This is not what Carnaval is about," said Roberto Szaniecki, the director of the Grande Rio samba school and himself of Jewish descent. "We want to have a party and sing and dance, and to put the Holocaust into that environment is not right."

Barros argues that even the Holocaust can become a Carnaval float if it's handled right.

"This is against violence," he said of the banned float. "The way we've done it, I don't think it's in bad taste."

Bad taste or not, the freak show will go on Sunday night. Among the other five samba schools that are parading in the 60,000-seat Sambadrome stadium will be Porto da Pedra, which will feature model and lingerie designer Angela Bismarchi this year. She's best known for having undergone more cosmetic surgeries than any other Brazilian, which in a nation obsessed with improving on nature is saying something. (The world record for plastic surgeries is 47, held by American Cindy Jackson.)

Last Monday, in Bismarchi's 42nd operation, her eyes were altered to look more Asian in order to help Porto da Pedra commemorate a century of Japanese emigration to Brazil.

Her plastic surgeon husband, Wagner Moraes, ran wires from the outside corners of her eyes under the skin of her temples to staples in front of her ears. Minutes before the parade Sunday, he'll tighten the wires to elongate her eyes further.

"We're all trying to draw the most attention," Bismarchi said. "For me, recognition is the biggest reward."

Such assaults on good taste sprout from the fierce competition that surrounds Carnaval, which draws hundreds of thousands of visitors and tens of millions of dollars in revenue, said Andre Diniz, who's written a history of Brazil's annual event.

Winning samba schools are rewarded with lucrative sponsorship deals for next year's parade and draw large crowds to their pre- Carnaval rehearsals. Diniz estimated that each of the main parade's 12 samba schools spends more than $2 million to put on the event, which features thousands of costumed dancers and elaborate floats.

"The spectacle has become a product sold to the entire world now," Diniz said. "Today, you have a big, popular opera, where you have theater, music, celebrities and things that will get people talking."

Last year, the school Unidos da Tijuca got people talking by re- creating Nick Ut's Pulitzer Prize-winning Vietnam War photograph of 9-year-old Kim Phuc being burned by napalm. A dancer in a bodysuit played Kim, while dancers in bright-orange flame costumes swirled around her.

Some of this year's floats are merely strange. The samba school Grande Rio, for example, will enter a feathered-and-sequined celebration of -- natural gas.

Why natural gas? Because the school's top sponsor this year is the energy-producing city of Coari in the Amazon. The school's entry will describe the use of natural gas from ancient Babylon to a fantastical, energy-green city that looks a lot like present-day Coari.

"What we've lost in simplicity with these Carnavals, we've made up in size and originality," Diniz said. "The critic is powerless this Carnaval."(c) 2008, McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.PHOTOS (from MCT Photo Service, 202-383-6099): BRAZIL CARNIVAL

For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800- 374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Credit: McClatchy Newspapers

People: Barros, Paulo Diniz, Andre

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune News Service; Washington

First page: 1

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jan 31, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

ProQuest document ID: 456848520

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Copyright: (c) 2008, McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. Distributed byKnight Ridder/Tribune Information Services.

Last updated: 2018-02-21

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 39 of 313

World - Thursday

Publication info: Investor's Business Daily ; Los Angeles [Los Angeles]01 Feb 2008.

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Abstract:

Ahead of Rio de Janeiro's raucous Carnival parade, a judge barred a samba group from featuring a float decorated like a pile of corpses and a dancer dressed as Adolf Hitler.

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U.S. drone tied to Pakistan strike

A missile strike this week killed up to 13 foreign fighters in North Waziristan and had targeted second- or third-tier al-Qaida leaders, according to residents of the tribal area. An unnamed official told Reuters that the attack was believed to have been carried out by a pilotless Predator aircraft flown from across the nearby border with Afghanistan. Pakistani authorities have not confirmed the attack; Predators are operated by the CIA.

IRAQ: A car bomb struck a Shiite area of Baghdad, killing at least 5. In the southern city of Basra, rockets slammed a British base and killed a number of Iraqi civilians lining up for work. 3 British soldiers were lightly injured.

BRAZIL: Ahead of Rio de Janeiro's raucous Carnival parade, a judge barred a samba group from featuring a float decorated like a pile of corpses and a dancer dressed as Adolf Hitler.

Publication title: Investor's Business Daily; Los Angeles

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 1, 2008

Section: World

Publisher: Investor's Business Daily, Inc.

Place of publication: Los Angeles

Country of publication: United States, Los Angeles

Publication subject: Business And Economics--Investments

ISSN: 10612890

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 1033566468

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login? url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/1033566468?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2008 Investor's Business Daily, Inc.

Last updated: 2012-08-16

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 40 of 313

February 1, 2008 (Page 2 of 112)

Publication info: Asheville Citizen-Times (1991-2011) ; Asheville, North Carolina [Asheville, North Carolina]01 Feb 2008: 2.

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Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Asheville Citizen-Times (1991-2011); Asheville, North Carolina

Volume: 139

Issue: 32

First page: 2

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 1, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Asheville, North Carolina

Country of publication: United States, Asheville, North Carolina

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 1060-3255

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: Englis h

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2125842841

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Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Feb 1, 2008

Last updated: 2018-10-27

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 41 of 313

February 1, 2008 (Page 10 of 163)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]01 Feb 2008: 10.

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Abstract: None available.

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Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 36

First page: 10

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 1, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2226218891

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Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Feb 1, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-16

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 42 of 313

RIO JUDGE BANS FLOAT DEPICTING HOLOCAUST: [BROWARD METRO EDITION]

Author: Astor, Michael

Publication info: South Florida Sun - Sentinel ; Fort Lauderdale, Fla. [Fort Lauderdale, Fla]01 Feb 2008: A.20.

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Rio de Janeiro state Judge Juliana Kalichszteim called Viradouro's plans a "clear trivialization of barbaric events."

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There will be no simulated pile of naked, emaciated corpses - and no dancing Hitler - at the world's biggest street party.

A judge on Thursday blocked a carnival float meant to show that the Holocaust "gives you goose bumps."

Viradouro, the top Rio samba group responsible for the float, said it was designed to remind carnival visitors of past horrors to prevent them from happening again.

But Jewish leaders were outraged. The Jewish Federation of Rio de Janeiro sued under federal laws prohibiting Nazi propaganda and racism in Brazil, said Lara Voges, a court spokeswoman.

"It's inadmissible that they could have a parade float depicting dead Jews and a live Hitler on top of them," said federation spokesman Jose Roitberg.

Rio de Janeiro state Judge Juliana Kalichszteim called Viradouro's plans a "clear trivialization of barbaric events."

Carnival "should not be used as a tool for the cult of hate, any form of racism," the judge said.

Rio's two-night Samba parade, featuring thousands of scantily clad and elaborately plumed dancers, is the high point of Brazil's carnival celebrations and is televised nationally in a country of 185 million people.

During the event, Rio's 12 top-tier samba groups each present an 80-minute parade featuring hundreds of drummers and thousands of dancers to compete to be the year's champion.

Each group chooses a theme reflected in music, costumes and floats.

Viradouro, which is scheduled to parade early Monday, chose the theme, "It Gives You Goose Bumps," featuring floats depicting the shock of birth and cold, along with the pile of Holocaust victims.

Although the samba group refused to say whether it had planned to have a dancing Hitler, it was listed in the official parade description as part of the float.

According to Kalichszteim's decision, the group would face fines of $113,000 if it ignored her order by parading with the mannequins and $28,000 for each dancer dressed as Hitler.

News of the float drew worldwide attention. Earlier this week, the Simon Wiesenthal Center, an international Jewish human rights organization, issued a statement of protest.

On Wednesday, a second-division samba group agreed to remove swastikas from dancers' costumes following complaints. { SB

Publication title: South Florida Sun - Sentinel; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Pages: A.20

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 1, 2008

Dateline: RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil

Section: News

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: NEWSPAPER

ProQuest document ID: 387623795

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Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by the Sun-Sentinel)

Last updated: 2017-11-09

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 43 of 313

Carnaval Arrives Early This Year, Too Soon for Brazil; A Move Is Afoot to Delink It From the Lunar Calendar And Fix a Date in March

Author: Regalado, Antonio

Publication info: Wall Street Journal , Eastern edition; New York, N.Y. [New York, N.Y]02 Feb 2008: A.1.

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RIO DE JANEIRO -- Brazil's annual Carnaval celebration starts today, turning the decaying center of this former capital city into a cacophony of drums and samba. It's a time when ordinary rules don't apply. Poor and rich dance together. Even marriage vows are said to be widely suspended.

None of that bothers Hiram Araujo, a 78-year-old gynecological surgeon who is the closest thing Rio has to an official historian of its big party. But there's one thing about Carnaval he doesn't like: the scheduling of the holiday.

The festival here gets under way 50 days before Easter Sunday, a movable date based on the lunar calendar, this year March 23. That's the earliest Easter has been since 1913. For Mr. Araujo, who is cultural director for Rio's powerful Independent League of Samba Schools, that means a premature end to the summer tourist season and an "economic disaster" for the city.

"You'll see," he says, "After this, everyone will be gone."

Mr. Araujo is leading a radical campaign to have Carnaval begin on the first Sunday in March every year. The idea has the backing of Brazil's hotel association, and most travel agencies here seem to like it, too. The thinking is that an early Carnaval means vacationers will not have had enough time to regain their financial footing after Christmas and New Year's.

Mr. Araujo wants a national "Brazilian Carnaval" law. Under its provisions, cities could start their festivities according to "tourist, economic or climate-related considerations."

The two-year-old fixed-date movement is up against more than 1,000 years of tradition. In Europe sometime during the Dark Ages, the feast day became linked to the Catholic calendar. In places that maintain the Catholic traditions, including New Orleans where Carnaval is known as Mardi Gras, the celebration immediately precedes Ash Wednesday.

The moving date causes confusion in the U.S., too. "Most of my emails are all about when is Mardi Gras and why is it on that date," says Bobbi Mannino, who works at Compucast Interactive, a New Orleans company that operates a Web site for Mardi Gras tourists. But she says she never heard anyone in the Big Easy talk about doing it differently.

The Catholic Church has doubts about any changes. Fixing Carnaval's date in March would mean that, in many years, the festival's drag queens and tipsy revelers could hit Rio's streets in the middle of Lent, the period of fasting and prayer leading up to Easter Sunday. Canon Aroldo da Silva Ribeiro, the head priest at Rio's modernist Cathedral, predicts removing the festival from the ecclesiastical cycle of holy and profane would make it just another party.

"It wouldn't be Carnaval anymore," he says. "It wouldn't have the same glamour."

In some other countries, the date of the festival known as Carnival (with an i) in English isn't so controversial. In Japan, crowds of around 400,000 turn out in August to watch 11 major samba schools parade, a tradition imported from Brazil in 1981. Finland's carnival takes place in June. "Otherwise, it would be Carnival for Eskimos," says Harri Engstrand, head of international affairs for Finland's samba school association.

The drive in Brazil for a fixed date is the result of Carnaval's transformation in recent decades from an unruly street party into a big-time commercial spectacle. The proceedings were first televised in a small way in 1960. Later, work was completed on the 70,000-seat Sambadrome, spurring a drive for ever larger and more elaborate floats to wow viewers.

The rising costs of putting on the show invited still more commercialism. Nowadays, universities here even offer degrees in Carnaval management. In 2005, Rio unveiled the $50 million Samba City, a new home for the top 12 samba schools -- social organizations that build the floats and then parade with as many as 6,000 dancers and drummers in a competition to be chosen champion.

The estimated 700,000 visitors expected this year will spend $510 million in the city, according to Rio's tourism office. And government economists are looking for other ways to boost its profitability.

Mr. Araujo began studying Carnaval's history during Brazil's dictatorship, in 1964. He says that after writing an article praising Fidel Castro, he was threatened with imprisonment and forced to "find a new hobby" outside politics. Now his mastery of Carnaval's history is helping him to make the case for a fixed date. Rattling off how musical styles, rules and practices have changed since 1783, he says that "Carnaval today is a science. It's not a party anymore."

His ideas are getting a boost from this year's unusually early start date. "I first heard about the idea from him," says Carlos Ernesto Lopes, a coordinator of Carnaval in Cabo Frio, a resort of 170,000 people that has about a million visitors during Brazil's summer -- December to March. For many Brazilians, Carnaval, like Labor Day in the U.S., signals the end of vacation time. Since there are still seven weeks of summer left before March 21, Mr. Lopes predicts a "huge loss" for the town this year.

A poll by the Rio chapter of Brazil's association of travel agents found 81% of them believed they will lose money because of the early Carnaval this year. But Carlos Alberto Amorim Ferreira, national head of the group, says his mind isn't made up. "People forget it's a religious holiday, because they celebrate like it was a pagan one," he says.

Now Mr. Araujo thinks a bold political stroke may be needed. In late January, he presented his idea for a new national Carnaval law to Marcelo Bezerra Crivella, a senator from Rio de Janeiro, and also a bishop in one of Brazil's most powerful evangelical Protestant churches. Although Carnaval is a "devil's party" to many evangelicals, they also share a fierce rivalry with Catholics. "It would help to be allied with them," says Mr. Araujo.

Brazil's Catholic Church, making its first pronouncement on the matter, isn't strictly opposed to a new date for the samba processions, says Dom Dimas Lara Barbosa, secretary general of Brazil's National Conference of Catholic Bishops. But, he says, a new date must come earlier, not later, to avoid occurring during Lent. He suggests January.

View Image - Enlarge this image.

Subject: Scheduling; Mardi Gras

Location: Brazil

Classification: 1220: Social trends & culture; 9173: Latin America

Publication title: Wall Street Journal, Eastern edition; New York, N.Y.

Pages: A.1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 2, 2008

Publisher: Dow Jones & Company Inc

Place of publication: New York, N.Y.

Country of publication: United States, New York, N.Y.

Publication subject: Business And Economics--Banking And Finance

ISSN: 00999660

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 399092366

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/399092366?accountid=4840

Copyright: (c) 2008 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. Reproduced with permission of copyright owner. Further reproduction or distribution is prohibited without permission.

Last updated: 2017-11-02

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Major Dailies

Document 44 of 313

CULTURE MIX; A deeper brown; A rich exhibition explores blacks' influence on Mexican culture.

Author: Gurza, Agustin

Publication info: Los Angeles Times ; Los Angeles, Calif. [Los Angeles, Calif]02 Feb 2008: E.1.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

The influence is unmistakable in the rhythms of the son jarocho and the architecture of round huts with thatched roofs in the Costa Chica, a coastal region south of Acapulco with a strong African presence that is documented in the striking portraits by African American photographer Tony Gleaton.

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Considering all the recent speculation about hostility between blacks and Latinos, you have to cringe when you hear what happened to historian Christopher West on a working trip south of the border four years ago. The African American academic was helping research the influence of tourism on children in Isla Mujeres, an idyllic island near Cancun, when a local boy on the street threw a piece of pan dulce at him.

The insult (not the first he had encountered) might be seen as more evidence of that racial animosity, currently fueling the notion that some Latinos are cool to Sen. Barack Obama because he's black. But West considered the gesture an anomaly and went on to shoot some hoops with his Mexican friends and colleagues.

In fact, the historian says he's been accepted as family in some parts of Mexico, thanks to his wife, Ilda Jimenez, a Mexican American anthropologist he met when they were students at USC. The union of the two communities is reflected in their surname, which they changed to Jimenez y West. Today, as history curator at the California African American Museum, Christopher Jimenez y West continues to explore the often overlooked cultural connections between the country's two largest minorities. This week, he was busy preparing for the opening of a groundbreaking exhibition, "The African Presence in Mexico: From Yanga to the Present," which celebrates what is called the Third Root of Mexican culture, adding African to the mix of European and native Indian.

Through paintings, photos, lithographs and historical texts, the visiting exhibition tries to dispel the myth that blacks had a minimal influence on the culture of our southern neighbor, a myth held by many Mexicans either through ignorance or prejudice. In addition, two related exhibitions explore the connections between blacks and Latinos in the U.S., highlighting shared social roots in leftist politics and showcasing local collaborations between African American and Latino artists.

News about racially charged street killings and campus brawls tends to overshadow the day-to-day, positive interactions between the two communities in Los Angeles, says Jimenez y West. "Part of the tension is simply the result of people being uninformed, at all levels," he says. "The reality is this is a long-standing conversation."

You could call it perfect timing for the exhibit to open on the eve of Super Tuesday. But the idea originated more than 10 years ago at the National Museum of Mexican Art in Chicago, where it was first shown in 2006. It's been more of a mission than an exhibition for Cesareo Moreno, the Chicago museum's visual arts director, who co-curated the show with Sagrario del Carmen Cruz Carretero, a Mexican anthropologist. Moreno's passion was evident as he gave me a preview at the museum, located in Exposition Park. He gestured like a conductor, still excited about his discoveries.

"This topic, this idea, this truth, if it gets out there, has so much potential for people to understand one another and themselves better," says Moreno. "The history lesson in these galleries is extremely powerful."

If ignorance is the problem and art the solution, then this exhibit should be a required field trip for schools from now until it closes on June 1. I consider myself relatively well-informed about the cultural contributions of blacks in Latin America, especially the irresistible music coming from countries (Cuba, Brazil, Peru, Colombia) on the routes of the slave trade. Like many, I thought the African influence in Mexico was limited to the Caribbean coast, especially Veracruz.

Think again. The exhibition illustrates the depth and reach of African culture. You suddenly see African features in a pre-Hispanic Olmec sculpture or in the faces of miners from the central Mexican state of Guanajuato. The influence is unmistakable in the rhythms of the son jarocho and the architecture of round huts with thatched roofs in the Costa Chica, a coastal region south of Acapulco with a strong African presence that is documented in the striking portraits by African American photographer Tony Gleaton.

It's in this region, straddling the states of Guerrero and Oaxaca, that Moreno was first struck by a part of Mexican culture that had seemed invisible to him until then. How many times had he hung that 1910 photo by Agustin Casasola of a Mexican revolutionary, "Portrait of a Female Soldier From Michoacan," and still not seen it? "I was blown away that it had never before crossed my mind that this woman is of African descent," he says. "I felt like an idiot. There she was staring me in the face and I had never recognized her before."

Racism has led to denial in Mexico, where the census doesn't even have a category for counting blacks and even Afro-Mexicans prefer to be called brown or Cuban, according to the exhibition's meticulous and beautiful companion book. At the same time, Moreno notes, interracial marriage has helped blur race lines in Mexico almost since the Spaniards arrived.

Still, Mexico has had its Afro-Mexican heroes, including President Vicente Guerrero, who outlawed slavery in 1829, a move that helped spark the confrontation with Texas, a slave state, and the subsequent war with the United States. (Like Lincoln, Guerrero was assassinated.)

The first organized efforts to celebrate Afro-Mexican culture didn't come until the 1990s. Today it's the focus of carnival celebrations in the Veracruz city of Yanga, named after an African who led a rebellion of runaway slaves, called cimarrones.

The two complementary exhibitions bring the history home. In "Who Are We Now: Roots, Resistance, Recognition," we learn that the Harlem Renaissance took some inspiration from Mexico's revolutionary muralists and that Langston Hughes, the inspired African American poet, wrote his first short story, "Mexican Games," while living in Mexico. Hughes, the text tells us, "enjoyed social freedoms in Mexico that he was denied in the U.S."

"Common Ground" was added for Los Angeles and features 20 Latino and African American artists exploring black/brown relationships. They include John Outterbridge and Jane Castillo, a Colombian born in East L.A., who collaborated on an installation in the lobby, a tall cylinder made of multicolored rags tied together with knots, symbolizing the region's cultural fabric. They call it "Outcast," a play on their names.

"The world today to all of us is a very tiny place," says Outterbridge, former director of the Watts Towers Arts Center. "We live together, we play together, our children get happy together. So working together, as African American and as Hispanic or Latino artists, it's not new to us."

--

"The African Presence in Mexico: From Yanga to the Present" runs through June 1 at the California African American Museum, 600 State Drive, Los Angeles. Admission is free. Information, (213) 744-7432 or at www.caam.ca.gov.

agustingurza@latimes.com

Credit: Times Staff Writer

Illustration

Caption: PHOTO: TWIST: Maximino Javier's "Indecisive Chacmool" is in "The African Presence in Mexico: From Yanga to the Present."; PHOTOGRAPHER:California African American Museum; PHOTO: WORKING TOGETHER: John Outterbridge and Jane Castillo's fabric piece "Outcast" is in the complementary exhibition "Common Ground."; PHOTOGRAPHER:Annie Wells Los Angeles Times; PHOTO: REVOLT: Hermenegildo Gonzalez Fernandez's "Founding of Yanga," a city named for an African who led a slave uprising.; PHOTOGRAPHER:Michael Tropea California African American Museum; PHOTO: MOTHERS: "Abuelita de Mi Vida" by Favianna Rodriguez.; PHOTOGRAPHER:California African American Museum; PHOTO: PROTEST: Aydee Rodriguez Lopez's "Sound of the Artesa" depicts dancers using an upside-down boat for percussion.; PHOTOGRAPHER:California African American Museum; PHOTO: STRUGGLE: Daniel Martinez's "The Promised Land" is in related "Who Are We Now" display.; PHOTOGRAPHER:California African American Museum

Subject: Human trafficking; Cultural relations; African Americans; Museum exhibits

Location: Mexico

Company / organization: Name: California African American Museum-Los Angeles; NAICS: 712110

Publication title: Los Angeles Times; Los Angeles, Calif.

Pages: E.1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 2, 2008

Section: General Information

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Los Angeles, Calif.

Country of publication: United States, Los Angeles, Calif.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 04583035

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 422189913

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/422189913?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright (c) 2008 Los Angeles Times)

Last updated: 2017-11-15

Database: US Major Da ilies

Document 45 of 313

La vida es un carnaval: El sur de la Florida se viste de fiesta con tres muestras culturales

Author: DEL ROSARIO ARREAZA, MARIA

Publication info: El Sentinel ; Fort Lauderdale, Fla. [Fort Lauderdale, Fla]02 Feb 2008: 2.

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Abstract:

"A mí me encanta la idea de que traigan un poco del carnaval al sur de la Florida", dijo María Fúlfaro, gerente asociada de mercadeo del Broward Center for the Performing Arts, en Fort Lauderdale. "El carnaval es algo tan universal que a todos nos gustaría ver un poco del espectáculo, sentir el ritmo", agregó esta brasileña que en los últimos años se ha convertido en una de las principales promotoras de su cultura en esta parte del estado.

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Correction:

Notes: Informational box at end of text.

Tres tradiciones, provenientes de tres culturas muy diversas entre sí, tienen de fiesta a los floridanos por estos días. Se trata del Mardi Gras y de los carnavales de Río de Janeiro y de Barranquilla.

Estas fiestas, que durante siglos han sido las más grandes de Estados Unidos, Brasil y Colombia, convergen entre enero y febrero en el sur de la Florida, con lo que los amantes del samba, del jazz y el blues, y de los bailes tropicales se dedican al jolgorio hasta que comience el tiempo de cuaresma, en la segunda semana de febrero.

Hasta 2006 era sólo la ciudad de Hollywood, en el sur de la Florida, la que por décadas esperaba cada año la celebración del Mardi Gras, en una réplica más pequeña de la centenaria celebración de Nueva Orleáns.

Pero desde 2007, los colombianos residentes en los tres condados de Miami-Dade, Broward y Palm Beach se dan cita para celebrar el Carnaval de Barranquilla, que en 2008 comenzó el pasado 26 de febrero. Y ahora, luego de dos años de receso total, el Carnaval de Río vuelve al condado de Broward, con lo que se suma a la celebración cultural de comienzos de año.

Pero además de las coincidencias de tiempo, las tres tradiciones tienen otras, como que todas fueron introducidas a sus respectivos países por los colonizadores europeos, y con el tiempo se convirtieron también en representación de la cultura africana que se refleja en la música, los ritmos y la representación del denominado Rey Momo.

Río en Fort Lauderdale

El próximo 2 de febrero Brasil comienza las celebraciones del Carnaval de Río de Janeiro, que se extenderá hasta el martes 5, justo la víspera del miércoles de ceniza o inicio de la cuaresma.

Aun cuando la televisión por cable permite que el mundo entero y por supuesto los brasileños que residen en el sur de la Florida disfruten con nostalgia de los interminables desfiles y los increíbles disfraces, este año también podrán participar de la fiesta, pues por primera vez en 11 años se realizará en Fort Lauderdale el "Carnaval Brazilian Fest 2008", organizado por la artista y cantante brasileña Marta Luizza Cardoso.

Cardoso, quien llegó a Nueva York en 2001 y al sur de la Florida en 2003, decidió revivir el carnaval.

"Los brasileños realmente extrañan este festival y yo quiero traer algo de nuestra cultura a la gente del sur de la Florida", dijo Cardoso. Por eso su propósito es convertir el Carnaval Brazilian Fest en un evento anual.

Ya en años anteriores, entre 1993 y 1997, el empresario brasileño Paulo Gualano había realizado un pequeño carnaval en el Bay Front Park de Miami, pero las múltiples ocupaciones de su propia compañía y el alto costo del evento lo llevaron a suspenderlo.

Entonces para los cariocas que residen en el sur de la Florida, el nuevo espectáculo será la posibilidad de revivir en la distancia la alegría de su país.

"A mí me encanta la idea de que traigan un poco del carnaval al sur de la Florida", dijo María Fúlfaro, gerente asociada de mercadeo del Broward Center for the Performing Arts, en Fort Lauderdale. "El carnaval es algo tan universal que a todos nos gustaría ver un poco del espectáculo, sentir el ritmo", agregó esta brasileña que en los últimos años se ha convertido en una de las principales promotoras de su cultura en esta parte del estado.

Nueva Orleáns en Hollywood

Este año cuenta ya 11 desde que se reinició la celebración del Mardi Gras en la ciudad de Hollywood, al sur oriente de Broward. (El Mardi Gras es el último día del carnaval, pero en Nueva Orleáns abarca toda la celebración).

Emulando los festejos de Nueva Orleáns, donde nació la tradición hace más de 100 años, los residentes de Hollywood y los vecinos de las ciudades aledañas que disfrutan del jazz y la comida sureña inician los festejos de su propio Mardi Gras hoy sábado 2 de febrero.

Organizado por la firma Fiesta Tropicale Inc., además del goce y la celebración, el Mardi Gras tiene el propósito de unir a la comunidad y ampliar sus horizontes culturales mediante programas educativos, becas y donativos.

Al igual que años anteriores, en 2008 el Mardi Gras, los organizadores del evento donan parte de sus ganancias a entidades sin ánimo de lucro y entidades de caridad, al tiempo que ofrece espacios gratis para que diversas organizaciones locales puedan participar del festejo sin pagar.

Este año el Mardi Gras cuenta entre sus artistas con Marcia Ball, pianista y cantante de blues; Troy "Trombone Shorty" Andrews, designado como el mejor intérprete del año por Offbeat Magazine en 2007, y Terrance Simien, compositor e intérprete de zydeco, música folclórica del sur de Estados Unidos, entre otros. Estos artistas actuarán el martes 5, a partir de las 5 p.m., en Hollywood Beach.

La Arenosa en Miami

Declarado por la UNESCO como Obra Maestra del Patrimonio Oral e Inmaterial de la Humanidad, el Carnaval de Barranquilla se trasladó al sur de la Florida desde 2007.

Y para 2008 la fiesta de los curramberos, como se les llama a los nativos de esa ciudad colombiana, ha crecido mucho más. No sólo tienen su propia reina, Daniella Jaramillo Guerra [una estudiante de Negocios de FIU] sino una completa programación de actividades que incluye una serenata a Barranquilla en el Arienne Arsht Performing Arts Center (Carnival Center), a cargo de Chelito de Castro, desfiles a lo largo de Lincoln Road y un gran desfile de carrozas y comparsas que marca el fin de la fiesta.

El evento es organizado por O/E Arts & Culture, una fundación que trabaja para difundir las expresiones del arte y la cultura latinoamericana en Estados Unidos. Este año el Carnaval de Barranquilla en Miami contará con la aparición de artistas como Juan Piña y Wilfrido Vargas.

Pero además de estos tres países y estas tres culturas, enero y febrero son época de celebración pre cuaresma para innumerables ciudades alrededor del mundo, desde las islas del Caribe hasta la India, pasando por Alemania, España y Eslovenia.

Al final de los festejos, tanto participantes como asistentes darán paso al recogimiento de la Cuaresma, sabiendo que dentro de un año, las tradiciones seguirán con fiesta, ritmo y disfraces.

Puede comunicarse con María del Rosario Arreaza a comentarios@elsentinel.com

INFORMATIONAL BOX:

SI VAS

Qué: Carnival Brazilian Fest 2008

Cuándo: 10 de febrero

Dónde: Revolution Nightclub, 200 West Broward Blvd., Fort Lauderdale.

Costo: $25 a $45

Informes: www.MarthaLuizza.com, www.jointherevolution.net y www.carnavalbrazilianfest.com

Qué: South Florida Mardi Gras

Cuándo: 2 al 5 de febrero

Dónde: Ciudad de Hollywood

Costo: Varía según el espectáculo

Informes: www.mardigrasfiesta.com

Qué: Carnaval de Barranquilla en Miami

Cuándo: 26 de enero al 9 de febrero

Dónde: Diferentes ubicaciones, según el programa

Costo: gratis

Informes: www.carnavalenmiami.com

Credit: MARIA DEL ROSARIO ARREAZA

Illustration

 

Publication title: El Sentinel; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

First page: 2

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 2, 2008

Section: El Sentinel

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Publication subject: Hispanic, General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: Spanish

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 431643343

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/431643343?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright (c) 2008 Tribune Publishing Company. All Rights Reserved.

Last updated: 2010-06-29

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 46 of 313

February 3, 2008 (Page 19 of 86)

Publication info: Tallahassee Democrat (1949-2011) ; Tallahassee, Florida [Tallahassee, Florida]03 Feb 2008: 19.

ProQuest document link

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Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Tallahassee Democrat (1949-2011); Tallahassee, Florida

Volume: 103

Issue: 34

First page: 19

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 3, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Tallahassee, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Tallahassee, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 0738-5153

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2095747527

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2095747527?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Feb 3, 2008

Last updated: 2018-08-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 47 of 313

February 3, 2008 (Page 2 of 164)

Publication info: Asheville Citizen-Times (1991-2011) ; Asheville, North Carolina [Asheville, North Carolina]03 Feb 2008: 2.

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Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Asheville Citizen-Times (1991-2011); Asheville, North Carolina

Volume: 139

Issue: 34

First page: 2

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 3, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Asheville, North Carolina

Country of publication: United States, Asheville, North Carolina

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 1060-3255

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: Englis h

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2125884989

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Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Feb 3, 2008

Last updated: 2018-10-27

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 48 of 313

No Body Left Untoned Preparing for Carnival

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Feb 3, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

More than ever, it is survival of the fittest at Rio’s renowned Carnival celebration — a full-tilt sport in high heels.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

RIO DE JANEIRO — It was the last rehearsal of the Vila Isabel samba school at the famed Sambadrome, and Natalia Guimarães, Miss Brazil 2007, wondered if she was truly ready for Carnival.

She surveyed the high-energy samba dancers gliding down the avenue in five-inch high heels, sweat pouring off their bare stomachs as they gyrated their rear ends at dizzying speeds for an hour, with barely a minute’s rest.

Had the 25 flights of stairs she climbed each day in her hotel and the countless hours training with a samba queen and lifting weights been enough to prepare her for her role as a drum corps queen?

“They say Brazilians all have some samba in their feet,” Ms. Guimarães, a 23-year-old native of Minas Gerais, said. “I didn’t have much in mine. I know it has to improve, and I’m practicing hard.”

She is hardly alone. More than ever, it is survival of the fittest at Rio’s renowned Carnival celebration — a full-tilt sport in high heels. Women, and some men, put themselves through intense training programs months in advance. Health clubs in trendy Ipanema and Leblon offer specialized pre-Carnival boot camps aimed at putting members in the best shape of the year, and perhaps their lives, for the five-day pre-Lent celebration.

“For these women, Carnival is their Olympics,” said César Parcias, a personal trainer at Proforma gym in Leblon who teaches a pre-Carnival workout class.

Women, especially, put heavy pressure on themselves to measure up on the samba stage and in the bacchanal block parties that began winding through this city of six million people on Saturday. Sun-worshiping and visible tan lines are mandatory. Some even turn to plastic surgery for pre-Carnival adjustments.

But for most of Rio’s residents, known as Cariocas, more is never enough when it comes to Carnival. They feel that the eyes of the world are upon them, and they do not plan on disappointing.

To that end, more flesh is on the agenda this year, too.

“This year our costumes are tiny, and there are no feathers to cover our bums,” said Livia Candido, an 18-year-old dancer with the Vila Isabel samba school. “That means there’s a lot of pressure to get our bums in perfect shape.”

Marcelo Misailidis, a choreographer for Vila Isabel, said the demands to be physically fit for Carnival are growing. As samba schools get bigger, to ensure that the several hundred people in the group finish the parade in time, the samba rhythms have become faster, he said. The competition in the Sambadrome features 12 schools, each with 80 minutes to parade its way down samba “avenue.” Schools are penalized if they exceed that time. Each parader, known as a componente, is on the avenue for up to an hour.

Julio Cesar da Conceição, a fitness trainer and member of Vila Isabel’s samba troupe, estimated that during that hour, a componente dancing a frenetic samba could burn up to 1,200 calories and sweat up to a gallon of water in the humid, 90-plus-degree temperatures.

Mr. Misailidis says he remembers a time not too long ago when people who paraded down the avenue were not as physically fit. “Some would pass out halfway through,” he said. “These days, people know better.”

Just as physically demanding — especially for die-hard samba dancers — are the less formal, and often more brazen, Carnival parties and parades known as blocos. They continue for hours on end, often fueled by copious drinking. Costumes are common at these mobile parties, but they tend to be even more minimalist than the revealing sequined and feathered samba parade get-ups.

To get the Carnival-ready body, many Cariocas swear off fried food weeks before and stock up on energy bars and energy drinks, an increasing number of which contain guaraná, a caffeine-rich plant native to the Amazon rain forest. Once the Carnival parties kick off, revelers drink huge amounts of coconut water, which is thought to have broad healing powers.

Priscyla Vidal, a “muse” for the Bola Preto bloco, said a diet rich in black beans gave her the fuel to spend hours on the Stairmaster machine. “Carnival is all about vanity, but it has changed,” said Ms. Vidal, 27. “It used to exalt whoever could dance samba the best. Now it is more about who looks more glamorous.”

Mr. Parcias, the personal trainer in Leblon, knows that only too well. Last week, some 40 people attended his one-hour class. They were of all ages, but were mostly young women in form-fitting bodysuits. They seemed utterly focused, staring ahead at the mirror and never uttering a complaint.

The Carnival classes, held five days a week, begin five weeks before the event. “Some people get here before Carnival and they are desperate to start training after a full year where they’ve done almost no training,” he said. “Some people go overboard, but of course we discourage that.”

Like triathletes recovering after a race, Mr. Parcias’s students will spend the six weeks after Carnival in less-intensive workouts, a “period of recuperation,” he said.

When exercise is not enough, some Brazilians go under the knife to perfect their beauty. Angela Bismarchi had her 42nd plastic surgery on Monday. Already the Brazilian record holder for the most plastic surgeries, Ms. Bismarchi, 36, had nylon wires implanted in her eyes to give them an Asian slant, to help her look the part for this year’s theme of her samba group, Porto da Pedra: the centennial of Japanese immigration to Brazil.

Ms. Bismarchi said in a telephone interview that she had timed the operation to “be much more beautiful during Carnival.” Once it is over, she said, she will have another operation to remove the wires. “I will return to being Angela,” she said.

After Carnival, Ms. Guimarães, who has focused her months of Carnival training on having a “healthier, more muscular and curvaceous” body for samba dancing, will have to transform her body again to return to the modeling world.

“I have to get skinny again,” she said. “Being in shape by New York standards, by fashion standards, means being skinny.”

Joshua Schneyer and Mery Galanternick contributed reporting.

Subject: Plastic surgery; Schools; Training; Dancers & choreographers

Location: Brazil New York

People: Soares de Espindola, Julio Cesar

Company / organization: Name: Proforma; NAICS: 424120

Identifier / keyword: Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) Carnival (Pre-Lenten) Plastic Surgery Barrionuevo, Alexei Brazil Dancing IMMIGRATION AND REFUGEES Exercise Health Clubs Japan Weight New York State

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 3, 2008

Section: world

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2222682841

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2222682841?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-10

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 49 of 313

Brazil's Carnaval on a smaller scale

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Feb 3, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Carnaval was to start on Friday in Brazil, so you can bet that tourists have already started to flood into Rio de Janeiro, Salvador and Recife, Brazil's three most famous headquarters for pre-Lenten hedonism.

And just as assuredly, local residents have begun to flood out.

Some flee the chaos to quiet beach or mountain retreats, but many head to other places for navel-baring across the country. Some are small-town versions of the big-city celebrations; others march to the beat of their own cross-dressing drummer.

You could still make it for this year; though with last-minute flights starting at very high prices, you may want to spend this weekend dreaming about Carnaval 2009. Whenever you go, www.bacctravel.com, an agency specializing in trips to Brazil, is a good place to start planning.

Its bilingual agents often have access to inexpensive flights and are knowledgeable about travel within Brazil.

Here are a few of the more popular alternative carnivals:

LAGUNA About 120 kilometers, or 75 miles, south of the state capital of Florianopolis, this town of 50,000 sits on the tip of a peninsula with the Santo Antonio Lagoon on one side and the Atlantic on the other. It plays host to one of the top carnivals in southern Brazil.

Whereas Rio's carnival is best known for its pay-to-enter parades in the Oscar Niemeyer-designed Sambodromo, and Salvador has a traditional street carnival, Laguna places equal importance on both (albeit on a much smaller scale). The town's samba schools compete in the 8,000-person Sambodromo, but the streets also fill with blocos, the dancing masses that follow trucks outfitted with sound systems and platform stages where bands play. (To join in, you typically must purchase the bloco's uniform, or abadá.) One prime attraction is the Bloco da Pracinha, which sets out to the beach on Sunday.

There is also a third, more family-friendly venue: a stage set up at the city's main beach supports bands playing sambas and other traditional carnival rhythms like axe (from Bahia) and frevo (from the northeast) as well as the old-fashioned carnival marches known as marchinhas.

Visitors to Laguna can get there by bus from Florianopolis, and stay in hotels on the beach side of town or in the picturesque colonial town. Both www.lagunabrasil.com.br and www.laguna.sc.gov.br offer information in Portuguese.

An official decree prohibits more modern rhythms like samba and axe; the official music here is the traditional marchinha, which dates back to the 1920s and was a staple of Carnaval through the mid-20th century. Over 1,500 local marchinhas have been composed locally since Carnaval started again.

The costumes have bloco-specific themes, which this year include everything from babies to bus drivers.

Visitors can stay at one of the pousadas, or inns, in or near town (make reservations five or six months in advance), or rent a house from one of the residents who leave during that time.

Information (in Portuguese only; click on pousadas for lodging) is at www.saoluizdoparaitinga.sp.gov.br.

Visitors can stay in the hotels and pousadas around town, but another option for the younger set is to stay in student housing (known as republicas), which present their own mini-carnivals. Pay one price and you're in for five days - with a guarantee of a mattress, bathroom access and free beer.

You can skip between your own private carnival and the more traditional one on the streets, as well as a series of more family-oriented nightly outdoor concerts called the Candonguero Project.

Diamantina is a similarly beautiful town, though as its name indicates, its mining industry revolved around diamonds. Here Carnaval has less of a college vibe, with the focus on the street carnival, which includes a popular local samba band called Bat Caverna (as in the place they keep the Batmobile).

Information on Ouro Preto is available (in English) at www.ouropreto.org.br and on Diamantina (Portuguese only) at www.diamantina.com.br and www.karnaval.com.br.

Not much is going on there during Carnaval itself - everyone is up in Salvador. But come Ash Wednesday, Feb. 6 this year, the place speeds right through repopulating and into overpopulating, and the party continues through the weekend. By day, beaches lined with caipirinha stands serve fruity cocktails to crowds, by night the discos with names like Pulsar and Funny in and around town throw blow-out parties - except Thursday, which is luau night, when you can dance on the beach into Friday morning.

Morro de São Paulo has a user-friendly, useful Web site in English (and other languages), www.morrodesaopaulo.com.br.

Subject: Carnivals

Location: Brazil Rio de Janeiro Brazil

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 3, 2008

Section: travel

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2222699197

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2222699197?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-10

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 50 of 313

No body left untoned preparing for Carnival

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Feb 3, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

RIO DE JANEIRO — It was the last rehearsal of the Vila Isabel samba school at the famed Sambadrome, and Natalia Guimarães, Miss Brazil 2007, wondered if she was truly ready for Carnival.

She surveyed the high-energy samba dancers gliding down the avenue in five-inch high heels, sweat pouring off their bare stomachs as they gyrated their rear ends at dizzying speeds for an hour, with barely a minute's rest.

Had the 25 flights of stairs she climbed each day in her hotel and the countless hours training with a samba queen and lifting weights been enough to prepare her for her role as a drum corps queen?

"They say Brazilians all have some samba in their feet," Guimarães, a 23-year-old native of Minas Gerais, said. "I didn't have much in mine. I know it has to improve, and I'm practicing hard."

She is hardly alone. More than ever, it is survival of the fittest at Rio's renowned Carnival celebration — a full-tilt sport in high heels. Women, and some men, put themselves through intense training programs months in advance. Health clubs in trendy Ipanema and Leblon offer specialized pre-Carnival boot camps aimed at putting members in the best shape of the year, and perhaps their lives, for the five-day pre-Lent celebration.

"For these women, Carnival is their Olympics," said César Parcias, a personal trainer at Proforma gym in Leblon who teaches a pre-Carnival workout class.

Women, especially, put heavy pressure on themselves to measure up on the samba stage and in the bacchanal block parties that began winding through this city of six million people on Saturday. Sun-worshiping and visible tan lines are mandatory. Some even turn to plastic surgery for pre-Carnival adjustments.

But for most of Rio's residents, known as Cariocas, more is never enough when it comes to Carnival. They feel that the eyes of the world are upon them, and they do not plan on disappointing.

To that end, more flesh is on the agenda this year, too.

"This year our costumes are tiny, and there are no feathers to cover our bums," said Livia Candido, an 18-year-old dancer with the Vila Isabel samba school. "That means there's a lot of pressure to get our bums in perfect shape."

Marcelo Misailidis, a choreographer for Vila Isabel, said the demands to be physically fit for Carnival are growing. As samba schools get bigger, to ensure that the several hundred people in the group finish the parade in time, the samba rhythms have become faster, he said. The competition in the Sambadrome features 12 schools, each with 80 minutes to parade its way down samba "avenue." Schools are penalized if they exceed that time. Each parader, known as a componente, is on the avenue for up to an hour.

Julio Cesar da Conceição, a fitness trainer and member of Vila Isabel's samba troupe, estimated that during that hour, a componente dancing a frenetic samba could burn up to 1,200 calories and sweat up to a gallon of water in the humid, 90-plus-degree temperatures.

Misailidis says he remembers a time not too long ago when people who paraded down the avenue were not as physically fit. "Some would pass out halfway through," he said. "These days, people know better."

Just as physically demanding — especially for die-hard samba dancers — are the less formal, and often more brazen, Carnival parties and parades known as blocos. They continue for hours on end, often fueled by copious drinking. Costumes are common at these mobile parties, but they tend to be even more minimalist than the revealing sequined and feathered samba parade get-ups.

To get the Carnival-ready body, many Cariocas swear off fried food weeks before and stock up on energy bars and energy drinks, an increasing number of which contain guaraná, a caffeine-rich plant native to the Amazon rain forest. Once the Carnival parties kick off, revelers drink huge amounts of coconut water, which is thought to have broad healing powers.

Priscyla Vidal, a "muse" for the Bola Preto bloco, said a diet rich in black beans gave her the fuel to spend hours on the Stairmaster machine. "Carnival is all about vanity, but it has changed," said Vidal, 27. "It used to exalt whoever could dance samba the best. Now it is more about who looks more glamorous."

Parcias, the personal trainer in Leblon, knows that only too well. Last week, some 40 people attended his one-hour class. They were of all ages, but were mostly young women in form-fitting bodysuits. They seemed utterly focused, staring ahead at the mirror and never uttering a complaint.

The Carnival classes, held five days a week, begin five weeks before the event. "Some people get here before Carnival and they are desperate to start training after a full year where they've done almost no training," he said. "Some people go overboard, but of course we discourage that."

Like triathletes recovering after a race, Parcias's students will spend the six weeks after Carnival in less-intensive workouts, a "period of recuperation," he said.

When exercise is not enough, some Brazilians go under the knife to perfect their beauty. Angela Bismarchi had her 42nd plastic surgery on Monday. Already the Brazilian record holder for the most plastic surgeries, Bismarchi, 36, had nylon wires implanted in her eyes to give them an Asian slant, to help her look the part for this year's theme of her samba group, Porto da Pedra: the centennial of Japanese immigration to Brazil.

Bismarchi said in a telephone interview that she had timed the operation to "be much more beautiful during Carnival." Once it is over, she said, she will have another operation to remove the wires. "I will return to being Angela," she said.

After Carnival, Guimarães, who has focused her months of Carnival training on having a "healthier, more muscular and curvaceous" body for samba dancing, will have to transform her body again to return to the modeling world.

"I have to get skinny again," she said. "Being in shape by New York standards, by fashion standards, means being skinny."

Subject: Plastic surgery; Schools; Training; Dancers & choreographers

Location: Brazil New York

People: Soares de Espindola, Julio Cesar

Company / organization: Name: Proforma; NAICS: 424120

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 3, 2008

Section: world

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2222715498

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2222715498?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-10

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 51 of 313

No body left untoned preparing for Carnival in Brazil

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Feb 3, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

RIO DE JANEIRO — It was the last rehearsal of the Vila Isabel samba school at the famed Sambadrome, and Natália Guimarães, Miss Brazil 2007, wondered if she was truly ready for carnival.

She surveyed the high-energy samba dancers gliding down the avenue in high heels, sweat pouring off their bare stomachs as they gyrated their rear ends at dizzying speeds for an hour, with barely a minute's rest.

Had the 25 flights of stairs she climbed each day in her hotel and the countless hours training with a samba queen and lifting weights been enough to prepare her for her role as a drum corps queen?

"They say Brazilians all have some samba in their feet," said Guimarães, a 23-year-old native of Minas Gerais. "I didn't have much in mine. I know it has to improve, and I'm practicing hard."

She is hardly alone. More than ever, it is survival of the fittest at Rio's renowned carnival celebration - a full-tilt sport in high heels. Women, and some men, put themselves through intense training programs months in advance. Health clubs in trendy Ipanema and Leblon offer specialized pre-carnival boot camps aimed at putting members in the best shape of the year, and perhaps their lives, for the five-day pre-Lent celebration.

"For these women, carnival is their Olympics," said César Parcias, a personal trainer at the Proforma gym in Leblon who teaches a pre-carnival workout class.

Women, especially, put heavy pressure on themselves to measure up on the samba stage and in the bacchanal block parties that began winding through this city of six million people Saturday.

Visible tan lines are mandatory. Some even turn to plastic surgery for pre-carnival adjustments.

But for most of Rio's residents, known as Cariocas, more is never enough when it comes to carnival. They feel that the eyes of the world are upon them, and they do not plan on disappointing.

To that end, more flesh is on the agenda this year, too.

"This year our costumes are tiny, and there are no feathers to cover our bums," said Lívia Cândido, an 18-year-old dancer with the Vila Isabel samba school. "That means there's a lot of pressure to get our bums in perfect shape."

Marcelo Misailidis, a choreographer for Vila Isabel, said the demands to be physically fit for carnival are growing. As samba schools get bigger, to ensure that the several hundred people in the group finish the parade in time, the samba rhythms have become faster, he said. The competition in the Sambadrome features 12 schools, each with 80 minutes to parade its way down samba "avenue." Schools are penalized if they exceed that time. Each parader, known as a componente, is on the avenue for up to an hour.

Júlio César da Conceicão, a fitness trainer and member of Vila Isabel's samba troupe, estimated that during that hour a componente dancing a frenetic samba could burn up to 1,200 calories and sweat up to a gallon, or 3.8 liters, of water in the humid heat.

Misailidis says he remembers a time not too long ago when people who paraded down the avenue were not as physically fit. "Some would pass out halfway through," he said. "These days, people know better."

Just as physically demanding - especially for die-hard samba dancers - are the less formal, and often more brazen, carnival parties and parades known as blocos.

They continue for hours on end, often fueled by copious drinking. Costumes are common at these mobile parties, but they tend to be even more minimalist than the revealing sequined and feathered samba parade get-ups.

To get the carnival-ready body, many Cariocas swear off fried food weeks before and stock up on energy bars and energy drinks, an increasing number of which contain guarana, a caffeine-rich plant native to the Amazon rain forest. Once the carnival parties kick off, revelers drink huge amounts of coconut water, which is thought to have broad healing powers.

Priscyla Vidal, a "muse" for the Bola Preta bloco, said a diet rich in black beans gave her the fuel to spend hours on the Stairmaster machine. "carnival is all about vanity, but it has changed," said Vidal, 27. "It used to exalt whoever could dance samba the best. Now it is more about who looks more glamorous."

Parcias, the personal trainer in Leblon, knows that only too well. Last week, some 40 people attended his one-hour class.

They were of all ages but were mostly young women in form-fitting bodysuits. They seemed utterly focused, staring ahead at the mirror and never uttering a complaint.

The carnival classes, held five days a week, begin five weeks before the event. "Some people get here before carnival, and they are desperate to start training after a full year where they've done almost no training," he said. "Some people go overboard, but of course we discourage that."

Like triathletes recovering after a race, Parcias' students will spend the six weeks after carnival in less-intensive workouts, a "period of recuperation," he said.

When exercise is not enough, some Brazilians go under the knife to perfect their beauty.

Ângela Bismarchi had her 42nd plastic surgery Monday. Already the Brazilian record holder for the most plastic surgeries, Bismarchi, 36, had nylon wires implanted in her eyes to give them an Asian slant, to help her look the part for this year's theme of her samba group, Porto da Pedra: the centennial of Japanese immigration to Brazil.

Bismarchi said in a telephone interview that she had timed the operation to "be much more beautiful during carnival." Once it is over, she said, she will have another operation to remove the wires.

"I will return to being Angela," she said.

After carnival, Guimarães, who has focused her months of carnival training on having a "healthier, more muscular and curvaceous" body for samba dancing, will have to transform her body again to return to the modeling world.

"I have to get skinny again," she said. "Being in shape by New York standards, by fashion standards, means being skinny."

Joshua Schneyer and Mery Galanternick contributed reporting.

Subject: Plastic surgery; Schools; Training; Dancers & choreographers

Location: Brazil New York

Company / organization: Name: Proforma; NAICS: 424120

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 3, 2008

Section: world

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2222741729

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2222741729?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-10

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 52 of 313

February 3, 2008 (Page 62 of 233)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]03 Feb 2008: 62.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 38

First page: 62

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 3, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2226048010

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2226048010?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Feb 3, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-16

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 53 of 313

February 3, 2008 (Page 62 of 319)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]03 Feb 2008: 62.

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Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 48

Issue: 284

First page: 62

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 3, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249273928

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249273928?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Feb 3, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 54 of 313

Carnaval espanta disputas y tristezas

Author: Ramirez, David

Publication info: El Diario La Prensa ; New York, N.Y. [New York, N.Y]03 Feb 2008: 9.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

En Brasil, los "blocos", como son conocidas las comparsas carnavalescas en Brasil, "arrastraron" ayer a millones de personas en las ciudades brasileñas mientras que las tradicionales escuelas de samba de Río de Janeiro ultimaron las lujosas presentaciones que realizarán este domingo y lunes de Carnaval.

En el Río de la Plata, Uruguay la multitud de seguidores de Iemanjá compartió estos días ese embrujo africano con las fiestas de carnaval a ritmo de candombe. Ayer se llenó ayer con las ofrendas a Iemanjá, una diosa del Mar de reminiscencias africanas que recibió el homenaje de cientos de sus devotos en las playas de Montevideo con ritos en demanda de prosperidad, salud y amor.

En Bolivia, el inicio del carnaval abrió cuatro días de pausa en este país andino golpeado por inundaciones y permanentes fricciones políticas. Centenares de danzarines al son de atronadoras bandas musicales iniciaron el sábado un maratónico recorrido por las calles Oruro, a unos 170 kilómetros al sur de La Paz. En Santa Cruz la fiesta es un tanto diferente a la de la zona andina con su carnaval de comparsas, carrozas y desfiles de reinas.

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BRASIL/SERVICIOS NOTICIOSOS - Las murgas, los disfraces y las máscaras características del Carnaval cobraron vida este fin de semana en muchas ciudades y pueblos donde se celebrará esta fiesta, en la que alegóricamente el lado más oscuro y salvaje del hombre invade los espacios urbanos.

En Brasil, los "blocos", como son conocidas las comparsas carnavalescas en Brasil, "arrastraron" ayer a millones de personas en las ciudades brasileñas mientras que las tradicionales escuelas de samba de Río de Janeiro ultimaron las lujosas presentaciones que realizarán este domingo y lunes de Carnaval.

Las comparsas, encabezadas por "tríos eléctricos" (camiones adaptados con un escenario para orquestas y dotados de poderosos amplificadores de sonido), son las principales atracciones del Carnaval antes de que entren en escena las famosas escuelas de samba de Río de Janeiro.

Los desfiles de las escuelas de samba en Río de Janeiro comenzaron en la noche del viernes, pero tan sólo llegarán a su auge en la noche del domingo, cuando las escuelas del Grupo Especial invadirán el Sambódromo.

En Ecuador, las constantes lluvias en los últimos días en la mayor parte de Ecuador han ocasionado inundaciones, derrumbes y cortes de carretera no fueron freno para los viajeros que acuden a las festividades del Carnaval, que se celebran en el país del 2 al 5 de febrero.

El Instituto Nacional de Meteorología e Hidrología (Inamhi) advirtió que las malas condiciones atmosféricas se mantendrán en Ecuador durante los próximos 4 días, aunque se ha iniciado un ligero descenso de la intensidad de las lluvias sobre todo en la zona de la Sierra.

En el Río de la Plata, Uruguay la multitud de seguidores de Iemanjá compartió estos días ese embrujo africano con las fiestas de carnaval a ritmo de candombe. Ayer se llenó ayer con las ofrendas a Iemanjá, una diosa del Mar de reminiscencias africanas que recibió el homenaje de cientos de sus devotos en las playas de Montevideo con ritos en demanda de prosperidad, salud y amor.

Los fieles de este culto llenaron las playas de la capital de Uruguay con ceremonias de purificación, erigieron centenares de altares con velas en la arena y botaron decenas de barcos en miniatura cargados de ofrendas y "agrados" para la señora de los peces.

En Bolivia, el inicio del carnaval abrió cuatro días de pausa en este país andino golpeado por inundaciones y permanentes fricciones políticas. Centenares de danzarines al son de atronadoras bandas musicales iniciaron el sábado un maratónico recorrido por las calles Oruro, a unos 170 kilómetros al sur de La Paz. En Santa Cruz la fiesta es un tanto diferente a la de la zona andina con su carnaval de comparsas, carrozas y desfiles de reinas.

Morales y varios de sus ministros bailaron el viernes en el palacio presidencial al son de una banda de la que el mandatario fue trompetista en su adolescencia y participó en el salón presidencial de una "challa", ofrenda a la Pachamama (Madre Tierra).

En Panamá, el carnaval paralizó al país desde el viernes y así será hasta la madrugada del miércoles, donde además de entretener a los locales sus organizadores impulsar on el turismo, uno de los sectores en franco crecimiento en Panamá.

En España, con una capacidad para unos 4,000 espectadores, los titanes y titánidas, en sus plataformas de vértigo, aspirantes a Reinona del carnaval grancanario, llenaron el parque de Santa Catalina, donde se habilitó un escenario que simulaba el Monte Olimpo griego.

Este espectáculo, el más transgresor de las carnestolendas canarias, ha sabido ganarse fama en el mundo entero.

Sidebar

Subject: Carnivals; Festivals; Hispanic culture; Tourist attractions

Ethnicity: Hispanic

Publication title: El Diario La Prensa; New York, N.Y.

Volume: 39

Issue: 1319346

Pages: 9

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 3, 2008

Section: NUESTROS PAISES

Publisher: ImpreMedia Operating Company, LLC

Place of publication: New York, N.Y.

Country of publication: United States, New York, N.Y.

Publication subject: Hispanic, Ethnic Interests

ISSN: 07429428

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: Spanish

Document type: News

Document feature: Photographs

ProQuest document ID: 368508535

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/368508535?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright CPK Operating Company, LLC Feb 3, 2008

Last updated: 2011-09-27

Database: Ethnic NewsWatch

Document 55 of 313

Carnival rolls in Rio

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Chicago Tribune ; Chicago, Ill. [Chicago, Ill]03 Feb 2008: 17.

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Abstract: None available.

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A masked reveler dances along a Rio de Janeiro parade route Friday as Carnival kicked off in Brazil. Five days of festivities peak Sunday and Monday nights with samba spectacles.

----------

Page compiled from Tribune news services.

Illustration

Caption: Photo (color): A masked reveler dances along a Rio de Janeiro parade route Friday as Carnival kicked off in Brazil. Five days of festivities peak Sunday and Monday nights with samba spectacles. AP photo by Dado Galdieri

Publication title: Chicago Tribune; Chicago, Ill.

Pages: 17

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 3, 2008

column: Around the World

Section: News

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Chicago, Ill.

Country of publication: United States, Chicago, Ill.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 10856706

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 420688070

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/420688070?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by the Chicago Tribune)

Last updated: 2017-11-15

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 56 of 313

Purists bemoan 'Carnaval Inc.'; Rio's big event has become an ad for airlines, milk producers, unions and organized crime.

Author: McDonnell, Patrick J

Publication info: Los Angeles Times ; Los Angeles, Calif. [Los Angeles, Calif]03 Feb 2008: A.12.

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Abstract:

It's Carnaval season, a time of bacchanalian bashes and a fierce determination by the city's many samba clubs to shine in the trademark parades that begin this evening at Rio's Sambodromo, the Carnaval stadium. Like Super Bowl fans in the U.S., most Brazilians will watch from living rooms and bars, as thousands of scantily clad dancers, raucous musicians and gargantuan floats roll ostentatiously down the concrete runway.

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This evening, millions will tune in to a world-famous spectacle involving carefully choreographed moves, intense competition and fanatical spectators. Viewers will largely put aside their complaints that it has lost its authenticity and become beholden to deep-pocket sponsors.

No, it's not the Super Bowl.

It's Carnaval season, a time of bacchanalian bashes and a fierce determination by the city's many samba clubs to shine in the trademark parades that begin this evening at Rio's Sambodromo, the Carnaval stadium.

Purists object that "Carnaval Inc." has devolved into an advertisement for interests as diverse as airlines, unions and milk producers -- along with organized-crime gangs. Samba clubs, or schools, seek out cash-cow sponsors to finance pageants that can cost several million dollars and months of work to assemble.

"The space for poetry, for fun, for social and political criticism, or even for pure historical themes . . . has become minimal," wrote Aloy Jupiara, a journalist and Carnaval specialist. "Now most themes must have an appeal to the market."

Foreign governments have even gotten into the act. Two years ago, Venezuela's state petroleum monopoly, with the blessing of President Hugo Chavez, chipped in more than $500,000 to the Vila Isabel school, which won the competition.

Outsiders may imagine raucous partyers sashaying down the streets as merry bystanders dance and sip capirinhas, the refreshing national cocktail. Such free celebrations, known as blocos, do proliferate during Carnaval season, and are enjoying a resurgence.

But blocos are not part of the headliner, big-money spectacle kicking off tonight at the sold-out Sambodromo.

Choice tickets can cost $500 or more. Scalpers ply their trade outside the gates. The prices have largely shut out working-class spectators. Celebrities, tourists, politicians and the beautiful people have supplanted them.

Like Super Bowl fans in the U.S., most Brazilians will watch from living rooms and bars, as thousands of scantily clad dancers, raucous musicians and gargantuan floats roll ostentatiously down the concrete runway.

"The Sambodromo is too commercial," said Renata Cunha, who, along with her daughter, Bruna, 3, was out for one of the pre-Carnaval block parties in the Jardim Botanico neighborhood. "They're all competing for points, after all."

The 12 top schools that will perform in all-night marathons today and Monday are judged on categories such as costumes, choreography, floats, music and story lines. The big payoffs are future sponsorships and a piece of TV rights, ticket sales, official subsidies and other revenue streams.

The corporate and government money stands alongside another funding source: gambling receipts. It has long been an open secret that kingpins of the city's underground numbers racket, jogo do bicho (the animal game), have underwritten samba schools.

Concern has been mounting about the influence of the narcos who battle police in the hillside favelas that are home to many samba clubs.

Last month, hundreds of police raided the Mangueira favela and discovered a secret passage to its venerable samba school complex. Traffickers keen to hide their presence were said to use the concealed entryway. Police are still seeking Francisco Paulo Testas Monteiro, known as Tuchinha, samba composer and alleged dealer. Tuchinha reportedly threw a barbecue to mark the selection of his tune as the club's theme song in this weekend's Carnaval.

Despite the commercialization and suspect funding, Carnaval remains an electric time.

Each year, unpaid multitudes loyal to samba schools memorize verses and practice dance steps. Participants are young and old, fat and skinny, white and black and every hue in between, along with a smattering of foreign tourists who pay as much as $2,500 to make merry. Many buy their own costumes, known as fantasias.

For one day, they get to strut their stuff on a global stage.

During Carnaval week, the ubiquitous pounding of drums eclipses the usual clamor of urban life. Conformity and routine yield to riotous abandon. For some, life's disappointments get lost in a kind of collective ecstasy.

"I used to come with my family, all costumed as the Flintstones," said Glaucio Gomes, decked out as Fred Flintstone at one of the blocos that swagger through streets from ritzy Copacabana to the favelas. "But now I'm a sad man," he added, seeming far from clinically depressed as he chatted up the girl standing next to him. "My wife left me and the kids don't want to come."

Rio's rough Madureira neighborhood is the home of Imperio Serrano samba school. The fanatically loyal imperianos have put their hopes this year in the indomitable spirit of Carmen Miranda, a former Rio hat-maker who made it big, though she may be best remembered in Hollywood for her fruit-topped hats.

The club chose the late movie star in a pitch for lost glory: She was also the subject of the samba theme in 1972, when the club last won the Carnival trophy.

In a bow to their muse, costume designers stressed multicolored headgear: oversized fedoras, soaring admiral's hats, Inca-style crowns, broad-brimmed Mexican sombreros, matador caps -- all embroidered with a garish mix of pompoms, glitter, ribbons, stylized fruit, candles and most every other imaginable adornment.

"I did everything I could to make you love me," read the lament from a Miranda song on a clubhouse banner facing legions of sweaty dancers during a pre-Carnaval pep rally.

Rich kids from Ipanema boogied alongside the locals, all donning the club's green and white shirts, emblazoned with Miranda's image.

Some drank $2 bottles of beer and wolfed down plates of sausage with farofa, fried manioc flour.

"With this deep feeling, this great spirit of Carmen Miranda, we must triumph!" the emcee, known as Georgie, roared over the deafening din. "We can't lose! Everyone, to the Carnaval!"

--

patrick.mcdonnell@latimes.com

--

Special correspondent Marcelo Soares contributed to this report.

Credit: Times Staff Writer

Illustration

Caption: PHOTO: BUZZING IN BRAZIL: A reveler dressed up as a mosquito chases children during a street parade in Rio de Janeiro. The big parades will begin this evening at Rio's Sambodromo.; PHOTOGRAPHER:Silvia Izquierdo Associated Press

Subject: Ticket sales; Clubs; Carnivals; Corporate sponsorship

Location: Rio de Janeiro Brazil Brazil

Publication title: Los Angeles Times; Los Angeles, Calif.

Pages: A.12

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 3, 2008

Dateline: RIO DE JANEIRO

Section: News

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Los Angeles, Calif.

Country of publication: United States, Los Angeles, Calif.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 04583035

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 422222988

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/422222988?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright (c) 2008 Los Angeles Times)

Last updated: 2017-11-15

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 57 of 313

No Body Left Untoned Preparing for Carnival

Author: Barrionuevo, Alexei; Joshua Schneyer and Mery Galanternick contributed reporting.

Publication info: New York Times , Late Edition (East Coast); New York, N.Y. [New York, N.Y]03 Feb 2008: A.8.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

''They say Brazilians all have some samba in their feet,'' Ms. [Natalia Guimaraes], a 23-year-old native of Minas Gerais, said. ''I didn't have much in mine. I know it has to improve, and I'm practicing hard.''

Priscyla Vidal, a ''muse'' for the Bola Preto bloco, said a diet rich in black beans gave her the fuel to spend hours on the Stairmaster machine. ''Carnival is all about vanity, but it has changed,'' said Ms. Vidal, 27. ''It used to exalt whoever could dance samba the best. Now it is more about who looks more glamorous.''

The Carnival classes, held five days a week, begin five weeks before the event. ''Some people get here before Carnival and they are desperate to start training after a full year where they've done almost no training,'' he said. ''Some people go overboard, but of course we discourage that.''

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It was the last rehearsal of the Vila Isabel samba school at the famed Sambadrome, and Natalia Guimaraes, Miss Brazil 2007, wondered if she was truly ready for Carnival.

She surveyed the high-energy samba dancers gliding down the avenue in five-inch high heels, sweat pouring off their bare stomachs as they gyrated their rear ends at dizzying speeds for an hour, with barely a minute's rest.


Had the 25 flights of stairs she climbed each day in her hotel and the countless hours training with a samba queen and lifting weights been enough to prepare her for her role as a drum corps queen?

''They say Brazilians all have some samba in their feet,'' Ms. Guimaraes, a 23-year-old native of Minas Gerais, said. ''I didn't have much in mine. I know it has to improve, and I'm practicing hard.''

She is hardly alone. More than ever, it is survival of the fittest at Rio's renowned Carnival celebration -- a full-tilt sport in high heels. Women, and some men, put themselves through intense training programs months in advance. Health clubs in trendy Ipanema and Leblon offer specialized pre-Carnival boot camps aimed at putting members in the best shape of the year, and perhaps their lives, for the five-day pre-Lent celebration.

''For these women, Carnival is their Olympics,'' said Cesar Parcias, a personal trainer at Proforma gym in Leblon who teaches a pre-Carnival workout class.

Women, especially, put heavy pressure on themselves to measure up on the samba stage and in the bacchanal block parties that began winding through this city of six million people on Saturday. Sun-worshiping and visible tan lines are mandatory. Some even turn to plastic surgery for pre-Carnival adjustments.

But for most of Rio's residents, known as Cariocas, more is never enough when it comes to Carnival. They feel that the eyes of the world are upon them, and they do not plan on disappointing.

To that end, more flesh is on the agenda this year, too.

''This year our costumes are tiny, and there are no feathers to cover our bums,'' said Livia Candido, an 18-year-old dancer with the Vila Isabel samba school. ''That means there's a lot of pressure to get our bums in perfect shape.''

Marcelo Misailidis, a choreographer for Vila Isabel, said the demands to be physically fit for Carnival are growing. As samba schools get bigger, to ensure that the several hundred people in the group finish the parade in time, the samba rhythms have become faster, he said. The competition in the Sambadrome features 12 schools, each with 80 minutes to parade its way down samba ''avenue.'' Schools are penalized if they exceed that time. Each parader, known as a componente, is on the avenue for up to an hour.

Julio Cesar da Conceicao, a fitness trainer and member of Vila Isabel's samba troupe, estimated that during that hour, a componente dancing a frenetic samba could burn up to 1,200 calories and sweat up to a gallon of water in the humid, 90-plus-degree temperatures.

Mr. Misailidis says he remembers a time not too long ago when people who paraded down the avenue were not as physically fit. ''Some would pass out halfway through,'' he said. ''These days, people know better.''

Just as physically demanding -- especially for die-hard samba dancers -- are the less formal, and often more brazen, Carnival parties and parades known as blocos. They continue for hours on end, often fueled by copious drinking. Costumes are common at these mobile parties, but they tend to be even more minimalist than the revealing sequined and feathered samba parade get-ups.

To get the Carnival-ready body, many Cariocas swear off fried food weeks before and stock up on energy bars and energy drinks, an increasing number of which contain guarana, a caffeine-rich plant native to the Amazon rain forest. Once the Carnival parties kick off, revelers drink huge amounts of coconut water, which is thought to have broad healing powers.

Priscyla Vidal, a ''muse'' for the Bola Preto bloco, said a diet rich in black beans gave her the fuel to spend hours on the Stairmaster machine. ''Carnival is all about vanity, but it has changed,'' said Ms. Vidal, 27. ''It used to exalt whoever could dance samba the best. Now it is more about who looks more glamorous.''

Mr. Parcias, the personal trainer in Leblon, knows that only too well. Last week, some 40 people attended his one-hour class. They were of all ages, but were mostly young women in form-fitting bodysuits. They seemed utterly focused, staring ahead at the mirror and never uttering a complaint.

The Carnival classes, held five days a week, begin five weeks before the event. ''Some people get here before Carnival and they are desperate to start training after a full year where they've done almost no training,'' he said. ''Some people go overboard, but of course we discourage that.''

Like triathletes recovering after a race, Mr. Parcias's students will spend the six weeks after Carnival in less-intensive workouts, a ''period of recuperation,'' he said.

When exercise is not enough, some Brazilians go under the knife to perfect their beauty. Angela Bismarchi had her 42nd plastic surgery on Monday. Already the Brazilian record holder for the most plastic surgeries, Ms. Bismarchi, 36, had nylon wires implanted in her eyes to give them an Asian slant, to help her look the part for this year's theme of her samba group, Porto da Pedra: the centennial of Japanese immigration to Brazil.

Ms. Bismarchi said in a telephone interview that she had timed the operation to ''be much more beautiful during Carnival.'' Once it is over, she said, she will have another operation to remove the wires. ''I will return to being Angela,'' she said.

After Carnival, Ms. Guimaraes, who has focused her months of Carnival training on having a ''healthier, more muscular and curvaceous'' body for samba dancing, will have to transform her body again to return to the modeling world.

''I have to get skinny again,'' she said. ''Being in shape by New York standards, by fashion standards, means being skinny.''

Illustration

PHOTOS: Monica Lima at a boot camp in Leblon aimed at putting members in the best shape for the five-day pre-Lent party.; The Vila Isabel samba school held a rehearsal for the Carnival celebration at the Sambadrome in Rio de Janeiro late last month. (PHOTOGRAPHS BY LALO DE ALMEIDA FOR THE NEW YORK TIMES)

Subject: Holidays & special occasions; Dance; Folk dancing

Location: Rio de Janeiro Brazil

Publication title: New York Times, Late Edition (East Coast); New York, N.Y.

Pages: A.8

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 3, 2008

Dateline: Rio de Janeiro

Section: A

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York, N.Y.

Country of publication: United States, New York, N.Y.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 03624331

CODEN: NYTIAO

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 433794503

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/433794503?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright New York Times Company Feb 3, 2008

Last updated: 2017-11-15

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 58 of 313

BRIEF: It's Carnival

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune Business News ; Washington [Washington]03 Feb 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

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Feb. 3--A drummer performs during the parade of Nene de Vila Matilde samba school in Sao Paulo, Brazil, on Saturday as part of the annual Brazil Carnival festivities.

Credit: Tulsa World, Okla.

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune Business News; Washington

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 3, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 462511610

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/462511610?accountid=4840

Copyright: To see mor e of the Tulsa World, or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.tulsaworld.com. Copyright (c) 2008, Tulsa World, Okla. Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Last updated: 2017-10-30

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 59 of 313

February 4, 2008 (Page 6 of 73)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]04 Feb 2008: 6.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 39

First page: 6

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 4, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2225878906

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2225878906?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Feb 4, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-16

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 60 of 313

Carnival a likely time for Vale Xstrata deal: [LONDON 1ST EDITION]

Publication info: Financial Times ; London (UK) [London (UK)]04 Feb 2008: 20.

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Abstract:

[Vale] is understood to have secured a five-year bridging loan of Dollars 50bn and persuaded Xstrata's shareholders - including Glencore, the Swiss-based commodities trading company that is its biggest shareholder - to consider accepting about Dollars 38bn in Vale's preferential shares.

These have fewer rights than Vale's ordinary voting shares, held by the controlling group that includes Previ, the pension fund of government-owned Banco do Brasil. The government is also represented on Vale's board through shares held by the BNDES, the national development bank.

Some detect an effort to overcome such resistance in a visit by Roger Agnelli, Vale's chief executive, to Colombia last week. Alvaro Uribe, Colombia's president, said Mr Agnelli had confirmed Vale's interest in investing nearly Dollars 6bn in power generation and an aluminium plant in Colombia, although Vale later said no decision had been made.

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By REBECCA BREAM and JONATHAN WHEATLEY

A takeover of Xstrata, the Anglo-Swiss mining group, by Vale, its Brazilian rival, could be announced during the carnival celebrations in Brazil, which run until Wednesday.

A deal would create the world's biggest mining company and turn Vale, already the world's biggest producer of iron ore, into a fully diversified global player. It would come at a time when strong global demand, especially from China, is likely to produce a 40-50 per cent rise in iron ore prices this year.

"They could well take the chance to announce it during Carnaval, while the public is distracted," says one person familiar with the situation.

An announcement during Carnaval might attract less public attention to a deal that senior ministers oppose.

However, others close to negotiations in London say that an agreement could still be two or three weeks away.

In 2006, Vale surprised industry observers by buying Inco, a Canadian nickel miner, for Dollars 18bn. A takeover of Xstrata is expected to cost about Dollars 90bn.

Vale is understood to have secured a five-year bridging loan of Dollars 50bn and persuaded Xstrata's shareholders - including Glencore, the Swiss-based commodities trading company that is its biggest shareholder - to consider accepting about Dollars 38bn in Vale's preferential shares.

These have fewer rights than Vale's ordinary voting shares, held by the controlling group that includes Previ, the pension fund of government-owned Banco do Brasil. The government is also represented on Vale's board through shares held by the BNDES, the national development bank.

A person close to the office of Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, the president, said that ministers objected to the deal because it would leave Glencore as Vale's second biggest single shareholder, potentially marking the first step to a foreign takeover, and because they would prefer to see Vale spending money on projects closer to home.

But observers said the delay in securing government approval owed more to ideology than concerns.

"This is all part of the history of the PT," said one market participant in Sao Paulo. The left-wing PT, or Workers' Party, came to power with President da Silva in 2003. It opposed Vale's privatisation in 1997 and its members have been involved in attempts to re-nationalise the company.

Some detect an effort to overcome such resistance in a visit by Roger Agnelli, Vale's chief executive, to Colombia last week. Alvaro Uribe, Colombia's president, said Mr Agnelli had confirmed Vale's interest in investing nearly Dollars 6bn in power generation and an aluminium plant in Colombia, although Vale later said no decision had been made.

Rumours circulating at the weekend suggested that if the deal were delayed much longer, it could be scuppered by a dawn raid similar to the move on Rio Tinto by Chin-alco and Alcoa on Friday that threatens to derail a planned takeover by BHP Billiton. Chinalco's backers at the China Development Bank were said to be looking at a stake in Xstrata.

But a senior-ranking person in Sao Paulo with knowledge of the deal said such rumours could be designed to put pressure on Vale and the Brazilian government. "The truth is that Glencore is praying for the deal to be closed quickly," the person said.

Editorial Comment, Page 12 See The Real Deal

People: Wheatley, Jonathan

Publication title: Financial Times; London (UK)

Pages: 20

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 4, 2008

Section: COMPANIES - UK

Publisher: The Financial Times Limited

Place of publication: London (UK)

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London (UK)

Publication subject: Business And Economics--Banking And Finance, Political Science

ISSN: 03071766

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: NEWSPAPER

ProQuest document ID: 250068588

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/250068588?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright Financial Times Ltd. 2008. All rights reserved.)

Last updated: 2017-11-14

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 61 of 313

February 5, 2008 (Page 8 of 60)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]05 Feb 2008: 8.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 40

First page: 8

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 5, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2226128139

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2226128139?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Feb 5, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-16

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 62 of 313

February 5, 2008 (Page 28 of 60)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]05 Feb 2008: 28.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 40

First page: 28

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 5, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2226128531

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2226128531?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Feb 5, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-16

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 63 of 313

International news briefs: Ryanair to pay Sarkozy and new wife $90,000 in damages

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune News Service ; Washington [Washington]05 Feb 2008: 1.

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Abstract:

The ruling came in connection with an advertisement published in the popular French daily Le Parisien that showed Sarkozy and [Carla Bruni] smiling while a thought balloon above Bruni's head read, "With Ryanair my entire family can come to my wedding."

In an interview posted on the Foreign Ministry's official Web site Tuesday, Sergei Kislyak said Iran should freeze enrichment activity until all of its nuclear program's "complicated points have been worked out."

The Russian official hailed Iran's cooperation with the U.N. nuclear watchdog in clarifying all the outstanding issues over its nuclear program. "This is very important in the context of restoring confidence related to Iran's (nuclear) program."

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PARIS -- A Paris court has upheld a lawsuit filed by French President Nicolas Sarkozy and his new wife, supermodel-turned- singer Carla Bruni, against the budget Irish airline Ryanair, French media said Tuesday.

The ruling came in connection with an advertisement published in the popular French daily Le Parisien that showed Sarkozy and Bruni smiling while a thought balloon above Bruni's head read, "With Ryanair my entire family can come to my wedding."

The couple had complained that their images were used without their consent.

The court ordered Ryanair to pay a total of 60,000 euros ($90,000) in damages to Bruni, who had earlier asked the Irish airline to pay 500,000 euros ($736,000). Sarkozy had only asked for a symbolic sum of one euro ($1.47) in damages.

Ryanair France's commercial director, Matthieu Glasson, apologized for offending the president and his wife. "We are surprised because if you look at the ad, the photo shows both of them in quite a positive light: they are smiling, we aren't making them say anything stupid," he said.

Sarkozy, 53, and Bruni, 40, have been on the front pages of newspapers and magazines since his divorce from his second wife Cecilia in October. In December, Bruni accompanied the president on his trip to Egypt and later to Jordan.

Bruni became France's first lady on Feb. 2.

RUSSIA CALLS ON IRAN TO FREEZE URANIUM ENRICHMENT

MOSCOW -- Russia has called on Iran to freeze uranium enrichment until key issues in its nuclear program have been cleared up with the IAEA, a Russian deputy foreign minister has said.

In an interview posted on the Foreign Ministry's official Web site Tuesday, Sergei Kislyak said Iran should freeze enrichment activity until all of its nuclear program's "complicated points have been worked out."

"I believe that all this is entirely achievable if the appropriate political decisions are taken. International concerns can be easily allayed to create more favorable conditions for Iran's extensive cooperation with other countries," Kislyak said.

Western countries, particularly the United States, suspect Tehran is pursuing a covert weapons program. However, Tehran has consistently claimed it needs nuclear power for civilian power generation and is fully entitled to its own nuclear program.

The Russian official hailed Iran's cooperation with the U.N. nuclear watchdog in clarifying all the outstanding issues over its nuclear program. "This is very important in the context of restoring confidence related to Iran's (nuclear) program."

PRAYERS SERVE AS MONEY AT CROATIAN CAFE

Customers at a newly opened coffee shop in the Croatian capital of Zagreb pay with prayers instead of money for drinks, the Ananova news Web site said Tuesday.

The number of prayers depends on a kind of a drink the visitor wants to order. The most expensive beverage at the Jedro cafe is Coca-Cola, which costs five "Hail Marys," while a cappuccino costs four "Our Fathers."

No alcoholic beverages are served in the shop, which is financed by local parish authorities in Zagreb's Jarun district. Hardly surprisingly, the cafe is enjoying great popularity among locals.

"We started out with only five tables, but we have so many people coming here now that we are already up to 20 tables and it is growing all the time," said a spokesman for the shop.

RIO SAMBA COMPETITION CLOSES AFTER NON-STOP DANCING

RIO DE JANEIRO, Brazil -- The Rio de Janeiro carnival reached its climax early on Tuesday as the country's best dance schools competed in the samba contest.

The competition took place at the Samborome, where more than 70,000 visitors crowded near a 700-meter runway in a poor district in the city's north.

Twelve of Brazil's top samba schools presented their programs to try to win the title of most creative and imaginative group in this year's carnival.

Due to technical problems and poor weather several groups delayed their performance and last year's champions, the Beija Flor dancing school, began its performance at sunrise.

During the competition, each group could receive up to 10 points in 10 categories, including performance, choreography, originality of the costumes and decorations. The 2008 champions will be announced Wednesday, after all the marks have been counted.

In their performances samba dancers reflected themes in Brazilian history, mythology, natural resources and, even, its rich multicultural make up.

INDIAN WILDLIFE AWARD WINNER TURNS DUCK KILLER

NEW DELHI -- An Indian man who won an award for his work in protecting migratory birds was caught red-handed poaching ducks at a lake in east India's state of Orissa, the Times of India paper said Tuesday.

Dibakar Behera, head of a local anti-poaching organization, received the prestigious award for his initiative to protect endangered birds at India's largest coastal lake, Chilika, in October 2007. Four months later he was detained with two dead birds in his possession at the same lake.

"He may have received the award, but no one is above the law. He committed a crime and should be punished," a divisional forest ranger said.

The protectionist-turned-duck killer has been remanded in custody after a local court rejected his bail plea.

The newspaper cited residents of Chilika as saying that Behera "had been poaching birds for years, but the authorities failed to act on complaints and instead recommended him for the award."

BLIZZARDS AND FROST GRIP AFGHANISTAN AS DEATH TOLL RISES

KABUL, Afghanistan -- A total of 37 people, including 20 children, have frozen to death in east Afghanistan's Ghazni province in the past 24 hours, the provincial governor said on Tuesday.

A number of people died after their vehicles were blocked by snowdrifts, Faizullah Faizan said.

Blizzards and freezing weather across the whole of Afghanistan have so far killed over 300 people in recent weeks. The death toll is expected to continue to rise.

Heavy snowfalls have almost completely isolated many roads linking the capital to outlying districts and remote areas, hampering the efforts of aid workers.

SAUDI ARABIAN WOMAN LOOKS FOR 16TH HUSBAND

DAMASCUS, Syria -- A woman from Saudi Arabia who has divorced one husband and outlived 14 hopes to get married for the 16th time, Syria's state-run Tishrin newspaper said Monday.

Noora, whose current surname is unclear, said that the reason practically all of her husbands have been older than 60 is that she has always looked for a rich man who could bear responsibility for the family. At one period in her life, Noora went through 10 husbands in two years.

Her first husband, a 60-year-old, died soon after their wedding and the woman married his friend, who soon died of heart failure. Noora's third husband was killed in a car accident.

Her fourth husband, who was 55 when they got married, also died of heart problems, after three years of marriage. He was the father of Noora's only child, who is mentally disabled.

Noora's largest ever dower, over $40,000, was paid by an 85-year- old Saudi Arabian businessman, who died a month after marrying the oft-widowed Arabic lady. Her most recent husband paid just over $8,000. However, after three months and four days of family life, he died at his relatives' home in Kuwait. His relatives have so far failed to inform Noora of the cause and circumstances of his death.

While Noora admits that having an elderly husband has its drawbacks, she says she is ready to tie the knot with a senior citizen once again.(c) 2008, RIA NovostiDistributed by McClatchy- Tribune Information Services.

For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800- 374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Credit: RIA Novosti

Company / organization: Name: Ryanair; NAICS: 481111

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune News Service; Washington

First page: 1

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 5, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

ProQuest document ID: 456472177

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/456472177?accountid=4840

Copyright: (c) 2008, RIA Novosti Distributed by Knight Ridder/TribuneInformation Services.

Last updated: 2018-02-21

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 64 of 313

February 6, 2008 (Page 26 of 68)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]06 Feb 2008: 26.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 48

Issue: 287

First page: 26

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 6, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249098705

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249098705?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Feb 6, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 65 of 313

Nordstrom Celebrates Black History Month with Exclusive Soul Music Compilation CD

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Precinct Reporter ; San Bernardino, Calif. [San Bernardino, Calif]07 Feb 2008: A10.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

In celebration of Black History Month, Nordstrom will sell an exclusive CD entitled "Immortal Soul-Essential Recordings from the Golden Age" this month. "Immortal Soul" is a handpicked compilation of Soul and R&B tracks that capture the romance, heartbreak and sensuality of the genre. Together, the chosen tracks trace the evolution of the Rhythm and Blues of the '50s into the Soul of the '60s and beyond.

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In celebration of Black History Month, Nordstrom will sell an exclusive CD entitled "Immortal Soul-Essential Recordings from the Golden Age" this month. "Immortal Soul" is a handpicked compilation of Soul and R&B tracks that capture the romance, heartbreak and sensuality of the genre. Together, the chosen tracks trace the evolution of the Rhythm and Blues of the '50s into the Soul of the '60s and beyond.

This Nordstrom-exclusive CD features tracks from Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, James Brown, Otis Redding and Etta James, as well as a track recorded exclusively for the album by Sharon Jones and the Dap Kings.

All after-cost proceeds from the sale of "Immortal Soul" will benefit three music education programs for youth in underserved communities. The benefiting organizations are Opus 118 Harlem School of Music in New York, Merit School of Music in Chicago and Scholarship Audition Performance Academy in Los Angeles.

"We are honored to celebrate Black History Month through music with this exclusive CD," said Amelia Ransom Letcher, divisional vice president and corporate Diversity Affairs director for Nordstrom. "We are especially thrilled to partner with three incredible schools that celebrate the importance of music in our communities."

Sidebar

Subject: Musical recordings; Soul music; Fund raising; Musicians & conductors; Black history; Department stores

Location: United States--US

People: Letcher, Amelia Ransom

Company / organization: Name: Nordstrom Inc; NAICS: 448140, 448210, 452111

Ethnicity: African American, Caribbean, African

Publication title: Precinct Reporter; San Bernardino, Calif.

Volume: 42

Issue: 28

Pages: A10

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 7, 2008

Section: ENTERTAINMENT

Publisher: Precinct Reporter

Place of publication: San Bernardino, Calif.

Country of publication: United States, San Bernardino, Calif.

Publication subject: African American/Caribbean/African, General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 367805172

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/367805172?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Precinct Reporter Feb 7, 2008

Last updated: 2015-05-16

Database: Ethnic NewsWatch

Document 66 of 313

Happenings

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Ocala Star - Banner ; Ocala, Fla. [Ocala, Fla]07 Feb 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

"GIMME GREEN": CFCC will screen the film "Gimme Green," which focuses on America's lawn obsession, at 7 p.m. Wednesday, followed by a discussion with producers Eric Flagg and Isaac Brown at the Webber Center on the Ocala campus, 3001 S.W. College Road. Free. 854-2322

GUYS' NIGHT OUT: Ocala's Downtown Business Alliance and its participating vendors will host a poker-themed Guys' Night Out from 5 to 9 p.m. Tuesday along the downtown Ocala square. Stores and venues will offer discounts, giveaways, refreshments and assistance for [VALENTINE]'s Day shopping. 671-7425

"A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM" BALLET: The Marion Performing Ballet will perform Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" as a one-act ballet at 7:30 p.m. today and Friday at CFCC's Fine Arts Auditorium, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. $10 for adults, $5 for students. 629-6155

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HAVE A HEART FOR ART: RSVP by today for the buffet dinner and wine tasting that runs 7 to 10 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 14, at the Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 S.W. Broadway St. Also features music my Michelle Lamb and a silent auction. $30; proceeds benefit the center's Brick Patio Restoration Project. 840-9521

HORSES FOR HOSPICE: The Central Florida Greenway will host the eighth annual Horses for Hospice Trail Ride at 10 a.m. Saturday at the Florida Horse Park, 11008 S. County Road 475, Ocala. $25. 854-5218

HORSE SHOW: The Sparr United Methodist Church will hold its monthly Open Horse Show at 9 a.m. Saturday at 13100 N.E. Jacksonville Road, Sparr. 622-9705

WINGS OF FREEDOM TOUR: Vintage World War II bombers, the Boeing B-17 Flying Fortress and a B-24 Mitchell, will be on display at Ocala International Airport-Jim Taylor Field, 750 S.W. 60th Ave., from 2 p.m. Friday through 3 p.m. Sunday. Seeing them is free. Tours are $10 for adults and $5 ages 11 and younger. Thirty-minute flights start at $325. 800-568-8924

AUTHOR LUCY BEEBE TOBIAS: Author and former Star-Banner columnist will show some of her photos and discuss her new book, "50 Great Walks in Florida," at 6:45 p.m. Wednesday, in Room C at the Ocala Public Library along East Silver Springs Boulevard, Ocala. Free. 629-7397 or www.lucyworks.com

Other appearances:

2 to 4 p.m. Sunday at Barnes & Noble, 3500 S.W. College Road, Ocala

11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 14, at Books Inc./Book Lovers Cafe, 505 N.W. 13th St., Gainesville

BLACK HISTORY MONTH PROGRAM: Event will feature Mary Alexander, the first black female model used by Coca-Cola in mainstream advertising, from 1 to 2 p.m. today at the Marion Oaks Public Library in the Marion Oaks Community Center, 294 Marion Oaks Lane, Ocala. Light refreshments will be provided. 438-2570

QUILT SHOW: The Anthony Quilt 'n' Go Club's Quilt Show runs 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday and Saturday at the Ocala Marion County Realtor Board, 3105 N.E. 14th St., Ocala. $4. Fee for appraisals. 629-6935

OCALA RV SHOW: Event runs today through Sunday at the Florida Horse Park, 11008 S. County Road 475, Ocala. 813-741-0488

HAVE A HEART FOOD AND FASHION EXTRAVAGANZA: Fundraiser for Eckerd Youth Alternatives Early Intervention and Prevention Services in Marion County starts at 5:30 p.m. Friday at the Pioneer Garden Club, 4331 E. Silver Springs, Ocala. $50 in advance. 671-3789

"GIMME GREEN": CFCC will screen the film "Gimme Green," which focuses on America's lawn obsession, at 7 p.m. Wednesday, followed by a discussion with producers Eric Flagg and Isaac Brown at the Webber Center on the Ocala campus, 3001 S.W. College Road. Free. 854-2322

VALENTINE'S DAY DANCE: The Fort McCoy/Eureka Community Service Center will host a Valentine's Day Dance featuring live music from 6 to 10 p.m. Friday at the community center, 14051 E. County Road 316, Fort McCoy. Free. 236-3685

WINE TASTING: The Grape Vine Wine Shop will host free wine tastings from 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday at the shop, 4701 S.W. College Road, Suite 104, Ocala. 622-WINE

GIRLS' NIGHT OUT: Downtown stores and vendors will stay open through 9 tonight in downtown Ocala. Participants can start at Ani's Shabby Shak, 56 S.E. First Ave., to pick up activity instructions and vendor maps. Free. Sponsored by Ocala's Downtown Business Alliance. 671-7425

GUYS' NIGHT OUT: Ocala's Downtown Business Alliance and its participating vendors will host a poker-themed Guys' Night Out from 5 to 9 p.m. Tuesday along the downtown Ocala square. Stores and venues will offer discounts, giveaways, refreshments and assistance for Valentine's Day shopping. 671-7425

COMIC BOOK SHOW: Johnny Commons Sports Cards will host a sports memorabilia and comic book show from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday at the Hilton-Ocala, off State Road 200 near Interstate 75 in Ocala. 245-7264

"THE LIGHT OF LOVE": Draw All Men Ministries presents its dinner-theater production and ministry at 7 p.m. Saturday at Klein Center at Central Florida Community, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. $40 per person. Black-tie affair. 351-3729

FASHION SHOW LUNCHEON: The Queen of Peace Council of Catholic Women will sponsor a fashion show luncheon at noon Friday at the Golden Ocala Golf & Equestrian Club, 8300 N.W. 31st Lane Road, Ocala. 237-9956

FISH FRY: The Ocklawaha River Valley Civic Club will hold a fish fry with catfish, cheese grits, cole slaw, baked beans, hush puppies and dessert at 6 p.m. Saturday at the club along Northeast 160th Avenue Road, Hog Valley. Price: $8 a plate. 546-1108

ART IN THE PARK FESTIVAL: Event runs 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday at Log Cabin Park, 106 S. U.S. 441, Lady Lake. Free. 352-344-0657

SPIRIT OF CITRUS DANCE: The Spirit of Citrus Dancers will hold a birthday dance at 7 p.m. Saturday at the Kellner Auditorium, 102 Civic Circle, Beverly Hills. $7 for nonmembers, $5 for members. 344-3768

TOMMY CASH: Johnny Cash's little brother will perform from 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday at the Florida Sunshine Opry, 431 Plaza Drive, Eustis. $15. 352-821-0000

WAYNE NEWTON: The Las Vegas superstar will perform at 3 p.m. Saturday at Silver Springs, 5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Silver Springs. Opening band starts at noon. Park admission: $24.99-$33.99. 236-2121

SUNDAY SAMPLER CONCERT: The Will McLean Foundation will host Jon Semmes and The Florida Friends in concert at 2:30 p.m. Sunday at Dunnellon's historic depot, 12061 S. Williams St., Dunnellon. $8. 465-2181

PAUL WILLIAMS: Paul Williams and The Victory Trio will perform at 7:30 p.m. Friday at College Road Baptist Church, 5010 S.W. College Road, 1.7 miles west of Interstate 75. $8. 237-5741

ROCKABILLY U.S.: Rock and country musical revue with full cast and band starts at 7 p.m. Saturday at the Marion Technical Institute, 1614 S.E. Fort King St., Ocala. $33. 671-4765

Other Rockabilly U.S. shows at MTI: March 15, April 26, June 14 and July 26

COMBINED CHURCH CHOIRS: Choirs from five churches along the State Road 200 corridor will perform in the Sunday Afternoon Arts concert at 3 p.m. Sunday at Countryside Presbyterian Church, 7768 S.W. SR 200, Ocala. 237-4633

GALA CONCERT: The Marion Chamber Music Society will present its 25th Anniversary Gala Concert at 3 p.m. Sunday at Queen of Peace Catholic Church, 6455 S.W. State Road 200, Ocala. 867-1340

"ALWAYS ... PATSY CLINE": The stage musical based on Patsy Cline's friendship with a Texas woman runs through Feb. 24 at the Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. Show times: 8 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays, 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. $10-$20. 236-2851

"A MIDSUMMER NIGHT'S DREAM" BALLET: The Marion Performing Ballet will perform Shakespeare's "A Midsummer Night's Dream" as a one-act ballet at 7:30 p.m. today and Friday at CFCC's Fine Arts Auditorium, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. $10 for adults, $5 for students. 629-6155

JOKEBOY'S COMEDY CLUB: Comics Eddie Gossling, Kelly MacFarland and Brian Walters will perform at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday at JokeBoy's Comedy Club, 18 S.W. Broadway St., Ocala. $12-$14. 368-5653

BONKERZ COMEDY CLUB: Comics Whodi and Bryan Hamilton will perform at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday at 718 E. Pine Ave., Ocala. $7. 425-8480

"FINS, FEATHERS AND FURS": Marion Cultural Alliance exhibit showcases animal-themed art through Feb. 15 at the Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 S.W. Broadway St., downtown Ocala. Hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. Free.

SILVER SPRINGS: 5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Silver Springs. A 350-acre nature theme park. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. $33.99 for adults and $24.99 for children. 236-2121

"Giants: African Dinosaurs" - through April 13

Albino alligators - Two rare, 4 1/2-foot-long albino alligators now on permanent display

THE APPLETON MUSEUM OF ART: 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. $6 for adults; $4 for seniors and $3 for children ages 10 to 17; free for museum members, CFCC students, active military personnel and their families, and children 9 and under. 291-4455

"Silver Springs: The Underwater World of Bruce Mozert" - Underwater photography exhibit runs through May 11

"Recent Works"- British-born artist John Kingerlee's exhibit runs Saturday through March 30

WEBBER CENTER: Gallery on CFCC campus, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. Hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays. Free. 873-5809

Visual Arts Faculty Exhibition - Works by CFCC faculty will be on display through Saturday, Feb. 16

CFCC CITRUS CAMPUS EXHIBITION HALL: On campus, Building 2, 3800 S. Lecanto Highway, Lecanto. Hours: 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Free. 352-746-6721, ext. 6131

Nature art by Keith M. Mitchell - exhibit runs Monday through March 14; opening reception runs 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 14, featuring light refreshments and a classical guitarist

PRIMARY GALLERY: Gallery inside Primary Oven, 306 S.W. Broadway St., Ocala. Hours: 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays. 390-6881

Work by artists Melissa Fiorentino, Nancy Moskovitz, Barbara Kerr, Donald Browning, Margaret Watts, Elaine Trice, Lucy Tobias and others are on display through Feb. 22

GALLERY EAST: 4901 N.E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays. Free. 236-6992

BANK OF AMERICA GALLERY: 35 S.E. First Ave., Ocala. Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Free. 732-0170

"Celebrating Black Heritage"- Art by Marshall Pettway on display through Feb. 28

SILVER RIVER MUSEUM AND ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER: 1425 N.E. 58th Ave. (within Silver River State Park off Baseline Road), Ocala. Museum features American Indian artifacts, fossils, natural history dioramas, an 1800s "Cracker" homestead and a vintage glass-bottom boat. Park features nature trails, swamp boardwalk and Silver River overlook. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. $2, children 6 and younger free. 236-5401 or www. silverrivermuseum.com

MARION COUNTY MUSEUM OF HISTORY: McPherson Governmental Complex, 307 S.E. 26th Terrace, Ocala. Hours: 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays. Admission: $2. 629-2773

MELROSE BAY ART GALLERY: 103 S.E. State Road 26 (east of Gainesville), Melrose. Hours: 3 to 7 p.m. Fridays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturdays and 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays. 475-3866 or mbagallery.smugmug.com

THE KIKA SILVA PLA PLANETARIUM: 3000 N.W. 83rd St., Building X, Room 129, Santa Fe Community College, Gainesville. 352-395-5381

HARN MUSEUM OF ART: Southwest 34th Street and Hull Road, Gainesville. 352-392-9826 or www.harn.ufl.edu

"Paradigms and the Unexpected: Modern and Contemporary Art from the Shey Collection" - exhibit of modern art, featuring works by Georgia O'Keeffe, opens Sunday and runs through May 18

"University of Florida's Photographic Legacy" - More than 35 works by UF faculty and former students will be featured March 11 through Aug. 17

CEDAR KEYHOLE GALLERY: 457 Second St., Cedar Key. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 543-5801 or cedarkeyhole.com

GALLERY UNDER THE OAKS: 207 Cholokka Blvd., downtown historic Micanopy. Hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily. 466-9229 or www.micanopyarts.org

"ALL I REALLY NEED TO KNOW I LEARNED IN KINDERGARTEN": Stage adaptation of Robert Fulghum's work runs Feb. 14-22 at Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. $8-$16. 236-2274

SWEET HONEY IN THE ROCK: The singing group will perform at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 15, at the Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 315 Hull Road, UF campus, Gainesville. $15-$30. 800-905-2787

FASHION SHOW: The St. Joseph of the Forest Fashion Show will feature fashions by Bon Worth and entertainment by Di Lemon and Associates at 11 a.m. Saturday, Feb. 16, at the church hall, 17301 E. State Road 40, Silver Springs. $8. 625-2095

GARDENING AND NATURE DAYS: The Friends of Rainbow Springs State Park present this day of walks, demonstrations, presentations and wildlife, gardening and landscaping information from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 16, and 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 17, at Rainbow Springs State Park, four miles north of Dunnellon off U.S. 41. Entrance fee is $1 for ages 6 and older.

LLAMAS: See llamas from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 16, and Sunday, Feb. 17, at the Ocala Equestrian Complex, 1601 S.W. 60th Ave., Ocala. Free. 496-1612

FOLK ART DAYS: The Pioneer Settlement for the Creative Arts will present a weekend of classes on blacksmithing, fiddle, guitar, knitting, printing, pottery, quilting and more on Saturday, Feb. 16, and Sunday, Feb. 17, at the Pioneer Settlement in Barberville. Fees vary by class. 386-749-2959

SUSAN STARR: Concert pianist will perform a recital at 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 17, at CFCC's Fine Arts Auditorium on the Ocala campus, 3001 S.W. College Road. $25. 867-1340

Starr will conduct a master class at 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 16, at the Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. $20 (or $40 for both events; $20 for students for both events).

AMERICA: The folk-rock band America ("Horse With No Name") will perform at Silver Springs on Saturday, Feb. 16. Music starts at noon. The park is at 5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Silver Springs. Park admission: $24.99-$33.99. 236-2121

JASON RICCI & NEW BLOOD: The blues-rockers and Electro Groove recording artists will perform at 7 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 17, at Tin Cup's Tavern on the downtown Ocala square.

WADE HAMMOND: The award-winning Christian recording artist will perform at St. Mark's UMC at 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sunday, Feb. 17, at 1839 N.E. Eighth Ave., Ocala. Free. 369-5904

"BORN INTO BROTHELS": CFCC will present this 85-minute Indian film that documents children in Calcutta's Red Light district at 2 and 7 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 19, at the Ocala campus, 3001 S.W. College Road, Building 8, Room 110. 854-2322, ext. 1233

CHAMBER SINGERS: CFCC will host the Orlando Chamber Singers at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 19, at the Fine Arts Auditorium at the Ocala campus, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. 854-2322, ext. 1231

"SPAMALOT": Monty Python's stage play "Spamalot" will run at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 19-24 at the Times Union Center, 300 Water St., Jacksonville. $27-$74. 904-632-3373

WINTER FESTIVAL AND CARNIVAL: Trinity Catholic High School will host a carnival 5 to 11 p.m. Feb. 21-22, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Feb. 23 and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Feb. 24 on the school's campus, 2600 S.W. 42nd Ave., Ocala. 622-9025, ext. 1116

DIONNE WARWICK: Famed singer will perform at 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 22, as part of the Parents' Night Out portion of the weekend's Kidfetti festival. Warwick will perform near the Ocala Regional Airport, Southwest 60th Avenue and Southwest 38th Street, Ocala. Tickets: $25 in advance, $40 at the gate. www.kidfetti.com or 291-5462

KIDFETTI: Family-friendly music and community festival will include Drake Bell, Teddy Geiger, Paula DeAnda, Hunter Hayes, 535 and other acts on Saturday, Feb. 23, at Southwest 60th Avenue and Southwest 38th Street, Ocala. $15 in advance, $25 at the gate. www.kidfetti.com or 291-5461

CAR, TRUCK, BIKE AND CRAFT SHOW: Joy Lutheran Church's second annual Family Fun Day car, truck, bike and craft show will run 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 23, at the church, 7045 S.W. 83rd Place, Ocala. $10 entry fee. 854-4509

FLEA MARKET: The Temple B'Nai Darom will hold a flea market from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 24, at 49 Banyan Course, Ocala. Outside spaces are $10; inside spaces are $15. 861-9551

KINGDOM OF THE SUN CONCERT BAND: Friends of the Foundation of Central Florida Community College will host this concert at 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 24, in the CFCC Fine Arts Auditorium, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. Free; donations will support the Friends of the Foundation Endowed Scholarship in memory of Bob and Carolyn Hoffman and are eligible for state matching funds. 854-2322, ext. 15

SINGERS OF UNITED LANDS: Vocal quartet from Brazil, Georgia, Zimbabwe and the Czech Republic will perform at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 25, in CFCC's Fine Arts Auditorium, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. Free. The International Students Club will host a reception after the show. 854-2322, ext. 1728, or www.singersofunitedlands. org

CENTURY VEHICLE RECOGNITION CELEBRATION: Century Vehicle Recognition Celebration, Sunday, Feb. 17 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Tuscawilla Park. Car show featuring vehicles 1915 and older with musical entertainment by the Good Times Jazz Band. Food will be available. Bring lawn chairs. Free. 352-368-5518.

JEFF BATES: Country concert will begin at noon Thursday, Feb. 28, on the downtown Ocala square. Free. 368-5518

BENEFIT DINNER: The Andrew Semesco Foundation will host its seventh annual benefit dinner at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 29, at CFCC's Harvey Klein Conference Center on the Ocala Campus. $50. 895-3654

"TWO SAINT SAY": Play by West Virginian author Ancella Bickley starts at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 29 and March 1, with a 2 p.m. matinee on March 1, at the CFCC Fine Arts Auditorium, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. The African-American Student Union is sponsoring the play in honor of Black History Month. $5. 750-6381

"THE ORPHAN TRAIN": Theatre for Young Audiences production will run March 1-9 on the outdoor stage of Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. Performances start at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturdays and 3 p.m. on Sundays. $5. 236-2274

THREE DAYS GRACE: Band ("I Hate Everything About You") will join on a bill with Breaking Benjamin at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 4, at the Ford Amphitheatre at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa. $26.50-$30. 407-839-3900

WESTERN NEW YORK REUNION: The 42nd annual reunion will be held at 10:30 a.m. March 5 at Tropic Isles Park Auditorium, 3100 10th St. West, Palmetto. $2. 941-721-9748

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ISRAEL: The fourth annual Cantorial Concert, "Israel at 60: Melodies of Milk and Honey," starts at 4 p.m. Sunday, March 9, at the Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 N.E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. $22-$25. 347-2481

ST. PATRICK'S DAY: The sixth annual Ocala's St. Patrick's Day, featuring music, food and other entertainment, will run from 5 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, March 15, on the downtown Ocala square. Free. 368-5518

ARTS AND CRAFTS: The Belleview South Marion Chamber of Commerce will sponsor an arts and crafts fair on Saturday, May 3, at City Hall Park behind Belleview City Hall on U.S. 441.

Items for the Guide should be submitted by 5 p.m. Friday for publication the following week. Press releases may be left in the main lobby of the Star-Banner building, 2121 S.W. 19th Ave. Road, Ocala; mailed to P.O. Box 490, Ocala, FL 34478; faxed to 867-4018; or e-mailed to go@starbanner.com.

People: Tobias, Lucy Beebe

Publication title: Ocala Star - Banner; Ocala, Fla.

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 7, 2008

Publisher: Halifax Media Group

Place of publication: Ocala, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Ocala, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 01633201

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 390383618

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/390383618?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 New York Times Company)

Last updated: 2012-10-13

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 67 of 313

Subdued LatAm bond mart broods in silence

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Euroweek ; London (Feb 8, 2008): n/a.

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Abstract:

Portfolio managers predict emerging market spreads on investment and sub-investment corporate bonds will drag wider with defaults spiking up at the end of the year. As a result, investors are unsure whether current market premiums for primary market deals offer value for money, and are building up cash. This has sparked a diminishing supply of new bond issuance. With a growing number of bond deals scrapped or on hold , many since September 2007, bankers are advising issuers to seek alternative funding strategies.

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There was little activity in Latin American cross-border bond markets this week as issuers returned from the long carnival holidays on Wednesday and mulled the current state of the credit meltdown, as well as the appetite for emerging market assets.

As EuroWeek reported last week, portfolio managers predict emerging market spreads on investment and sub-investment corporate bonds will drag wider with defaults spiking up at the end of the year. As a result, investors are unsure whether current market premiums for primary market deals offer value for money, and are building up cash.

This has sparked a diminishing supply of new bond issuance. Last week, Brazilian bank BicBanco was forced to postpone its three year deal, while Bancolombia cancelled its $300m peso denominated bond due to the liquidity crisis.

With a growing number of bond deals scrapped or on hold , many since September 2007 , bankers are advising issuers to seek alternative funding strategies.

"We are now advising issuers not to have a single track mind and look aggressively into alternatives," said one DCM head in New York. "Namely, the shift away from bond markets into syndicated loans and other capital infusions."

In this context of tight liquidity, volatile secondary market conditions and the unpredictable flurry of negative financial news, private placements look set to soar this year, according to market participants.

"I am now involved in lots of private placement deals because it offers agility in execution, confidentiality and flexibility," said one bond syndicate head.

Borrowers are still able to secure anything from $10m-$500m with the stability and ease of transactions now overriding concerns about costs, said one banker.

"It's now about getting these transactions completed in a timely and predictable fashion as opposed to being exposed to the ebbs and flows of the broader market in the public space."

Nevertheless, Brazilian bank Banco Cruzeiro do Sul is seeking to access the bond market, roadshowing this week its $30m 18 month bond to yield 7.50% via BCP. The issue should be out on February 20, according to a banker involved on the deal.

Slow sovereigns

The sovereign bond market will also slow down this year, according to Standard & Poor's.

The agency predicts that government borrowing in the region , accessed from both multilaterals and capital markets , will fall to $290bn from $322bn last year.

This is not necessarily down to deteriorating external market conditions Sovereigns are still able to command ever-aggressive terms to a compliant market due to the scarcity of sovereign paper. Instead, improved fiscal policies in the region and longer bond tenors have reduced refinancing needs.

S&P predicts that Brazil should continue to be the biggest issuer this year, followed by Mexico, Colombia, and Venezuela.

Meanwhile, Peru has announced a tender offer for its outstanding PDI Brady bonds that mature in 2017, paying 70% of par plus the accrued interest up to the redemption date.

The sovereign expects a high take up of this offer, which expires on March 8, according to Jose Miguel Ugarte, the debt director at the country's finance ministry.

"We are not in a position to issue debt since we have already done this last year. We are just accumulating cash to execute the Brady call. 2008 has so far been a very bad year for the market but the macroeconomic conditions in Peru are very strong," he told EuroWeek.

He expressed confidence that surplus tax revenues along with local market borrowing will go the whole way in repaying this debt as well as the par bonds due March 2027.

He also argued that since local debt markets were now a buffer to external market conditions, it validated Peru's aggressive strategy of converting dollar denominated debt into local currency.

Nevertheless, financial market turmoil , specifically a further decline in the value of the US dollar , could in fact boost LatAm sovereign ratings, according to Moody's.

"The effects would be particularly noticeable in Latin America, which is unsurprising given the high proportion of US dollar denominated debt of some countries in the region. In Uruguay's case, debts ratios would decrease significantly, by more than 10%."

A weaker dollar would also boost debt metrics in Brazil, Colombia and Peru, the agency adds.

However, a sharp and disorderly descent of the dollar would substantially erode competitiveness and imperil the region's economic resurgence.

"Since countries not pegged to the US dollar would lose out to the benefit of dollar-pegged economies, it is likely that Europe and Latin America would predominantly lose and Asia would gain," Moody's said.

With issuers, bankers and investors preoccupied with making top-down calls about how the financial market turmoil will impact pricing and risk appetite later in the year, bankers don't expect a flurry of cross-border bond issues from sub-investment grade names anytime soon.

Subject: Bond markets; Financial institutions; International finance; Emerging markets

Location: Latin America

Classification: 8100: Financial services industry; 3400: Investment analysis & personal finance; 9173: Latin America

Publication title: Euroweek; London

Pages: n/a

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 8, 2008

Publisher: Euromoney Institutional Investor PLC

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: Business And Economics

ISSN: 09527036

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 231023525

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/231023525?accountid=4840

Copyright: ( (c) Euromoney Institutional Investor PLC Feb 2008)

Last updated: 2010-06-10

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 68 of 313

Messenger-Inquirer, Owensboro, Ky., Karen Owen column: Local E-Team members raising support for summer missions

Author: Owen, Karen

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune Business News ; Washington [Washington]09 Feb 2008.

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Abstract:

The volunteers may put on carnivals to reach out to the community, run a vacation Bible school, coordinate sports activities, perform mime and music at schools, or clean, paint and landscape. Even if they or their parents can afford that, the team members are encouraged to raise their expenses just as a missionary would, Hubbard said.

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Full text:  

Feb. 9--It's an honor in the Free Will Baptist Church to be selected for the E-Team. A local congregation has three young adults who were chosen to serve this summer.

The E-Team is a ministry of Free Will Baptist International Missions, part of a small denomination based near Nashville.

The ministry usually receives nearly 100 applications each year. Seventy-five high school students are selected to serve.

They will be divided into nine teams. Eight will be going overseas this summer, said Joni Hubbard, student-mission coordinator for the organization. The ninth one will be serving in Chicago at a church that ministers to immigrants.

The local E-Team members are Bryan Lamb, Zac Taylor and Elyse Bradley. Lamb, 18, and Taylor, 17, are both seniors at Daviess County High School.

Lamb feels called to be a missionary, and Taylor feels called to the pastoral ministry, said Zack Anderson, their youth director at First Free Will Baptist Church in Owensboro. Both plan to attend Bible college in Nashville in the fall, Anderson said.

Bradley, 17, is a junior at Daviess County High and assistant drum major there.

It's unusual for so many young people from one church to apply for the E-Team, Hubbard said. All three of the Owensboro youths "had really high recommendations from their references," she said.

The students are assigned to teams depending on their background and skills, she said. The Owensboro members will be going to Spain, Japan and Brazil. "We try not to send people from the same church on the same team," she said.

Participants will go to Nashville for a week of training, then spend two weeks in June working with missionaries.

Their duties will be up to their hosts. The volunteers may put on carnivals to reach out to the community, run a vacation Bible school, coordinate sports activities, perform mime and music at schools, or clean, paint and landscape.

"It's different every year and on every (mission) field," Hubbard said.

For the privilege of volunteering, most of the E-Team members have to pay $2,900. Even if they or their parents can afford that, the team members are encouraged to raise their expenses just as a missionary would, Hubbard said. They can give talks at churches, send letters to family and friends or have fundraisers.

The experience means more to the young people if they had to work hard to get the money, Hubbard said.

First Free Will in Owensboro is helping not only Lamb, Taylor and Bradley raise their funds, but also Anderson, who left this weekend for two weeks of missionary work in Africa. All of them together will cost $12,000, Anderson said.

The congregation runs about 160 to 170 people in worship on Sunday mornings, he said. Raising the extra donations will be a "huge job."

Lamb, Taylor and Bradley are preparing presentations on the E-Team and their destinations. Churches interested in helping them out can call 684-8706.

Credit: Messenger-Inquirer, Owensboro, Ky.

Subject: Secondary school students; Secondary schools; Religion; Baptist churches; Bible

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune Business News; Washington

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 9, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 462457650

DocumentURL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/462457650?accountid=4840

Copyright: To see more of the Messenger-Inquirer, or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.messenger-inquirer.com. Copyright (c) 2008, Messenger-Inquirer, Owensboro, Ky. Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Last updated: 2017-10-30

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 69 of 313

It’s Party Time in the Galleries

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Feb 10, 2008.

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Abstract:

Museums are often better after dark than during daylight hours, with some offering live music or D.J.’s, lectures and, not surprisingly, alcohol.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

IN the movies, being in a museum after dark is not such a great idea: you’re likely to be killed by an albino monk, say, or attacked by miniature cowboys.

In reality, museums after dark are often better than during daylight hours. And you don’t even need Tom Cruise’s help to disable the alarm system: over the last decade, just about all of New York’s major museums — and a few of its minor ones — have jumped on the nocturnal bandwagon, hoping to hook a younger generation on museumgoing. But they’ve hooked the older crowd as well, with some offering live music or D.J.’s, performances and lectures, discount prices and, not surprisingly, booze.

A majority of these evening activities are on Friday nights, seemingly perfect for just-arrived out-of-town weekenders. The crowds they attract appear much more New Yorker than tourist. The average attendee comes with high heels and a hip handbag, not sensible shoes and a Lonely Planet guide.

Some museums offer little more than free entry, and that appears to be enough: lines form early for Target Free Friday Nights at the Museum of Modern Art, for example. But others spice things up.

Art After Dark, the first Friday of most months at the Guggenheim, is probably the most popular. But it comes with a price tag: $25. From 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. the ground floor is taken over by a friendly, fashionable mob that makes it difficult to get to the beer and wine station in the center. Music is provided by the kind of well-known D.J.’s that people who keep track of well-known D.J.’s have heard of.

But of course the Guggenheim is about more than elbowing to the music as you squeeze by strangers in search of a Brooklyn Lager. At some point during the evening you want to head up through the galleries, leaving your drink behind (near airport-level security ensures that no one has the chance to get any merlot on the Miró).

Beware, though: the lines that form outside the museum can be a pre-emptive buzz kill, so you need to get there early — say, by 8:30 — or you risk a long wait in line. That goes double for the next event, on March 7, where museum capacity will be lower because of the set-up of the Cai Guo-Qiang exhibition. (Darn automobiles hanging from the ceiling!)

The Whitney offers a similarly youthful vibe, with a more frequent — but irregular — schedule of Friday night events, which include live music in the Lower Gallery. Featured acts will include So Percussion and Kneebody on Feb. 22 and Tristan Perich on Feb. 29; that’s it until April.

Attracting a wider crowd are First Saturdays at the Brooklyn Museum, which are totally family friendly but not single-person-unfriendly. A full slate of activities includes everything from tours to workshops to films to a dance floor (to alcohol, but you already knew that). On March 1, for example, the theme is on women (for Women’s History month) and Carnival (a month late, but whatever) in Latin America. The music begins at 6 p.m. with the New York-based Colombian musician Lucía Pulido performing, and goes straight through to D.J. Sean Marquand, known for his long-running Sunday night Brazilian shows at the Brooklyn bar Black Betty, who spins from 9 to 11 p.m.

Friday evenings at the three-and-a-half-year-old Rubin Museum in Chelsea are much less known. The museum focuses on Himalayan art at most times, but there is Happy Hour on Fridays starting at 6 p.m. in the K2 Lounge. There are drinks and D.J.’s, film screenings (this Friday it’s the Japanese cult favorite Ichi the Killer), concerts and access to some museum galleries.

Finally, the New Museum of Contemporary Art on the Bowery wins the prize both for frequency — it is open until 10 p.m. on Thursdays (free after 7) and Fridays — and creativity. To wit: the music series called “Get Weird: Experimental and Freaky Jams” on the third Thursday of the month. (There are also other events, many equally quirky.)

But again, sometimes it’s just about the museum. The Metropolitan Museum of Art feels different at night (it’s open until 9 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays), and not just because you don’t have to step over as many people on the stairs going in. The live classical music from overhead in the Balcony Café is a nice touch, but you should also wander back to the Temple of Dendur, which takes on a different feel at night, as the great wall of windows that usually lets in the Central Park sunlight becomes a wall of black, casting an eerie glow over the Egyptian sandstone. No worries, though: it’s still light enough that you won’t worry about albino monks lurking in the shadows.

MERLOT BY THE MIRÓ

Asia Society and Museum, 725 Park Avenue, (212) 288-6400; asiasociety.org. First Fridays: Asia Circle Cocktail Evening, 6 to 9 p.m. in the Leo Bar, free.

Brooklyn Museum, 200 Eastern Parkway, (718) 638-5000; brooklynmuseum.org. Target First Saturdays, 5 to 11 p.m., free.

Bronx Museum of the Arts, 1040 Grand Concourse, (718) 681-6000; bronxmuseum.org. Open every Friday until 8 p.m., free. Also, First Fridays feature special events.

Guggenheim Museum, 1071 Fifth Avenue, (212) 423-3500; guggenheim.org. Art After Dark First Fridays, 9 p.m. to 1 a.m., $25.

New Museum, 235 Bowery, (212) 219-1222; newmuseum.org. Open Thursday and Friday until 10 p.m. Free Thursdays after 7 p.m.

Rubin Museum of Art, 150 West 17th Street, (212) 620-5000; rmanyc.org. Fridays 7 to 10 p.m., free. Happy Hour at K2 Lounge and other programs, 6 to 10 p.m.

Whitney Museum of American Art, 945 Madison Avenue, (800) 944-8639; whitney.org. Fridays, pay what you wish from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Whitney Live, featuring live music, some Fridays at 7 p.m.

Subject: Music; Art galleries & museums; Albinism

Location: New York Latin America Central Park-New York City NY Asia

People: Perich, Tristan Cruise, Tom Cai Guo-Qiang

Company / organization: Name: Asia Society; NAICS: 541720; Name: Brooklyn Museum; NAICS: 712110; Name: Whitney Museum of American Art-New York City NY; NAICS: 712110; Name: Guggenheim Museum; NAICS: 712110; Name: So Percussion; NAICS: 711130; Name: Bronx Museum of the Arts-New York City NY; NAICS: 712110; Name: Kneebody; NAICS: 711 130

Identifier / keyword: Art Museums New York State Lonely Planet Music Kugel, Seth Travel and Vacations Contests and Prizes Parties (Social) Brooklyn (NYC) Museum of Modern Art Cruise, Tom Cai Guo-Qiang Guggenheim, Solomon R, Museum Latin America So Percussion Disc Jockeys New York City Colombia Brooklyn Museum Brazil Metropolitan Museum of Art Rubin Museum of Art CHELSEA (NYC) Himalayas New Museum of Contemporary Art Japan BOWERY (NYC) Whitney Museum of American Art CENTRAL PARK (NYC) Egypt

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 10, 2008

Section: travel

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2222690941

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Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-10

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 70 of 313

February 10, 2008 (Page 66 of 242)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]10 Feb 2008: 66.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 45

First page: 66

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 10, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2226391104

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2226391104?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Feb 10, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-17

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 71 of 313

February 10, 2008 (Page 78 of 311)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]10 Feb 2008: 78.

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Abstract: None available.

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Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 48

Issue: 291

First page: 78

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 10, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249459380

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249459380?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Feb 10, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-30

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Document 72 of 313

February 10, 2008 (Page 94 of 311)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]10 Feb 2008: 94.

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Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 48

Issue: 291

First page: 94

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 10, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249459469

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249459469?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Feb 10, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-30

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 73 of 313

NEWSWEEK International Editions: Highlights and Exclusives, February 18, 2008

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: PR Newswire ; New York [New York]10 Feb 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

The latest Newsweek poll shows that 76 percent of all GOP voters and 69 percent of self-described conservatives say they would be satisfied with McCain as the GOP nominee, but listening to some outspoken conservative pundits, one would hardly think he is doing so well.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

COVER: Turkey's Western Soul (Asia and Atlantic editions). Moscow Bureau Chief Owen Matthews and Special Correspondent Sami Kohen report that Turkey's Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his Islamist-rooted Justice and Development Party (AKP) is undeterred in keeping its 2002 promise to get Turkey into the European Union. Instead of slowing down the pace of change, the AKP has announced its biggest and boldest reform package yet -- a wholesale overhaul of the hard-wiring of the country's political system. Central to the new order is a redrawing of Turkey's 1981 Constitution designed to give more power to the people -- including direct presidential elections -- as well as introducing more freedom of speech and religion. In doing so, the AKP hopes to create a society that Europe simply cannot refuse.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109544

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080210/NYSU002 )

A Good Anchor. Middle East Bureau Chief Christopher Dickey and Senior Editor Rana Foroohar talk with Turkey's most powerful business leaders -- representatives from the country's four largest industrial families -- about the future of their country as it moves toward historic changes. Ali Y. Koc is CEO of Koc Information Technology Group, Ferit Sahenk is chairman and CEO of the Dogus Group, Mehmet Ali Yalcindag is CEO of Dogan Media Group and Suzan Sabanci Dincer is a board member of Sabanci Holding and managing director of Akbank. They speak frankly about European double standards, headscarves, military might and hot money.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109545

COVER: There Will Be Blood: Why The Right Hates McCain (U.S. and Latin America editions). Washington Correspondent Eve Conant, White House Correspondent Holly Bailey and Senior Editor Michael Hirsh report on the recent volleys between the warring conservative pundits over current GOP front runner John McCain. The latest Newsweek poll shows that 76 percent of all GOP voters and 69 percent of self-described conservatives say they would be satisfied with McCain as the GOP nominee, but listening to some outspoken conservative pundits, one would hardly think he is doing so well. Prominent hard-right pundits such as Ann Coulter and Rush Limbaugh have been ranting over McCain and his position in the polls, while other right-wing pundits have launched counterattacks in what has become a case of the party's base bringing chaos out of order.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109699

Newsweek Poll: Out Front: McCain romps while the Dems divide

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109495

The Theater of Big Change. Senior Editor and Columnist Jonathan Alter writes that both Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton will have to give a more concrete sense of how they would change Washington. "The first task is to clarify what changes we're talking about," Alter writes. "Iraq is a wash: both candidates would repair the breach with our allies. It's fixing health care and leading the country to make the sacrifices necessary to address global warming that would test which one is the real changemaker."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109590

The General's New Mission. National Security Correspondent John Barry, Special Correspondent Zahid Hussain and South Asia Bureau Chief Ron Moreau report that Pakistan's latest Army chief, Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, has been tasked with one of the toughest, most urgent military assignments in the world: reforming Pakistan's armed forces and rescuing the country itself from possible collapse. Unless he can do that, and quickly, the official outcome in next week's parliamentary elections could be beside the point. Everyone in Pakistan is bracing for the possibility of widespread violence.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109585

The President's Passion Play. Special Correspondent Tracy McNicoll reports that suddenly, faith, once an entirely private affair, has infused President Nicholas Sarkozy's political discourse, igniting a debate over church and state in strictly secular France. The revival has touched a nerve among a large swath of the French population, where there are many who view a rollback of France's strict separation of politics and religion as dangerous.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109547

This Watch Won't End. Beijing Bureau Chief Melinda Liu reports that Beijing is cleaning house for the Summer Olympics. The crackdown on dissent is growing, laying the roots of a new security regime. Security czar Ma Zhen- chuan has promised the extravaganza in August would provide "a sound and safe social environment." China's police are no novices at stifling domestic dissent. What's new is the focus on international threats, including potential troublemakers among the foreigners who've flocked to Beijing in recent years.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109541

Carnival Goes Political. Special Correspondent Mac Margolis reports that the floats in Brazil's Carnival-traditionally a raucous nationwide party -- now increasingly carry charged political messages. The high-mindedness is not necessarily born of a sincere commitment to set the world right. Mostly it's a way to pay the bills. Once bankrolled by the underworld, now the bureaucrats have caught on and are lavishing money on the parade in exchange for photo ops and a captive audience. And as officials enter the fray for audience share, causes -- whether combating poverty or plugging a forgotten hero -- have become the new commodities.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109542

Jewels in Their Crown. London Reporter William Underhill reports that Indian investors have pulled a post-colonial table turn, snapping up some of Britain's best brands. Flush with cash, corporate India is on an investment spree, and Britain, the old colonial master, last year became the favorite target. Indian investment in Britain has more than doubled in the past three years, surpassing the U.K.'s own investment into India. Indians are now the second-biggest investors in London -- home to 19 percent of the national economy -- topped only by acquisitive Americans.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109546

Deeper Than The Skin. Special Correspondent Michael Levitin reports that this year's Berlin International Film Festival -- Berlinale -- features a number of films that deal with aspects of Islam long considered taboo. Indian director Parvez Sharma's "A Jihad for Love," a documentary about gay and lesbian Muslims, is one of a dozen films that tackle complex and previously unexplored aspects of Muslim life.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109549

GLOBAL INVESTOR: Tough Times for Deep Pockets. Mohamed El-Erian, co-CEO and co-CIO of PIMCO, writes that "Until recently, private equity was on a major bull run." But the industry "has fallen on tougher times, with a recent spate of unraveling deals and languishing bank loans. Indeed, the worry is that private equity will become yet another falling domino in the global financial system."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109552

WORLD VIEW: The Fight for Iran's Freedom. Akbar Ganji, an Iranian journalist and dissident imprisoned in Iran from 2000 to 2006, writes that while it is easy to criticize U.S. policy toward the Middle East, "Iran's fundamentalist rulers often use such criticism as a way of disguising their own ineptitude and their responsibility for Iran's deplorable conditions- including the suppression of civil society ... Iranians need the support of the international community, including the American people."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109548

THE LAST WORD: Former United Nations secretary-general Kofi Annan. Annan speaks with Newsweek about his efforts to mediate in Kenya, where tribal killings that began after a disputed presidential election on Dec. 27 continue to rage. "We're now at the critical item of resolving the political crisis. The two sides have stated their cases. The government side feels they won [the election] fair and square. The opposition thinks the government stole it fair and square. My problem is to bridge that difference."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109550

SOURCE Newsweek

Credit: Newsweek

Subject: Politics; Presidential elections; Private equity; Religion; Political systems; Political alliances; Motion picture festivals; Freedom of speech; Church & state; Bank loans

Publication title: PR Newswire; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 10, 2008

Publisher: PR Newswire Association LLC

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 443781612

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/443781612?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright PR Newswire Association LLC Feb 10, 2008

Last updated: 2010-11-04

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 74 of 313

NEWSWEEK International Editions: Highlights and Exclusives, February 18, 2008

Publication info: U.S. Newswire ; Washington [Washington]10 Feb 2008: n/a.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

COVER: Turkey's Western Soul (Asia and Atlantic editions). Moscow Bureau Chief Owen Matthews and Special Correspondent Sami Kohen report that Turkey's Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his Islamist-rooted Justice and Development Party (AKP) is undeterred in keeping its 2002 promise to get Turkey into the European Union. Instead of slowing down the pace of change, the AKP has announced its biggest and boldest reform package yet -- a wholesale overhaul of the hard-wiring of the country's political system. Central to the new order is a redrawing of Turkey's 1981 Constitution designed to give more power to the people -- including direct presidential elections -- as well as introducing more freedom of speech and religion. In doing so, the AKP hopes to create a society that Europe simply cannot refuse.

The General's New Mission. National Security Correspondent John Barry, Special Correspondent Zahid Hussain and South Asia Bureau Chief Ron Moreau report that Pakistan's latest Army chief, Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, has been tasked with one of the toughest, most urgent military assignments in the world: reforming Pakistan's armed forces and rescuing the country itself from possible collapse. Unless he can do that, and quickly, the official outcome in next week's parliamentary elections could be beside the point. Everyone in Pakistan is bracing for the possibility of widespread violence.

This Watch Won't End. Beijing Bureau Chief Melinda Liu reports that Beijing is cleaning house for the Summer Olympics. The crackdown on dissent is growing, laying the roots of a new security regime. Security czar Ma Zhen- chuan has promised the extravaganza in August would provide "a sound and safe social environment." China's police are no novices at stifling domestic dissent. What's new is the focus on international threats, including potential troublemakers among the foreigners who've flocked to Beijing in recent years.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

To: POLITICAL EDITORS

Contact: LaVenia LaVelle, +1-212-445-4859, LaVenia.LaVelle@Newsweek.com, or Brenda Velez, +1-212-445-4078, Brenda.Velez@Newsweek.com, both of Newsweek

COVER: Turkey's Western Soul (Asia and Atlantic editions). Moscow Bureau Chief Owen Matthews and Special Correspondent Sami Kohen report that Turkey's Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdogan and his Islamist-rooted Justice and Development Party (AKP) is undeterred in keeping its 2002 promise to get Turkey into the European Union. Instead of slowing down the pace of change, the AKP has announced its biggest and boldest reform package yet -- a wholesale overhaul of the hard-wiring of the country's political system. Central to the new order is a redrawing of Turkey's 1981 Constitution designed to give more power to the people -- including direct presidential elections -- as well as introducing more freedom of speech and religion. In doing so, the AKP hopes to create a society that Europe simply cannot refuse.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109544

(Photo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080210/NYSU002)

A Good Anchor. Middle East Bureau Chief Christopher Dickey and Senior Editor Rana Foroohar talk with Turkey's most powerful business leaders -- representatives from the country's four largest industrial families -- about the future of their country as it moves toward historic changes. Ali Y. Koc is CEO of Koc Information Technology Group, Ferit Sahenk is chairman and CEO of the Dogus Group, Mehmet Ali Yalcindag is CEO of Dogan Media Group and Suzan Sabanci Dincer is a board member of Sabanci Holding and managing director of Akbank. They speak frankly about European double standards, headscarves, military might and hot money.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109545

COVER: There Will Be Blood: Why The Right Hates McCain (U.S. and Latin America editions). Washington Correspondent Eve Conant, White House Correspondent Holly Bailey and Senior Editor Michael Hirsh report on the recent volleys between the warring conservative pundits over current GOP front runner John McCain. The latest Newsweek poll shows that 76 percent of all GOP voters and 69 percent of self-described conservatives say they would be satisfied with McCain as the GOP nominee, but listening to some outspoken conservative pundits, one would hardly think he is doing so well. Prominent hard-right pundits such as Ann Coulter and Rush Limbaugh have been ranting over McCain and his position in the polls, while other right-wing pundits have launched counterattacks in what has become a case of the party's base bringing chaos out of order.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109699

Newsweek Poll: Out Front: McCain romps while the Dems divide

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109495

The Theater of Big Change. Senior Editor and Columnist Jonathan Alter writes that both Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton will have to give a more concrete sense of how they would change Washington. "The first task is to clarify what changes we're talking about," Alter writes. "Iraq is a wash: both candidates would repair the breach with our allies. It's fixing health care and leading the country to make the sacrifices necessary to address global warming that would test which one is the real changemaker."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109590

The General's New Mission. National Security Correspondent John Barry, Special Correspondent Zahid Hussain and South Asia Bureau Chief Ron Moreau report that Pakistan's latest Army chief, Ashfaq Parvez Kayani, has been tasked with one of the toughest, most urgent military assignments in the world: reforming Pakistan's armed forces and rescuing the country itself from possible collapse. Unless he can do that, and quickly, the official outcome in next week's parliamentary elections could be beside the point. Everyone in Pakistan is bracing for the possibility of widespread violence.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109585

The President's Passion Play. Special Correspondent Tracy McNicoll reports that suddenly, faith, once an entirely private affair, has infused President Nicholas Sarkozy's political discourse, igniting a debate over church and state in strictly secular France. The revival has touched a nerve among a large swath of the French population, where there are many who view a rollback of France's strict separation of politics and religion as dangerous.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109547

This Watch Won't End. Beijing Bureau Chief Melinda Liu reports that Beijing is cleaning house for the Summer Olympics. The crackdown on dissent is growing, laying the roots of a new security regime. Security czar Ma Zhen- chuan has promised the extravaganza in August would provide "a sound and safe social environment." China's police are no novices at stifling domestic dissent. What's new is the focus on international threats, including potential troublemakers among the foreigners who've flocked to Beijing in recent years.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109541

Carnival Goes Political. Special Correspondent Mac Margolis reports that the floats in Brazil's Carnival-traditionally a raucous nationwide party -- now increasingly carry charged political messages. The high-mindedness is not necessarily born of a sincere commitment to set the world right. Mostly it's a way to pay the bills. Once bankrolled by the underworld, now the bureaucrats have caught on and are lavishing money on the parade in exchange for photo ops and a captive audience. And as officials enter the fray for audience share, causes -- whether combating poverty or plugging a forgotten hero -- have become the new commodities.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109542

Jewels in Their Crown. London Reporter William Underhill reports that Indian investors have pulled a post-colonial table turn, snapping up some of Britain's best brands. Flush with cash, corporate India is on an investment spree, and Britain, the old colonial master, last year became the favorite target. Indian investment in Britain has more than doubled in the past three years, surpassing the U.K.'s own investment into India. Indians are now the second-biggest investors in London -- home to 19 percent of the national economy -- topped only by acquisitive Americans.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109546

Deeper Than The Skin. Special Correspondent Michael Levitin reports that this year's Berlin International Film Festival -- Berlinale -- features a number of films that deal with aspects of Islam long considered taboo. Indian director Parvez Sharma's "A Jihad for Love," a documentary about gay and lesbian Muslims, is one of a dozen films that tackle complex and previously unexplored aspects of Muslim life.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109549

GLOBAL INVESTOR: Tough Times for Deep Pockets. Mohamed El-Erian, co-CEO and co-CIO of PIMCO, writes that "Until recently, private equity was on a major bull run." But the industry "has fallen on tougher times, with a recent spate of unraveling deals and languishing bank loans. Indeed, the worry is that private equity will become yet another falling domino in the global financial system."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109552

WORLD VIEW: The Fight for Iran's Freedom. Akbar Ganji, an Iranian journalist and dissident imprisoned in Iran from 2000 to 2006, writes that while it is easy to criticize U.S. policy toward the Middle East, "Iran's fundamentalist rulers often use such criticism as a way of disguising their own ineptitude and their responsibility for Iran's deplorable conditions- including the suppression of civil society ... Iranians need the support of the international community, including the American people."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109548

THE LAST WORD: Former United Nations secretary-general Kofi Annan. Annan speaks with Newsweek about his efforts to mediate in Kenya, where tribal killings that began after a disputed presidential election on Dec. 27 continue to rage. "We're now at the critical item of resolving the political crisis. The two sides have stated their cases. The government side feels they won [the election] fair and square. The opposition thinks the government stole it fair and square. My problem is to bridge that difference."

http://www.newsweek.com/id/109550

SOURCE Newsweek

Company / organization: Name: Republican Party; NAICS: 813940

Publication title: U.S. Newswire; Washington

Pages: n/a

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 10, 2008

Publisher: U.S. Newswire

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: Public Administration, Political Science

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

ProQuest document ID: 451115172

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/451115172?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright (c) 2008 U.S. Newswire

Last updated: 2018-02-21

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 75 of 313

Robbers steal art worth millions

Author: Abegg, Ernst E

Publication info: The Charleston Gazette ; Charleston, W.V. [Charleston, W.V]12 Feb 2008: 2A.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

A reward of about $90,000 was offered for information leading to the recovery of the paintings - Claude Monet's "Poppy field at Vetheuil," Edgar Degas' "Ludovic Lepic and his Daughter," Vincent van Gogh's "Blooming Chestnut Branches," and Paul Cezanne's "Boy in the Red Waistcoat."

Last week, Swiss police reported that two Pablo Picasso paintings were stolen from an exhibition near Zurich. The two oil paintings, "Tete de cheval" ("Head of horse") and Verre et pichet ("Glass and pitcher"), were on loan from the Sprengel Museum in Hannover, Germany.

In 1994, seven Picasso paintings worth an estimated $44 million were stolen from a Zurich gallery. They were recovered in 2000. A Swiss man and two Italians were jailed for the theft. The stolen paintings included Picasso's "Seated Woman," and "Christ of Montmartre." The two pictures had been stolen from the gallery once before, in 1991.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

ZURICH, Switzerland - Three armed men in ski masks stole four paintings by Cezanne, Degas, van Gogh and Monet worth $163.2 million from a Zurich museum in one of Europe's largest art heists, police said Monday.

The robbers, who were still at large, stole the paintings Sunday from the E.G. Buehrle Collection, one of Europe's finest private museums for Impressionist and post-Impressionist art, police said.

It was the largest art robbery in Switzerland's history and one of the biggest ever in Europe, said Marco Cortesi, spokesman for the Zurich police. He compared it to the theft in 2004 of Edvard Munch's "The Scream" and "Madonna" from the Munch Museum in Norway.

The three masked men wearing dark clothing entered the museum a half-hour before closing Sunday, police said. While one of the men used a pistol to force museum personnel to the floor, the two others went into the exhibition hall and collected the four paintings.

One of the men spoke German with a Slavic accent, police said. They loaded the paintings into a white vehicle parked in front of the museum.

Police, asking for witnesses to come forward, said it was possible that the paintings were partly sticking out of the van as the robbers made their getaway.

A reward of about $90,000 was offered for information leading to the recovery of the paintings - Claude Monet's "Poppy field at Vetheuil," Edgar Degas' "Ludovic Lepic and his Daughter," Vincent van Gogh's "Blooming Chestnut Branches," and Paul Cezanne's "Boy in the Red Waistcoat."

The FBI estimates the market for stolen art at $6 billion annually, and Interpol has about 30,000 pieces of stolen art in its database. While only a fraction of the stolen art is ever found, the theft of iconic objects, especially by force, is rarer because of the intense police work that follows and because the works are so difficult to sell.

Buehrle, a German-born industrialist who provided arms to the Third Reich during World War II, amassed one of Europe's greatest private collections in the aftermath of the war. He also owned at least 13 works of art at the war's end that were included on British specialist Douglas Cooper's "looted art list," which was used to recover pieces stolen from Jews by the Nazis.

The museum is housed in a villa adjoining Buehrle's former home, which he used to store part of his collection before his death in 1956.

Lukas Gloor, the museum's director, said the robbers stole four of the collection's most important paintings. But, he said, they appeared to have taken the first four they came to, leaving even more valuable paintings hanging in the same room.

The museum also owns Auguste Renoir's "Little Irene" and Edgar Degas' "Little Dancer."

"We are happy that no employees or visitors were hurt," Gloor said.

The stolen paintings were hung behind glass, and a security alarm went off as soon as they were touched, Gloor said at a news conference.

Three other versions of the Cezanne painting - perhaps the most famous of those stolen - exist in museums in the United States.

Switzerland boasts a large number of outstanding art collections, some of which have been hit by thefts and robberies over the years.

Last week, Swiss police reported that two Pablo Picasso paintings were stolen from an exhibition near Zurich. The two oil paintings, "Tete de cheval" ("Head of horse") and Verre et pichet ("Glass and pitcher"), were on loan from the Sprengel Museum in Hannover, Germany.

Zurich police were pursuing the possibility that the Picasso theft was connected with the robbery, and are in contact with investigators in that case to see if there are any links, Cortesi said.

At the end of the 1980s, three armed men made off with 21 Renaissance paintings worth hundreds of millions of dollars from a Zurich art gallery. Stolen works included some by Jan Mertens the younger, Jan Steen, Willem van Aelst and Dirk Hals. The case was made public in 1989 when FBI agents in New York arrested two Belgians and recovered stolen paintings.

In 1994, seven Picasso paintings worth an estimated $44 million were stolen from a Zurich gallery. They were recovered in 2000. A Swiss man and two Italians were jailed for the theft. The stolen paintings included Picasso's "Seated Woman," and "Christ of Montmartre." The two pictures had been stolen from the gallery once before, in 1991.

On the Net:

E.G. Buehrle Collection: www.buehrle.ch/?langen

Other recent heists

* December 2007: Picasso painting valued at about $50 million, along with one by Brazilian artist Candido Portinari valued at $5 million to $6 million, are stolen from the Sao Paulo Museum of Art in Brazil, by three burglars using a crowbar and a car jack. The paintings were later found.

* February 2007: Two Picasso paintings, worth nearly $66 million, and a drawing are stolen from the Paris home of the artist's granddaughter in an overnight heist. Police later recovered the art when the thieves tried to sell it.

* February 2006: Around 300 museum-grade artifacts worth an estimated $142 million, including paintings, clocks and silver, are stolen from a 17th century manor house at Ramsbury in southern England, the largest property theft in British history.

* February 2006: Four works of art and other objects, including paintings by Matisse, Picasso, Monet and Dali, are stolen from the Museu Chacara do Ceu in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, by four armed men during a Carnival parade. Local media estimated the paint

Credit: The Associated Press

People: Monet, Claude Degas, Edgar Cezanne, Paul Gloor, Lukas Picasso, Pablo

Publication title: The Charleston Gazette; Charleston, W.V.

Pages: 2A

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 12, 2008

Section: News

Publisher: Charleston Newspapers

Place of publication: Charleston, W.V.

Country of publication: United States, Charleston, W.V.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: NEWSPAPER

ProQuest document ID: 331635602

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/331635602?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Charleston Newspapers Feb 12, 2008

Last updated: 2017-11-05

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 76 of 313

Q4 2007 Acergy S.A. Earnings Conference Call - Final

Publication info: Fair Disclosure Wire ; Linthicum [Linthicum]13 Feb 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

OPERATOR: Thank you for standing by, and welcome to the Acergy S.A. fourth quarter and full year results conference call. At this time, all participants are in listen-only mode. There will be a presentation, followed by a question and answer session, at which time, if you wish to ask a question, you'll need to press *1 on your telephone.

I must advise you that this conference is being recorded today, Wednesday, the 13th of February, 2008. I would now like to hand the conference over to our first speaker today, Karen Menzel. Please go ahead.

KAREN MENZEL, IR, ACERGY S.A.: Thank you, and good afternoon. Joining us on the line today are Tom Ehret, our Chief Executive Officer, and Stuart Jackson, our Chief Financial Officer. Our fourth quarter and full year earnings release can be found on our website, along with the presentation slides we will be using during this call.

Before we start the presentation, may I remind you that certain statements made in the course of this conference call which express the Company's intentions, beliefs and expectations are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities & Exchange Act of 1934. Actual future results and trends could differ materially from those which are in such statements due to various factors. Details of these can be obtained from time to time in the Company's SEC filings, including the Company's 20-F filing for 2006. Copies of these filings may be obtained either from our website, or from the SEC.

May I also draw your attention to the more detailed disclosure on forward-looking statements that appear in today's press release.

This call is scheduled to run for one hour. And as we expect there to be a number of questions, we would, as usual, ask you to limit yourself to one question, and if time allows, we will happily come back to you for further questions.

So with that, over to Tom.

TOM EHRET, CEO, ACERGY S.A.: Thank you, Karen, and good afternoon, everyone.

First of all, I'd like to say that I'm pleased to be able to report another year of significant progress. As I say in our earnings announcement, it has been a year of real achievements, because we have not only delivered strong growth, but also completed vital strategic changes within the business. Acergy not only has the best people and the right assets, but it is also structured to make the most of the market growth in its segment.

The company is equipped for the growth opportunities for 2010 and beyond. Of course, we have also faced two problematic challenges this year--the Mexilhao Trunkline project, and the growth in our tax charge.

I wish to say at the outset that although these factors have painted an otherwise outstanding financial performance, both issues have been and are being dealt with effectively. Stuart and I will discuss these in detail on the call, but first, let me look at the highlights of the year.

First, Acergy has again delivered significant growth of 25%, bringing the compound annual growth rate for the period between 2004 and 2007 to 34%.

Second, the gross profit, which is the best way to measure how we're doing operationally, increased 26%, and EBITDA grew 22%, the latter falling short of our objective due to the impact of the downgrade of the Mexilhao Trunkline project, without which these would have been increases by 33% and 30% respectively.

It is clearly demonstrating that we are successfully executing larger and more complex projects, which is, of course, a trend we see continuing in the business.

During 2007, we also have returned $184 million to shareholders through dividends and share buybacks, whilst continuing to invest into our future.

In a tight market, we have again met our staffing objectives, recruiting another net 1,000 people, which combined with our ambitious and comprehensive learning and development program, is the key to Acergy's future. I cannot overemphasize that.

Further, we have taken delivery of three new assets during 2007. There were delays, yes, and in fact, two more assets which were planned for 2007 have joined the fleet since year end, bringing the total addition to five as initially planned. I'm pleased to tell that the crewing, the technical integration, and the operational performance of these assets have been well in line or above expectations in some cases.

Finally, the year-end order book reached $3.2 billion. Since then, we have booked a further $1 billion in contract awards, which demonstrates why, in a business such as ours, where we're managing multi-year contracts, the granularity of the business flow renders quarterly cutoff numbers somewhat questionable.

Now, Acergy may have suffered a couple of bumps in 2007, but we have made major progress overall. Most vitally, we are well positioned at a time when the market fundamentals remain, really, as strong as ever.

And on that, I will hand over to Stuart Jackson, who will take you through the numbers.

STUART JACKSON, CFO, ACERGY S.A.: Thank you, Tom. If I call your attention to our presentation, and slide number four, which is the financial highlights. I'll deal firstly with the full year numbers, and then the quarterly numbers after that.

In relation to our revenue for full year 2007, we're reporting a revenue of $2,663 million, an increase of 25%. The gross in that revenue is coming from the AfMed region, which is up 34%, with Greater Plutonio's offshore execution being undertaken through 2007, as well as very active activity associated with Moho, SOLAMET, and EPC2B.

In the South American region, we saw a significant increase in our revenue levels, with PRA-1 going through substantial execution through 2007, and the Mexilhao and Frade contracts commencing during 2007. In addition, we now have three vessels on long-term service arrangements with Petrobras in the South American region.

The NEC region--Northern Europe and Canada--had more modest growth, at 10%. The major projects undertaken in 2007 with Tyrihans and the CNR frame agreement had very high levels of activity.

In the Asia and Middle East region, we saw a reduction in our revenue levels by 21%, and this is primarily associated with the sale of our shallow water and diving assets, which occurred earlier in 2007.

In relation to our adjusted EBITDA, for the year, the number was $438 million of EBITDA, an increase of 22%, as Tom had mentioned. This provides us with an EBITDA margin for the year of 16.5%, compared to 16.9% for 2006. In arriving at the EBITDA level, I'd highlight that our gross margin, over the year, is unchanged, at approximately 20%.

Our non-consolidated joint ventures have decreased in terms of their contribution, from $41 million to $31 million, arising through lower contribution from the Seaway Heavy Lifting joint venture, where the Stanislav Yudin was in dry dock during the mid part of the year, and also work for our partner at low margins in the latter part of the year. In addition, the SapuraAcergy joint venture was loss making, which included $6 million in relation to the mark to market interest hedging swap.

Our SG&A levels for the year were up from $184 million to $228 million, about 8.6% of revenue compared to 2006 at 8.7%, that brought it in line with the previous year.

Our one-off charges in 2007 were approximately $15 million, principally relating to tax audits, our FIN 48 style tax review, our IFRS implementation project as we transfer to IFRS effective 1st of December, 2007, and investment in our infrastructure in terms of IT, all of which are reflected in the SG&A line for 2007.

As Tom has mentioned, Mexilhao has had a very significant effect on our earnings for this year. Our adjusted EBITDA, excluding impact of Mexilhao, will be 17.5% instead of the 16.5% reported.

Moving, then, to the net operating income line of $357 million, up 25%. Our interest charges reflect lower cash balances in the year, but also, we have provided for some late penalty interest on some of our tax provisions, and that's reflected in the interest line.

In addition, we have an FX loss of $10 million in the year, compared to a small gain in 2006. This is principally related to the translation losses on inter-company balances in non-dollar functional entities.

Our taxation for the year is a charge of $200 million, and I will come back in some detail in a couple of slides' time. But just to report here, that includes provisions related to the audit of $49 million on the tax line, and $13 million in the interest and operating expense line, and our underlying rate for the year of 43%.

Therefore, our net income for the year, including all operations including discontinued, is $154 million, compared to $237 million for 2006. Our EPS is at $0.77 per share, down from $1.18 per share in 2006. That's on a weighted average shares in issue of 213.3 million. And on a fully diluted basis, the EPS is calculated excluding interest charges on convertibles, which is $11 million of charge.

Turning, then, to the quarterly numbers. Quarterly revenue at $754 million is an increase of 23%. The drivers are similar to what we've seen in terms of the year, for the quarter. The offshore execution in Greater Plutonio, higher activities on Mondo, Moho and SONAMET giving us 32% increase in revenues associated with AfMed. And our PRA-1 moving to completion in (inaudible), and the three vessels on a high level utilization, together with Frade and Mexilhao commencing their operations in the South American region.

In Northern Europe and Canada, we were down 20% in terms of our revenue levels. This is a result of (inaudible) running in Q4 2006 but not being replaced in Q4 of 2007, so lower utilization of the Acergy Piper. In addition, the Eagle, the Discovery, and the Polar Queen were working in the Northern Europe and Canada region in Q4 2006, but not in Q4 2007.

Our Asia/Middle East region was up 24%, with the main activity in that region during the quarter being execution on the Vincent project.

At the EBITDA level for the quarter, they were at $121 million, up 37% on the same quarter for 2006. This reflects an EBITDA margin for this quarter as 16%, against 14.4% a year ago.

Our gross margin during the quarter was up from 19.5% a year ago, to 20.9%, reflecting the improved performance in terms of execution of our projects.

Our SG&A is up from $52 million to $67 million, again reflecting some of the one-off charges associated with tax audits, the FIN 48 review, IFRS, and our IT infrastructure.

And the effect of Mexilhao was approximately 3.7%, in terms of EBITDA for the quarter.

The net operating income level for the quarter, we were at $94 million, up 29%. And again, our interest charge, you can see here, very--impact in terms of not only lower cash balances, but the provision we've made in terms of late penalty interest associated with the tax audit.

And again, the FX impact of $6 million loss against $2 million gain is the translation losses on inter-company balances in non-dollar functional entities.

Our tax provision of $102 million for the quarter reflects the provisions of $49 million on the tax audits, and the $13 million associated interest and operating costs.

For the quarter, this year, we were $19 million loss as a result of the provisions taken in relation to tax, and that was translated in terms of EPS of $0.10 per share, compared to $0.33 per share for the same quarter last year. There was no [tier] in terms of calculation of the EPS. There was a lower level of weighted average shares outstanding at the end of Q4 '07, as used because there was a loss in this quarter, and therefore, we can't include the convertible and the other options, as converted on a fully diluted basis.

I turn, then, to slide number six, which is the tax slide. First, in terms of some background associated with this. Acergy's ownership structure has changed materially in 2005, when we became 100% free [float] company. Now, the intervening period has been characterized by substantial growth with more geographic diversity and significant asset investments during that time. The size and complexity of our projects, together with their multi-year duration, has become a feature of our business. In short, we've become a very different business, and outgrown the structure we had some years ago, and that is now being revised.

Turning, then, to the tax numbers, $200 million is the tax charge for the full year. There are really two elements to this tax charge. Firstly, ongoing tax audits and inquiries, particularly in France and the Netherlands, together with a FIN 48 style review of all uncertain tax provisions around the group, is driving what we're doing in terms of the provisions coming through in this quarter.

The FIN 48 style review is a review, as required for U.S. filers under U.S. GAAP. It won't apply to Acergy going forward, but Acergy has decided to adopt this review in 2007, to ensure that we have a full review of all our uncertain tax provisions. The reason it doesn't apply to us going forward is that we changed to IFRS.

Taking both these tax audit issues and the FIN 48 style review into account, the combined revision of estimates we have on our tax line is $49 million, plus some impacts associated with interest and operating expenses amounting to $13 million.

The second part attached to our $200 million tax charge for the year is our underlying effective rate of tax, which is a direct (inaudible) level of 43% reported for 2007. This is arising through ineffective allocation of costs and profits between African and French entities, leading to higher withholding tax payments, unrelieved against French taxes, which are--which in themselves are at marginally higher rates, at 35%, compared to 28% in many other EU jurisdictions.

Turning, then, to the tax charge for the quarter of $102 million. As the commencement of the French tax reassessment, and the conclusion of the FIN 48 style review, occurred just after the year-end, in December and January respectively, which is the reason we're able to make these provisions now.

Improved results from AfMed in Q4 of 2007 came through, but at very high effective rates of tax. Now, we had a decline in results from other regions, which normally have a lower rate of tax. The combination of those two events occurring in Q4 means that we have a very high effective rate of tax for the quarter.

In terms of changing the position going forward, we have already, in early 2007, made personnel changes associated with the management tax activities, and invested in tax resources around the group.

We have a number of short-term changes, which are being implemented to firm our contracting approvals and our individual entity reviews, as opposed to our project reviews. And the FIN 48 style tax review that I mentioned has now been completed, in relation to all uncertain tax provisions around the group. I'd say that both Pazflor and Block 15, which are the two material projects which have been awarded recently, have both been reviewed in this context.

We also have a medium-term project to simplify and align our corporate and operating structures, to deliver competitive effective tax rates during 2009.

In relation to guidance (technical difficulty, interference in audio) tax, as I mentioned, our 43% for 2007 is unacceptable. The target for 2009 is comparable to our peers, who are currently enjoying tax levels of 30% to 33%. And our guidance for 2008, at 35%, remains unchanged.

Turning now to slide six, which is the cash flow highlights. Our net income of $154 million is adjusted for non-cash items and changes in working capital, to arrive at net cash from operations at $249 million.

In relation to investing activities during the year, we have invested $246 million in capital expenditure, primarily in relation to delivering the Polar Queen and Toisa Proteus, (inaudible) work on the Polaris (inaudible), and delivery of the Pertinacea.

We received $35 million associated with the sale of shallow water and diving businesses in Asia and Middle East region, and we've invested $19 million net in terms of our investment in joint ventures, primarily in relation to Seaway Heavy Lifting, but we funded our equity portion of the financing associated with the [S5000 new build]. These investing activities provide a net consumption of cash of $230 million.

On the financing side, we've returned $147 million to shareholders through share buybacks, and $37 million through the payment of 2006 dividends at $0.20 per share. Now, adjusting for the effect of FX rate on the cash positions we have around the group when they're translated back to dollars, the change in cash position is an outflow of $135 million for the full year of 2007, reflected in the CapEx and shareholder returns, and an inflow of $65 million in Q4 2007, reflecting operating income flows.

In relation to shareholder returns, on slide seven, I mentioned we returned $147 million through share buybacks during the year, which is a total of $164 million since we started the program in late 2006. And during that time, we repurchased 9 million shares. We're currently holding 6.9 million shares, which is approximately 3.6% of the outstanding shares, having utilized shares for vested and exercised stock options. Now, the program continues in terms of share buybacks, within the limit of $300 million, which was announced in late 2006.

On the dividend side, for 2006, we have $0.20 per share. We're proposing to the AGM a 5% increase in that level, to $0.21 per share, for 2007. And the company continues to focus on returning surplus cash to shareholders.

Finally, in relation to the balance sheet on slide eight. On the asset side first, I've explained the change in terms of cash, $135 million, giving us a cash balance of $583 million. Our other current assets are up $182 million for $851 million, reflecting the increase in billed and unbilled trade receivables resulting from the increased trading activity.

Our fixed assets at $788 million reflects our capital expenditure program running ahead of the depreciation and amortization level. And our non-current assets are increased $39 million to $199 million, reflecting our increased investment in joint venture, which is principally SHL and NKT project profits, as well as cash investments in SapuraAcergy and SHL.

On the liability side of the balance sheet, our other current liabilities are at $1,079 million, up $161 million. This reflects an increase in the income tax and payroll payables, and the decrease in our advance revenues from clients, from $235 million a year ago, to $198 million at the end of 2007.

Our gross debt is unchanged, at $509 million, reflecting the $500 million convertible and $9 million of debt in the SONAMET joint venture.

Our other non-current liabilities are $105 million, leading to our shareholders' equity at $729 million, up $29 million, reflecting the net income of $154 million, offset by the share buybacks, the dividends, and other equity changes.

And with that, I'll hand it back to Tom for the recent performance review.

TOM EHRET: Thanks, Stuart. I will rattle through this quickly, since there was a lot in Stuart's presentation.

Starting with the largest region, Africa and the Med. As you can see from the slide, on slide nine, a very successful year for AfMed in terms of execution, successful delivery in particular of Greater Plutonio, to date Acergy's largest single project ever performed. All other major projects in West Africa, such as Kizomba C--Mondo, Moho Bilondo, are progressing well.

In addition to that, we were awarded the first two projects which were part of this wave of large projects in deepwater West Africa that had been delayed for so long, namely, Block 15 and a share of Pazflor, together with Technip. So altogether, a very successful year for AfMed.

Turning to Northern Europe and Canada, a slightly more contrasted picture there, with a relatively disappointing fourth quarter, which is easily explained through the impact of Mexilhao. Mexilhao is a joint project between the Brazil and North Sea regions, and therefore, the NEC region has taken half of the loss in its Q4 numbers.

Other than that, NEC has successfully completed a number of challenging technical projects (technical difficulty, interference in audio), but probably one of the most complex full-on projects ever performed. In fact, this one came in ahead of schedule as well. All the assets which are ascribed to the region have been deployed very constantly and fully. Unfortunately, we had, to some degree, a capped growth potential in that region, and to the (technical difficulty, interference in audio) lack of tonnage in the region.

Moving on. Basically, North America and Mexico is still immaterial in terms of a region per se, because as planned, and as indicated earlier, their focus has been on supporting other regions, in particular, South America, with engineering and project management activities related to large [lump sum] projects. And that is why there is hardly any top line revenue speaking of.

However, the good news, in addition to the fact that they have done a good job in supporting other regions, is that they have been awarded, shortly after year end, the first domestic project for a while, and that happens to be in ultra deepwater Gulf of Mexico, which is really where we want to be, after having sold our Continental Shelf business about two years ago. This is a contract called Perdido, which wasn't announced separately, because it's just slightly under the $50 million mark, where it's in 9,000 feet of water. And that bodes well for the future of this region, which we see really growing in deepwater, as from 2010 on.

Moving to South America. Clearly, a very significantly higher activity level, as Stuart has explained. Of course, the results are impacted by the loss on the Mexilhao Trunkline project. I'd like to say a couple of words here about Mexilhao, actually.

This is a large project with a huge amount of pass-through elements, performed in Brazil by a combined team involving the North Sea region and the Brazil region. Transitioning between the North Sea region and the Brazil region has been slower than desirable, which has resulted in two significant local subcontracts being negotiated under difficult circumstances, namely, with a single source.

Now, vigorous remedial actions were taken immediately at the time. The project director was removed. He was replaced with one of the group's most senior operations managers, who used to run the North Sea until then. And a steering committee involving the Chief Operating Officer as well as the two regional Vice Presidents, has been set up to review the progress of this work, on site, every month.

Moving on to--sorry. I almost forgot to mention the fact that we have, now, three ships on long-term charter to Petrobras, the [Condor], the Pertinacea, and the Harrier. The Harrier did experience some thruster--major thruster problems in the early part of the year, which unfortunately, has impacted the overall utilization of that fleet. But I'm glad to say that the Pertinacea, once taken on contract by Petrobras in Q2, has had 100% utilization. And the Condor, too, has close to 100% utilization. So this is providing a very good, sort of baseline activity for this region.

The--on the (inaudible) side of things, the PRA-1 contract was nearing completion at year-end, whilst the larger Frade contract has actually only just started.

Moving to the Asia and Middle East region, slide 13. What we see is that although revenue has decreased, which as Stuart has explained is due to the sale of our shallow water and diving business, in fact which has generated a $12 million gain, net gain on asset sales, but of course, there's a $13 million recurring top line revenue which has disappeared at the same time.

The SURF projects which we have won--and we have won quite a few, between the latter part of '06 and '07--are at very early stages of revenue recognition. In fact, only one, the Vincent project, has seen significant progress during 2007. All the others are going to come through in 2008.

As a result of this, we are experiencing a significant under-recovery of SG&A costs, because the region is fully equipped in terms of people, and systems, and so on, to be a $300 million region. And that is--we're not there yet.

In addition to that, the SapuraAcergy joint venture was also loss making for the simple reason that it's a single ship joint venture, fully equipped with 130 people, and no ship until year-end, since the delivery of that ship was delayed.

I have say, financially, this region is suffering from a combination of issues. No [IMR], or (inaudible) regular revenues, a buildup of costs and infrastructure to become a major region, all the new SURF work, which has been won, at early stages and therefore not contributing. So (technical difficulty, interference in audio), (inaudible), all are going to be executed mostly in 2008. Pluto, which we announced today, would be executed mostly in 2009 and 2010.

So I think it is perhaps an awkward point in time for that region, whilst overall, we believe our plan is working, and that the great--the future and potential is great going forward.

Moving on to slide 14, our traditional major project progression chart. As you can see, there is a good mix of well-advanced projects and young, quote/unquote, projects on there. There's nine projects--I think the number steadily increases, quarter after quarter, which is a further indication that the size of our projects is increasing--in fact, probably increased by about 35% between 2005 and 2007.

Basically, where the Plutonio has gone from the charts, as we have said, and Pluto is not on it yet, Deep Panuke is not on it yet, and Pazflor is not on it yet. So that chart will obviously get a little longer as we go forward, again illustrating our success in the marketplace.

Slide 15, backlog analysis, just under $3.2 billion at year end, versus $2.5 billion a year ago. So good progression in the backlog. Seventy percent of that backlog is for execution in 2008, and 21% in 2009. But I would remind everyone that our business is lumpy--that the Pazflors, the Plutos, the Deep Panukes, etc., which have come in since year-end, have a major impact, of course, on 2009 and beyond. And therefore, one shouldn't be unduly concerned about the 21% figure for 2009.

So I'm trying to kind of wrap this up. I would sort of try and have a quick review of the outlook.

Well, as you will have seen from our statement, we take a strongly optimistic view. The year has started well. We already had nearly three quarters of our 2008 revenue in hand at year-end, and have enjoyed excellent deals since year-end with Pazflor, Panuke, Pluto, and Perdido.

As I speak, we are actively involved in tendering on a number of exciting contracts. I think the number for West Africa alone is standing at about [10 billion]. Our recent success in completing some of the very largest and most complex projects that the industry has actually seen is an invaluable reputational asset, and increasingly saw as the size and complexity of projects increases. We believe it stands us in good stead, as clients consider their future contract awards.

It is the Board's view that our commercial progress, and our optimism for the future, must be translated into returns for our shareholders. To that end, we have recommended a 5% dividend increase, and the continuation of the share buyback program.

Finally, the market fundamentals remain as strong as ever, with excellent prospects across all regions. In fact, oil and gas supply the [man equation] going forward, the significant exploration efforts which will result from the influx of new rigs in the next couple of years, the demanding nature of development all combine to make Acergy's future a very bright one.

With that, I think we should be happy to take your questions.

OPERATOR: We will now begin the question and answer session. (Operator instructions)

Your first question comes from Christyan Malek from Deutsche Bank. Please ask your question.

CHRISTYAN MALEK, ANALYST, DEUTSCHE BANK: Hi, good afternoon, gentlemen. Just one question, if I may. Could you just walk me through, perhaps, how exactly is it that you execute with the risks that you incurred in South America, are not systemic across the business, and that--what I'm trying to say is, will this happen again?

TOM EHRET: The answer to that, clearly, is no. I have to explain that that particular job we do in South America is a trunkline, the installation of large diameter, long length pipeline. This is not our main area of focus, which is the SURF business.

In addition to that, because it isn't our widest spread of activity and expertise, we've concentrated our track record and our know-how in the North Sea and Med, that have done very well with this activity in '05 and '06.

But to transition an asset like this, with 500 people on board, needing between four and eight tugs to move around, and needing thousands of pipe delivered to it regularly, in an overseas country where potentially some of the specificities of the local conditions are not known by the management team that run the project, has been a relatively high risk endeavor. And basically, it has gone badly, initially, and we've had to make adjustments for it to be corrected.

It is (technical difficulty, interference in audio) systemic in the sense that very rarely would we endeavor to do something that massive in terms of transitioning from one region to another with a piece of equipment, and of activity that is not our mainstay activity.

I think that's the main reason why I consider this to be totally non-systemic. It has to be said, also, that this project, which was commenced by our client against a rather tight schedule, is currently still depending on some permits that our client has not yet obtained, and accordingly, we are holding discussions with our client with a view to re-baselining the project going forward.

CHRISTYAN MALEK: Right, but you mentioned one of your project managers being removed off the project. I mean, where--how does that sit, in terms of the management of the Board? When did you realize you should need to remove them, what--could that occur again, in the sense that lower tier management aren't accountable as they should be on other projects. I mean, just--the cycle appears again, but for a different reason.

TOM EHRET: Well, it is--as I said, it's a different nature of projects to our other projects. It's different in the nature of what it does, it's a technical content, and the asset it uses, it is different. So in that sense, it shouldn't be--there shouldn't be a parallel drawn with other projects.

The--because the adverse variance came from two subcontracts placed locally, the issue arose almost instantaneously once we were sitting in front of a single source supplier that named his price. So we had to acknowledge these effects immediately, and the project director was removed, I think, less than two months after the project has started.

So as far as I'm concerned, we took initially the action which needed to be taken, we took them quickly, and we took the right ones. Again, I do not see any reason to draw parallels with other projects.

CHRISTYAN MALEK: All right. Thank you, gentlemen.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from Rune Juliussen, from Pareto. Please ask your question.

RUNE JULIUSSEN, ANALYST, PARETO SECURITIES: Thank you, and good afternoon, gentlemen, and Karen. Two quick questions. What's the chance of seeing any sort of recovery from Petrobras or Mexilhao later this year? Second question is, are you immediately starting your buyback program now, after being in--call it a blackout period for buying back shares from late November?

TOM EHRET: Okay, on the first question. Obviously, I don't want to be drawn too far, because discussions are ongoing with Petrobras. It is our objective to go--to recover the position in 2008. And it's part of management's objectives, and--yes, that's what I would say.

And as regard to share buybacks, I'll let Stuart answer.

STUART JACKSON: In relation to the share buybacks, we haven't suspended them, so it's just a continuation of the program. You're right in saying that after these results, we come out of an insider period, which allows the company therefore to put in place instructions around buybacks again.

RUNE JULIUSSEN: And how much of the capital can you purchase back in your current authorization?

STUART JACKSON: Well, I mentioned, we announced at the end of 2006 $300 million in terms of buybacks, and we have repurchased $164 million so far. The overall cap, we have--from the shareholders, would be 10% of the equity, but that's capped by a dollar number (inaudible).

RUNE JULIUSSEN: Perfect. Thanks, guys.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from Alejandro Demichelis from Merrill Lynch. Please ask your question.

ALEJANDRO DEMICHELIS, ANALYST, MERRILL LYNCH: Yes, good afternoon, gentlemen. Three questions, if I may. You have been very good at telling us what was the impact of Mexilhao there, but trying to adjust for that, we still see Brazil having a much lower margin than the rest of the other regions. Maybe you can tell us what we should be expecting from Brazil going forward, apart from what we should discuss on the recovery of the losses there.

Second point is, regarding your margin guidance that you gave us late last year, is that based on the exclusion of the Mexilhao effect, or is that just the numbers that we saw?

And the last thing would be, what we should expect in terms of the JV contributions.

TOM EHRET: Right. Let's start with the JV contributions. Stuart?

STUART JACKSON: In terms of JV contributions for 2008, we believe we'll get improved contribution from the results we have for 2007, which is $31 million. We may have an opportunity of going up to the 2006 levels, which is about $40 million, but we haven't got a specific number in terms of guidance, yet. It will be within that range.

ALEJANDRO DEMICHELIS: Okay.

TOM EHRET: Then the second question was about the underlying margin in Brazil, excluding Mexilhao. You're right, I mean, the margin level, if you exclude Mexilhao, it's still disappointing in the SAM region, 2007. There's no question about that.

And that is due to a similar phenomenon than what I have described for A&E. I mean, we had to build up that region for $300 million or more turnover from where it was a couple of years ago, $50 million. So we have a substantial amount of fixed costs to absorb, which is a--are only going to be absorbed once the volume is flowing through the P&L.

Yet, the Frade project, for example, has also only just started, whereas the PRA-1 contract, which is smaller than Frade, whilst having been well advanced in 2007, has suffered from a mediocre performance--not very bad, but mediocre performance, which possibly we can see corrected by the time the job is finished and the variation orders and everything has been discussed.

So all together, you have a structure which has increased in cost. We have no contribution from the largest--the big project, namely Frade. We have a sort of mediocre contribution from the PRA-1 contract. And of course, a negative contribution from Mexilhao.

So I wouldn't draw more conclusions than that. We also have renewed the Harrier contract towards the end of 2007, at a rate substantially higher than what it was before. That should see a significant improvement going forward.

And obviously, Frade should deliver in 2008, because it's going to be executed during 2008, and it's going to occupy the Polar Queen pretty much for the full year.

I think that is really the comments I can make on SAM, so SAM should recover to a position which is satisfactory.

STUART JACKSON: Maybe one thing I should add, Tom. The Frade, the PRA-1 and the Mexilhao contracts all run as cross-regional projects. And as a consequence, the revenue associated with these projects sits within the South American region, but the profits associated with the projects are split between the regions, South American region and the other regions it works with. So as a consequence, you will see lower margins relative to revenue in this region.

ALEJANDRO DEMICHELIS: Okay.

TOM EHRET: And then you had another question on margin--

ALEJANDRO DEMICHELIS: Yes, on the guidance.

TOM EHRET: You mean for the full year?

ALEJANDRO DEMICHELIS: Yes. Please.

TOM EHRET: 2008? We are not changing our guidance. And we--our guidance was fully inclusive of the effects of Mexilhao, when we gave it. So we took the loss in Q4, and Mexilhao is in our numbers for 2008 at zero margin.

ALEJANDRO DEMICHELIS: Okay, so then the 200 basis points you mentioned last time would be based on the inclusion of the Mexilhao losses.

TOM EHRET: Absolutely.

ALEJANDRO DEMICHELIS: Okay.

TOM EHRET: I mentioned 100 to 200 basis points.

ALEJANDRO DEMICHELIS: Okay.

TOM EHRET: And I confirmed, yes, it was after having considered the effect of Mexilhao.

ALEJANDRO DEMICHELIS: Fantastic. Thank you very much.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from the line of Mick Pickup from Lehman Brothers. Please ask your question.

MICK PICKUP, ANALYST, LEHMAN BROTHERS: Yes, just a couple of clarifications first, to Stuart, just on the tax issue. I believe you have tax audits going on in four regions, and you seem to have completed two. So does your FIN 48 style review encompass the other two? And it is definitely, just back to come on that, I thought your 100 to 200 basis points was on the improvement on a 16.8% type guidance, and not improved until 16.8% (inaudible) Mexilhao guidance.

TOM EHRET: Sorry, you've got me confused here. I'll take that question first.

When we were--the last call, the pre-close guidance call, we were looking at a 2007 number of 16.9% or thereabouts.

MICK PICKUP: Yes.

TOM EHRET: Okay? And when pressed, and under duress, I tried to qualify our guidance, which was moderate growth over that, in saying moderate growth means somewhere in the region of 100 to 200 basis points.

MICK PICKUP: Okay.

TOM EHRET: Okay? I continue to believe that moderate growth means 100 to 200 basis points. Now, we had applied the 16.5% or the 16.9%--I guess, is that your question?

MICK PICKUP: Yes, exactly.

TOM EHRET: Well, I don't want to answer that question, because I think it's a little early for me to answer it. I only give an indication there, or a band, rather than sort of trying to be pinned down to an exact number. I mean, there are some estimates out there--none of them have shocked me so far. So I think I'll leave it at that for the moment. It's early in the year.

MICK PICKUP: Okay.

STUART JACKSON: And coming back to your tax questions, as we highlighted in terms of the provision we've taken here, the situation regarding both France and the Netherlands, I'll just correct you in saying that they haven't been concluded. They have concluded in terms of what we need to provide, the probable outcome of those audits, but those audits are still ongoing.

In relation to the other two areas we've highlighted before, which is the U.S. and the U.K., in the U.S., we believe the level of provision we have to make doesn't meet the probable criteria, and therefore, we haven't included any for that. And the same applies to the U.K., where--you'll recall, it was challenged, an inquiry undertaken by the U.K. revenue in relation to the application of U.K. tonnage tax, a certain asset owning companies.

That has progressed in terms of the HMRC, Her Majesty's Revenue and Customs, issuing a consultation document in relation to new legislation to be bought in. That came out about a week or so ago, and so we're evaluating the impacts of that. So we don't believe we have to provide anything at present in relation to the impacts of that.

And then the FIN 48 review just encompasses all other jurisdictions around the globe that we have involvement with. We've done a review of all those uncertain tax positions, and taken a provision where appropriate, based upon a probable outcome.

MICK PICKUP: Okay. Thanks a lot.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from Richard Jansen from ABG. Please ask your question.

RICHARD JANSEN, ANALYST, ABG: Guys, good afternoon. Three quick questions. A, Stuart, can you give us a split on how the $30 million that relates to the tax issue, which you have expensed, interest expense and operating costs, how that split is, if possible? Secondly, on the Mexilhao project, how conservative have you been? The project, as you mention, it's only 12% complete, and you mention in your report that you have rescheduling discussions with Petrobras. How confident should we be that you will not incur further problems, i.e., in the actual pipe laying and the execution of the project? And finally, you also mentioned a $1 billion order intake this year. How much is that for 2008 execution? I recognize that the margins were very low, but just to the revenue side--how much is the booked revenue now for 2008? You have by the end of Q4 [2.2], so I'm just wondering what that number is at the moment.

TOM EHRET: Yes, I don't think that the Pazflor, Deep Panuke, and Pluto will have a massive impact in 2008, to be honest. So these additional awards will have a minimal impact on 2008.

That being said, we currently have 73% of our--of the guidance booked for the year, which is likely better than last year at the same time, from memory. So we're feeling pretty comfortable in that context.

Turning to your question on Mexilhao, how confident should you be, etc. You know, we have--because we are at the beginning of the project, we have a substantial amount of provisions--sorry, of contingencies, in the project. We have taken additional provisions against specific third party costs, as I explained earlier.

We are not particularly concerned about the actual pipe laying operations, which I think we must do well. And right now, the big question is the timing for the execution of the work, which depends on our client's own issues, and that we are discussing with them.

Personally, I'm content that the provisions we have taken, that the view we have taken in order to have accepted is right, is safe, and is correct. And I do not believe that you should expect any deterioration from this project no more than any project can go up or down, depending on execution going forward.

In fact, there is a--as I said to an earlier caller, an objective clearly established within the company to recover the position during 2008, and I think there's a good chance for us to do that.

STUART JACKSON: And in relation to your tax question, the split of the $13 million, I prefer not to give that split, because obviously, that includes what we've assumed for penalty interest, which is commercially sensitive.

RICHARD JANSEN: Okay. Thank you.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from the line of [Karen] Tonks from Credit Suisse. Please ask your question.

KATHERINE TONKS, ANALYST, CREDIT SUISSE: Hi. On the Piper schedule, will there be any income impact with the Piper being late in starting Mexilhao, in terms of either what you're planning for it to delay through on, or maybe on anything that you're bidding for, back in NEC?

TOM EHRET: No.

KATHERINE TONKS: And on the renegotiations, can you give us any idea of the ballpark timing for conclusion of those, based on terms of the permitting issues that the client has, and also your end negotiations?

TOM EHRET: No. Sorry, I don't want to be negative here, but it's difficult. It was the summer holiday, and the Carnival in Brazil lately, and things tend to slow down when that happens. So the discussions haven't progressed hugely in recent weeks.

There's a lot of uncertainty around the timing. This is not concerning us from the point of view of what happens after--unfortunately, we don't have an immediate commitment on the Piper after Mexilhao. We know that Mexilhao is very important to our client, and they want to have it done, and want to have it done as soon as possible. And they're dealing with their permitting issues.

So I think it won't have an impact, actually, whether--when the Piper is executing two or three months earlier or later doesn't make--won't make a big difference.

KATHERINE TONKS: Thank you.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from [Wolf Cavetz] from SEB Securities. Please ask your question. xxx

WOLF CAVETZ, ANALYST, SEB SECURITIES: Yes, (inaudible) here from Enskilda--good evening, gentlemen. The first question relates to CapEx guidance for 2008. What could we expect there?

STUART JACKSON: Our guidance we gave a couple of months ago was $130 million in total for 2008, which excluded CapEx associated with any tenders, so there's capital required there, or any strategic (inaudible).

WOLF CAVETZ: Okay. And to Mr. Ehret, you mentioned that when you are giving guidance, moderate improvement is 100 to 200 basis points. When you are saying continued improvement, what do you mean in basis points then?

TOM EHRET: Sorry, I'm not sure I understand the question. I haven't changed my formulation. The formulation is that we expect moderate growth, and I have characterized moderate growth as 100 to 200 basis points or thereabouts, and that's unchanged.

WOLF CAVETZ: Ah, I'm just going back to your guidance from mid-July, the 11th of July, when you published your Q2 figures, when you expected 2007 to show a continued improvement in EBITDA margin versus 2006. So I'll be first looking, what's the difference between continued improvement and moderate improvement, which is your guidance now for 2008?

TOM EHRET: Oh, I think it's probably very difficult to talk about 2007 Q2 guidance at this juncture--a little bit irrelevant. I mean, frankly, what I am trying to express is the fact that, okay, we've had margin growth between 3% and 4%, 4% and 5%, 5% and 6%. And we have a blip in 2007 where we have no margin growth--in fact, we have a slight margin reduction.

I am saying that this is a blip, that the trend continues to be for margin growth, that I expect margin growth in 2008 and beyond. I think that's what I'm trying--now, you can try and pin me down on whether it's continuously moderate, or moderately continuous, and whether that's 100 and 200 basis points--frankly, I'm--you know, it's kind of difficult to go beyond that in terms of accuracy.

WOLF CAVETZ: You know when you look back in history, and the substance is, we wish you know most of them myself, it has been many blips. It's just, what I would like--if you look back to your guidance for 2007, or what you actually said six months ago, you were guiding for revenues between $2.7 billion to $2.8 billion. You were guiding for continued improvement in EBITDA margin. You were guiding for tax rate at 35%. You were guiding for CapEx at [220], and joint venture contribution $40 million.

For 2007, you failed on everything, on these measures. And what I would just like to highlight is, how confident are you now for your guidance for 2008?

TOM EHRET: You know, we are as confident as we can be, as we have ever been for guidance. Guidance is guidance--you know, if it was a certainty, it wouldn't be called guidance to start with.

Now, we have tried to explain that there is a couple of events which have caused us not to meet the guidance we had given initially. I would like to remind you that the initial guidance for 2007 was a top line revenue of $2.3 billion. We revised the guidance upwards to $2.7 billion, $2.8 billion in Q2, and we finished at just under $2.7 billion. When you consider the granularity of our business, and the timing shifts which are not necessarily depending on us, that sort of variance is, in my opinion, as far as top line revenue is concerned, perfectly normal. And therefore, I totally refute the fact that we failed on top line revenue, number one.

Number two, on EBITDA, we failed--you're absolutely right. We failed because of Mexilhao. We've taken a big hit on this, you know? It's about a 100 basis point hit. Had we not had that hit, we would have also succeeded on this line, okay? And if Mexilhao eventually comes in good next year, looking backwards, things will have been okay. But we're prudent people, so we've taken the full-blown reservations.

On the joint ventures, we had guided to $40 million, and we're only doing $30 million. As you know, this is perfectly due to the SapuraAcergy joint venture where we had a $10 million loss. That $10 million loss wasn't forecasted at the time, because $6 million of it comes from an interest swap, for which we haven't been able to--or, our joint venture company hasn't been able to provide documentation that makes it effective in terms of mark to market.

So okay, disappointing, but I don't see that as, either, a big failure, and we should return to normal next year, as we said earlier.

So you can always look at things like the glass is half full or half empty. You clearly see it as half empty--I clearly see it as half full. But at the end of the day, it's the same half glass.

WOLF CAVETZ: Thank you, gentlemen, and good luck with reaching your targets for 2008. Thank you.

TOM EHRET: Okay.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from Thomas Dietz from ABN Amro. Please ask your question.

THOMAS DIETZ, ANALYST, ABN AMRO: Yes, it's Thomas Dietz from ABN Amro. Just if I could, go back to your guidance, just on the top line. I'd like to confirm that that guidance is still $3 billion. And secondly, just a housekeeping question on your share buybacks. I was wondering whether your intention was, at some point, to cancel some of those shares. And lastly, if I may, in the fourth quarter of your trading updates, you were talking about variation orders and insurance claims that you were in negotiations, mainly on Greater Plutonio. I was just wondering how those were going.

Thank you.

TOM EHRET: The last question--when Greater Plutonio, we have wrapped up during Q4, and we have concluded the discussions we had at the time on those. There are still bits and pieces of work to do, which is additional work, really, but that's not material.

So we also have a normal amount of insurance discussions, some of which could have closed before year and didn't, and some hopefully will close later in 2008. So nothing abnormal there. I don't think there is much to add to that.

Now the next question was--

STUART JACKSON: On the guidance issue, our revenue, unchanged, as you say, at $3 billion for 2008. And on the share buybacks, whether or not we would cancel some of those shares, and we're currently holding 6.9 million. We have outstanding obligations under share option schemes at 4.1 million, together with the convertible note, which we may have to consider might get converted at some stage. So I'd say at the moment, our plan is not to cancel those shares.

THOMAS DIETZ: Okay. Thank you very much, gentlemen.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from [Chris Chin] from Coldwater Capital. Please ask your question.

CHRIS CHIN, ANALYST, COLDWATER CAPITAL: Yes, hi. As you try and ramp up your revenues, the Asia/Middle East area, can you just give us an idea of some of the upcoming projects that could be important? You picked up a nice one with Pluto, also with [Gumesut] coming up. Can you give us a sense of what the timing might be, and what your competitive positioning might be in terms of possible award there?

TOM EHRET: You know, I don't like to go into specific projects, to talk on projects which are currently being tendered. It's a bit sensitive commercially. But there are--I mean, you mentioned Gumesut--it's a large project coming up. We are also chasing work in Australia, and in India, for Reliance in India, and in Australia, there is work being bid for--further work being bid for Woodside, and I think--I'm not sure who the other one is.

But there is a sort of fairly reasonable mettle of prospects in the tender bank. Some of them quite large, like Gumesut, for example, or like some of the Indian work coming up. And there is a significant amount of work, about $1 billion, that is being tendered for the Sapura 3000 on the sort of trunkline--in the trunkline market.

These are essentially jobs in the region of $50 million to $100 million apiece, and there's a lot of them out there, which are currently in active tendering.

CHRIS CHIN: Are some of these of the size that could be similar to West Africa? Or are they substantially lower?

TOM EHRET: Yes, it's beginning. I mean, if you look at something like the [V6] development on the east coast of India, which is currently being executed by others--that was, I think, around $1 billion. Gumesut is probably around $1 billion as well.

So you have--you begin to see those number of jobs in deepwater--Kikeh is probably in that same league. We are going to do the export line on Kikeh, but the overall project for the other players is probably in the $1 billion range.

So yes, you can see similar sizes coming through. Yes.

CHRIS CHIN: Thank you.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from Chris Welton from LPM Research. Please ask your question.

CHRIS WELTON, ANALYST, LPM RESEARCH: Good afternoon, gentlemen, and Karen. One housekeeping question, and then one question on the AfMed.

Housekeeping--when you switched to IFRS, are the FIN 48 provisions that you've taken this quarter going to be impacted?

And then, on the AfMed region, your operating income for the quarter was just phenomenal, which I guess was partly due to the Greater Plutonio completion. Does this mean that going forward, that for the first half of '08, we could expect perhaps a year on year dip in revenues, and operating income? Not to put into question the longer-term profitability of the projects. But you signed some big projects that are not going to be generating much revenue during--at least 2008, if I understood you correctly. And you've had some big projects just finish. So could we sort of expect AfMed to maybe tail off a little bit for the first half, and then take off again starting the second half? Is that a fair assumption?

STUART JACKSON: I'll go first with the IFRS point, Chris. When we convert over to IFRS, the provisioning we've taken in terms of FIN 48, I don't expect there to be a material change in terms of the rollover provisions. There will be some changes associated with deferred tax penalties, which sit on the balance sheet, particularly on the U.S. GAAP perspective and the FAS109 9E, if you want to go investigate it further.

But what we will be doing is, in mid-March, coming back with a separate presentation in terms of the year end 2007 results, in an IFRS format, with providing documentation how you move from one to the other. And that will go down line by line in terms of all the impacts, including all the tax impacts on the P&L and balance sheet basis.

CHRIS CHIN: Sounds like fun to prepare.

STUART JACKSON: I'm sure you're looking forward to it.

TOM EHRET: On the question of the flow, quarterly flow, in AfMed in 2008, I am trying to look them up. You know that I am not particularly fond of quarterly considerations when it comes to big projects like this, because they tend to be very, very volatile.

I think what you have to bear in mind, in relation to your question, is two things. First of all, that some projects like Kizomba C and Moho Bilondo are in a reasonably advanced stage of completion, and we'll continue to advance in the first period of the year. So that's an important point.

The other thing you must remember is that we have a substantial period of dry dock of the Polaris in 2008, whereby she will be out of work--not out of work, but out of contention for work--between May and September. So actually, you might see AfMed weaker in the middle of the year, and stronger at the beginning and the end.

CHRIS CHIN: Okay. Thank you for that.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from Frederik Lunde from Carnegie. Please ask your question.

FREDERIK LUNDE, ANALYST, CARNEGIE INVESTMENT BANK: Good afternoon. A couple of questions, first on the Sapura 3000. You mentioned that the issues on the (inaudible) you to enter a new region and doing trunkline. And is that exactly what you're doing in southeast Asia with Sapura 3000?

TOM EHRET: Well, not really, but that's a number of differences here. Sapura 3000 is not only a trunkline vessel, she's like the Polaris. The Polaris is a multi-purpose deepwater asset, that tend to have a [lift] trunkline, and deepwater construction (inaudible). So Sapura 3000 is a similar sort of vessel.

And we, Acergy, will use the Sapura 3000 like we used the Polaris, as a SURF vessel. Our partner, who has underwritten a 150-day utilization of the asset in Malaysia for the next ten years, will use the asset for conventional trunkline type work.

So really, we're not talking here about transporting an expertise and an asset from one region where it's been developed into another. Basically, the trunkline aspect of the work handled by the JV will be handled by our partner, who has considerable experience in so doing. And we will use the asset principally for what we are good at, which is deepwater SURF.

Is that helping?

FREDERIK LUNDE: It is. And one more question, on Kikeh.

TOM EHRET: Yes.

FREDERIK LUNDE: There was an announcement from a company called Ramunia Fabrications, that they have withdrawn from the fabrication of a (inaudible) from Kikeh. And I think this was a couple of weeks ago. And as far as I know, you're supposed to start installation on Kikeh just last--in a day. So does this impact the schedule?

TOM EHRET: Frankly, not to my knowledge. We are basically mobilizing now for Kikeh, and I think the Sapura 3000 will be in the field end of March. And to my knowledge, there is no change to that plan, from what you've just mentioned, which I wasn't aware of, actually.

FREDERIK LUNDE: And another question, on the competition. [Berber Oxford] is reportedly investing $2.5 million in subsea vessels, (inaudible) has what's seems like it's going to win the Block 31 contract, and we've seen that (inaudible) in Norway potentially merging. This, to me, points to increasing competition for the larger projects as these companies move up the ladder.

How do you see this playing out with all the tenders in the markets?

TOM EHRET: Well, one of the problems in this business is always that people tend to overestimate the importance of assets, and underestimate the importance of people. People, and collective track record, and experience.

So I think--to actually get anywhere near the sort of jobs that we are now doing, and tendering, and chasing, you need a lot more than just a piece of equipment. You need (inaudible) people.

I think that's what makes me say that competition may increase somewhat at the fringes, but market is increasing as well, and I don't see this creating an imbalance in the next two to four years.

FREDERIK LUNDE: One last question, if I may. You've booked about $660 million of work with just (inaudible) execution--that's including Block 15. And that's about 20% of what consensus is looking for you to be reporting, so that's [nine]. At the same time, (inaudible), Panuke and (inaudible), those projects are offshore in mid-2010. So I guess I believe the impact on 2009 vessel capacity--how do you expect to fill that gap?

TOM EHRET: Well, I don't see necessarily that we have a gap, actually, because I have actually looked up the numbers, and we are--go back to the last three years. If you look at where we were at in terms of order book for year end +2, which is 2009 now, versus where we were a year ago and two years ago, we had, effectively, in 2005, 22%, in the total 2006, 21%, and at the end of 2007, 21%. So we are at the same level of coverage, quote/unquote, for year-end +1, than we have ever been before.

FREDERIK LUNDE: But isn't it true that these projects are getting bigger, and thus, the lead time also increases?

TOM EHRET: Some are, but you know, the difficulty is--it comes in communication. We all--we do and you do concentrate on the big ones, and they're important. You know, there's a significant number of some medium-sized projects--they are, too, getting bigger. Instead of being $20 million, they're $30 million, if you will.

But there are quite a lot of them, too. In NEC, in West Africa as well, on the conventional side of things, in Asia. We don't announce them all, because they're below the $50 million threshold, if you will.

So to me, the sort of mix isn't changing that dramatically that we should be worried about this.

FREDERIK LUNDE: Well, thank you very much.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from Kjell-Erik Eilertsen from Fearnley. Please ask your question.

TOM EHRET: Yes? Hello?

KJELL-ERIK EILERTSEN, ANALYST, FEARNLEY: Hello?

TOM EHRET: Yes?

KJELL-ERIK EILERTSEN: Can you hear me?

TOM EHRET: Yes, I can hear you.

KJELL-ERIK EILERTSEN: The first question is regarding the Pluto LNG project. It states in the press release that the offshore work will commence in the second half of 2009. When do you expect to complete the work?

TOM EHRET: In--about a year later.

KJELL-ERIK EILERTSEN: Okay. The same question applies for the Deep Panuke project, when the offshore work is scheduled to come out during the second quarter of 2010, and how long--when do you expect that to be complete?

TOM EHRET: I think it completes in 2010.

KJELL-ERIK EILERTSEN: In 2010--all right.

TOM EHRET: Yes.

KJELL-ERIK EILERTSEN: Then finally, a question about the smaller, deepwater project you won in the Gulf of Mexico. When--I expect--I assume that was of the size below $50 million?

TOM EHRET: That is correct. It's just below $50 million, yes.

KJELL-ERIK EILERTSEN: And when will that be executed?

TOM EHRET: I think it is to be executed immediately after Frade, which means probably first half of 2009.

KJELL-ERIK EILERTSEN: Okay. All right, thank you.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from [Jeffrey Stone]. Please ask your question.

JEFFREY STONE, ANALYST: Yes, good afternoon. Two questions, if I may. The first one relates on the (inaudible)--I mean, on the new contract that you recently won, Pazflor (inaudible). If everything goes well, what should we expect in terms of EBITDA margin, because you know, oil companies continue to complain about the pricing power of subsea contractors.

And then, a second question on tax rate guidance. Why--just a point of clarification, maybe. Why are you sticking to your 2008 tax rate guidance, while you have been able to take a provision before you reach (inaudible) expected outcome of the ongoing tax audits in Q4 '07?

TOM EHRET: I'll let Stuart answer that second question, but I'll start with the other one. Obviously, this is always the big question, you know? And commenting on individual project margins is not something that we do.

I'll say, the oil companies are complaining that the subsea contractors have too much purchasing power, and the subsea contractors are complaining that the oil companies are not paying what they should pay, given the risks they ask us to take. So I think that is an old subject, which will not go away, I think, overnight.

At the end of the day, the question is whether they have a choice or not, and whether, more importantly, they are able to redesign their interface with the national oil companies that are, nowadays, in control of the situation more often than not. And, it is a fact that the national oil companies are taking a loss--it's not all of the upside, now that the oil price has moved to the levels we know.

And perhaps that's where they should concentrate, because as far as we are concerned, the subsea contractors, we're squeezed between the take of the national oil companies on the one hand, and how much the oil companies are prepared to pay, seemingly quite happily, for drilling. And the drilling costs have gone up in a massive way, and nobody seems to be arguing about that.

So at the end of the day, this is a little bit of a standoff that will probably continue for a little while until a new balance and equilibrium is found. So far as we are concerned, either we get paid for the risks we take, and for the investments we make, or we have to change our business model--take less risks. And look at improving our bottom line by increasing--by improving the risk profile.

So I think this is a work in progress. We are in a conditional period in our industry. This debate will continue, and will eventually settle somewhere. But we will be quite robust in that respect, going forward.

Now, on the question of taxes, I will hand it over to Stuart.

STUART JACKSON: Thank you, Tom. So your question was, why has our guidance not changed, given that we've made these provisions?

First, I'd say that taxes, by its nature, is historic, so the provisions we're taking in relation to open tax years in the past--in fact, in France, going back as far as seven or eight years, in terms of the provision we've had to take. The other aspect of it is, what we're executing now, so for delivery in 2008 and into 2009, will be the runoff of the existing contracts, which were contracted under the ineffective contracting arrangements I noted earlier. So we have to run off those contracts and absorb that tax impact before we get to the impact of improved tax efficiency going forward.

And that's why the guidance is at 35% in 2008, with a target of going down to a competitive level of 30% to 33% in 2009.

JEFFREY STONE: Okay, thank you.

OPERATOR: Your next question comes from Tao Ly from JP Morgan. Please ask your question.

TAO LY, ANALYST, JP MORGAN: Good afternoon. Just--you mentioned that Asia is really equipped to be a $300 million region. I just wanted to try and get an idea of the projects ramped up there. You mentioned Pluto, '09, 2010. What were the projects that you mentioned that would come in before that?

TOM EHRET: Okay, so the--right now, we are working on [Maori], which is in New Zealand. Then we just finished Vincent in Australia, working with Maori. Then we are off to, I think, [Li Hua] in China. And then, (inaudible) in Australia, (inaudible). These are the projects we are engaged in. These are all SURF projects, using the Toisa Proteus in--mostly in 2008.

TAO LY: That's great. And just on pass-through, you mentioned that pass-through is--revenue is a little larger on trunkline projects. What's typical ballpark compared to a SURF project?

TOM EHRET: You know, I don't think I could give a--

TAO LY: All right, sure.

TOM EHRET: --a typical number, but on Mexilhao, it's particularly large, because it involves moving 80,000 tons, if my memory serves me correctly, of pipe into Brazil to the other, pipe which Petrobras had bought years ago, and cleaning it, and verifying it, and so on and so forth. So a task which normally you don't do, when you do a job like this.

So I think--I wouldn't call it typical, but on a job like Mexilhao, I think it's probably at least 50% pass-through. I would say on SURF projects, it varies hugely. It goes from no pass-through, like in the U.S., like Perdido, for example. There was no pass-through, because in the U.S., that's just the way they contract. It's pure transport and installation in contracting.

To probably 50% on some of the larger projects, where there was a lot of supply. And it oscillates probably around 30% as an average.

TAO LY: That's great. Thanks very much. And just one more thing. Someone once told me you always aim to be half a ship short. Are you generally still finding yourself half a ship short in terms of capacity?

TOM EHRET: If you asked our North Sea management, they would say they were two ships short in 2007, and yes, we are--we maintain that philosophy. In other words, try to have enough enabling assets, i.e., highly differentiated ships, and accept that on the, sort of, more ordinary vessels. We are somewhat short, and rely on the market.

TAO LY: So a (inaudible) service, even at the upward renegotiation on the Harrier, is kind of--sort of par for the course, do you think?

TOM EHRET: Sorry, I didn't--

TAO LY: You mentioned the renegotiation on the Harrier, kind of--that's an upward renegotiation. Can I just assume that that's kind of par for the course just now? That's just--that's what you'd expect, an upward renegotiation, given current conditions?

TOM EHRET: Yes. Yes, of course, yes. These--the Harrier, for example, having been on contract for years and years down there, that was contracted in a different era. And it has to be said, the client has accepted to consider that this is a different era, and the new rate reflects that. Yes.

TAO LY: And which year was it originally contracted?

TOM EHRET: Six years ago, I think.

TAO LY: Right, okay. Okay. And I suppose you can't really give any details on how much higher it might have been?

TOM EHRET: No, sir.

TAO LY: Okay, that's fine. Thank you very much.

OPERATOR: Your final question comes from Martijn Rats of Morgan Stanley. Please ask your question.

MARTIJN RATS, ANALYST, MORGAN STANLEY: Hello. I had a final question, which relates to bidding margins. In the past, you've commented that bidding margins could potentially go up quite significantly, but given that there has been such a lull of contract awards, particularly for large ops in West Africa, it is actually difficult for you to comment on for quite some time, whether these margins actually would--whether you would actually get them in the future.

And now we do have two data points, or at least, you have two data points, the Block [51] and the Pazflor contract. And I was wondering whether you could perhaps comment on whether the, sort of recent environment in West Africa, is moving in the direction that you believe would be a fair compensation for the risk that you take on and the value that you create for your clients.

TOM EHRET: Again, I am loath to mention specific contracts. You have to remember, first of all, that both Pazflor and Block 15 were probably bid over a year ago. So whatever the number is in the end reflects more the market conditions of one year ago or more, than the last three or four months, for example.

What I would say, Martijn, is that in 2007, the market margins have been flattish. And some have been higher, some have been lower, depending on timing. And that was another thing driven primarily by the fact that there was this huge overhang of West African awards which was not coming through, which made a lot of people nervous.

So at the end of the day, that has, I think, kept the margins in check, so to speak, in 2007. So I don't believe they have, in an average sense, moved up in 2007.

Now, will we see that reflection point happen in 2008? Well, I think, to a very large extent, that depends on Nigeria, because Nigeria is the place where most of the new work in the immediate term could come from, and there's a lot of it. But of course, it's very uncertain as to when some of this will be unlocked. We have some indications that there will be movement now pretty soon in Nigeria. The speed at which that movement and the size of that movement will determine whether there will be tightness in the market during the next period, and that tightness, then, could lead to better margins.

I can't really say more than that. It's something that has to be monitored as we go on.

MARTIJN RATS: Okay, thank you.

TOM EHRET: All right. I think we have completed the calls. Thank you to everyone for some stimulating questions, and for an interesting discussion.

But I would like to close this call by reiterating that Acergy made great progress in 2007, which could be forgotten given the fact that, naturally, a lot of the questions are on the problem areas, and we do acknowledge we have a few. I hope we have been able to answer the questions on those problem areas, but of course, they take a disproportionate place in the discussion, and would almost make us forget that we have had a very good year overall in terms of operational delivery, in terms of order book buildup, and our minds are now focused on the opportunities before us in 2008 and beyond, as we have dealt with the past in a prudent and correct manner.

The world economies have inexorable demand for energy, and our industry faces more challenging conditions under which to find and extract those hydrocarbons. That is an inescapable fact. That combination creates a really serious long-term commercial opportunity of exceptional scale, and Acergy is designed to exploit it.

So we'll [improve] on keeping you all informed on our progress, and we feel very confident in our future.

Thank you very much, and have a good day.

OPERATOR: That does conclude our conference for today. Thank you for participating. You may all disconnect.

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Company / organization: Name: Thomson Financial; NAICS: 551111

Publication title: Fair Disclosure Wire; Linthicum

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 13, 2008

Publisher: CQ Roll Call

Place of publication: Linthicum

Country of publication: United States, Linthicum

Publication subject: Business And Economics, Law--Corporate Law

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

ProQuest document ID: 466218096

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/466218096?accountid=4840

Copyright: 2008 CCBN, Inc. and FDCH e-Media, Inc.

Last updated: 2018-02-21

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 77 of 313

Tupi Adds Luster To BG's Investor Appeal

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Petroleum Intelligence Weekly ; New York (Feb 14, 2008).

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Carnival may be over in Rio, but the party is still going strong for BG.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

Carnival may be over in Rio, but the party is still going strong for BG. Already an investor favorite thanks in large part to its years of steady upstream growth, the UK company is now the proud owner of a 25% stake in Brazil's giant Tupi discovery, which Chief Executive Frank Chapman believes "may be larger than Kashagan." The company estimates total hydrocarbons initially in place in Tupi at somewhere between 12 billion-30 billion barrels of oil equivalent, and net reserves accruing to BG from Tupi and other Brazilian prospects at 2 billion-3.5 billion boe. BG's previous estimate of Tupi's overall resource base was for 1.7 billion-10 billion boe, while state operator Petrobras currently estimates total recoverable reserves for the field at 5 billion-8 billion boe (PIW Nov.19,p9). Tupi could move forward as a multiphase development, Chapman says, starting with an extended well test by early 2010, leading, through stages, to full field development in 2015 or so with gross output between 500,000-1 million barrels per day of oil and 500 million cubic feet to 1 billion cubic feet per day of gas. This final development stage could involve five to 10 floating production, storage and offloading vessels, each tied into 10 or more wells, plus gas infrastructure. An LNG project by then can't be ruled out, Chapman says, although Petrobras is considering linking its nearby Mexilhao gas field by pipeline to shore near the city of Sao Paolo, where BG is the local gas distributor.

Tupi has given a huge boost to BG's overall resource base, which has grown by 42%, or 3 billion boe, over the past two years and now stands at just over 10 billion boe. Even based on its more strictly defined end-2007 proven reserves figure of 2.04 billion boe, BG has a reserves-to-production ratio of 9.25 years, putting it on a healthier reserves footing than supposedly bigger rivals such as Royal Dutch Shell and Spain's Repsol YPF, and not far behind Total and BP. Shell currently has a forward reserve life of less than nine years, analysts estimate, while Repsol has around six. Tupi will also underpin volume growth for BG of between 6%-8% per year all the way out to 2020, making the company "the only real growth story in the European oil sector," according to investment bank Citigroup. It's not all about Tupi, of course. BG also has term LNG offtake contracts of some 12.5 million tons per year out to 2023, which it plans to boost to 20 million tons/yr if preliminary deals in Nigeria and elsewhere firm up, while its strong US market position -- it accounts for 55% of all LNG imports -- and high-value spot sales to Asia will be enhanced over the next year by new terminals in the UK and Chile (PIW Sep.13'04,p5).

With a reserves base and growth profile that is the envy of many larger integrated firms, BG's latest operational successes revive the old question of whether it might become a takeover target. The answer lies in looking at the company's share price and market capitalization. BG is currently worth around $77 billion, implying a takeout price, analysts estimate, of close to $100 billion. This would be enough to deter all but the biggest suitors (PIW Mar.4'02,p5). The only companies with pockets deep enough to contemplate such a deal would be Exxon Mobil, or government-backed giants such as Petrochina or Russia's Gazprom. BG's shares have risen 32% since the Tupi find was first announced in November last year -- a frothy enough share performance for some analysts to put a profit-taking "sell" rating on the stock.

Publication title: Petroleum Intelligence Weekly; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 14, 2008

Section: Feature Stories

Publisher: Energy Intelligence Group

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Petroleum And Gas

ISSN: 04802160

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 200039518

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/200039518?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008. Energy Intelligence Group)

Last updated: 2015-07-25

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; SciTech Premium Collection

Document 78 of 313

Happenings

Publication info: Ocala Star - Banner ; Ocala, Fla. [Ocala, Fla]14 Feb 2008: n/a.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

OLLIE GARY PLAYERS: The troupe from Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church presents the one-act plays "The Party" and "The Perfect Match" at 8 p.m. Feb. 22 at CFCC's Fine Arts Auditorium, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. Admission: $10. 237-2754, 867-1642 or 629-3782

"MOMENTS": West Port High School will host "Moments," a dance production featuring ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, hip-hop and modern styles, at 7 p.m. Feb. 29, 7 p.m. March 1, and 2 p.m. March 2, at West Port High School's Performing Arts Center in Ocala. $5. 291-4000, ext. 59845

"ONE VOICE IN PRAISE II": The St. Jude Catholic Community will present "One Voice in Praise II," the second Cantorial Concert featuring Rabbi Samuel Dov Derman, Dale Berman, and Steve Berman of Temple Beth Shalom and Anthony Palmese of St. Jude. The program starts at 7 p.m., March 2, at 443 Marion Oaks Drive, Ocala. 347-8485

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

OCALA WINTER I HORSE TRIALS: The Florida Horse Park will present equine competitions - dressage, show jumping and cross country - from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday through Sunday at the Florida Horse Park, 11008 S. County Road 475, Ocala. Free. 307-6699

LLAMA SHOW: The Florida National ALSA Llama Show and competition runs 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday at the Ocala Equestrian Complex, 1601 S.W. 60th Ave., Ocala. About 200 llamas will be there. Free. 386-496-1612

GARDENING AND NATURE DAYS: The Friends of Rainbow Springs State Park present this day of walks, demonstrations, presentations and wildlife, as well as gardening and landscaping information from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday at Rainbow Springs State Park, four miles north of Dunnellon off U.S. 41. Entrance fee is $1 for ages 6 and older.

FASHION SHOW: The St. Joseph of the Forest Fashion Show will feature fashions by Bon Worth and entertainment by Di Lemon and Associates at 11 a.m. Saturday at the church hall, 17301 E. State Road 40, Silver Springs. $8. 625-2095

CENTURY VEHICLE RECOGNITION CELEBRATION: Car show will feature vehicles from 1915 and older with music by the Good Times Jazz Band; event runs from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday at Tuscawilla Park in downtown Ocala. 368-5518

CHINESE AUCTION: The Altar and Rosary Society of St. John the Baptist Catholic Community will host a Chinese Auction from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday in Father Stegeman Hall, 7525 S.W. U.S. 41, Dunnellon. $5 for an envelope of 20 tickets; additional envelopes for $3 can be purchased at the door. 489-1984

GUN SHOW: The show runs from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, and 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday at the Ramada Inn on U.S. 27 and I-75, in Ocala. $6. 904-461-0273

WINE TASTING: The Grape Vine Wine Shop will host wine tastings from 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday and from 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday at the shop, 4701 S.W. College Road, Suite 104. 622-9463

"BORN INTO BROTHELS": CFCC will present this 85-minute Indian film that documents children in Calcutta's Red Light district at 2 and 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Ocala campus, 3001 S.W. College Road, Building 8, Room 110. 854-2322, ext. 1233

MCA GIFT SHOP PREVIEW: The Marion Cultural Alliance will present its Gift Shop Preview from 8 to 10 a.m. Wednesday, with a Starbuck's coffee tasting, at the Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 S.W. Broadway St., Ocala. 840-9521

BALLROOM DANCING: Skate Mania will hold a Valentine's dance from 7 to 10 tonight, 5461 S.E. Maricamp Road, Ocala. $7. 390-6455

USA DANCE: USA Dance will hold a ballroom dance 7-10 p.m. Tuesday at Skate Mania, 5461 S.E. Maricamp Road, Ocala. $6 for members, $8 for nonmembers. 873-4020

LUCY BEEBE TOBIAS: The author and former Star-Banner columnist will show some of her photos and discuss her new book, "50 Great Walks in Florida," from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Thursday, at Books Inc./Book Lovers Cafe, 505 N.W. 13th St., Gainesville. Free. 629-7397 or www.lucyworks.com

Other appearances: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., Thursday Feb. 21, Brick City Center for the Arts, in Ocala.

FRIDAY FLICKS: The Unitarian Universalist Fellowship in Lecanto will host its monthly Friday Flicks screening featuring "The Gods Must Be Crazy" at 7 p.m. Friday at the church, 2149 County Road 486, Lecanto. $3. 352-527-2215

FOLK ART DAYS: The Pioneer Settlement for the Creative Arts will present a weekend of classes on blacksmithing, fiddle, guitar, knitting, printing, pottery, quilting and more on Saturday and Sunday, at the Pioneer Settlement in Barberville. Fees vary by class. 386-749-2959

SUSAN STARR: Concert pianist will perform a solo recital at 3 p.m. Sunday at CFCC's Fine Arts Auditorium on the Ocala campus, 3001 S.W. College Road. $25. 867-1340

Starr will conduct a master class at 3 p.m. Saturday at the Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. $20 (or $40 for both events; $20 for students for both events).

RED, HOT ... & BLUE: Musical revue covering tunes from the '20s and beyond starts at 7:30 tonight at Central Florida Community College's Fine Arts Auditorium, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. Tickets: $12-$25. 245-4630

AMERICA: The folk-rock band America ("Horse With No Name") will perform at Silver Springs at 3 p.m. Saturday. Opening band starts at noon. The park is at 5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Silver Springs. Park admission: $24.99-$33.99. 236-2121

CHAMBER SINGERS: CFCC will host the Orlando Chamber Singers at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Fine Arts Auditorium at the Ocala campus, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. Free. 854-2322, ext. 1231

JASON RICCI & NEW BLOOD: The blues-rockers and Electro Groove recording artists will perform at 7 p.m. Sunday at Tin Cup's Tavern on the downtown Ocala square.

WADE HAMMOND: The award-winning Christian recording artist will perform at St. Mark's United Methodist Church at 9:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Sunday at 1839 N.E. Eighth Ave., Ocala. Free. 369-5904

BOBBY BARE: Country singer will perform 7 to 9 p.m. Saturday at the Florida Sunshine Opry, 431 Plaza Drive, Eustis. $17. 821-0000

GORDON LIGHTFOOT: Folk singer/songwriter will perform at 8 p.m. Tuesday at the Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 315 Hull Road, UF campus, Gainesville. $32.50-$55. 800-905-2787

MONTEREY JAZZ FESTIVAL 50TH ANNIVERSARY BAND: Star-studded salute to famed festival starts at 7:30 tonight at the Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 315 Hull Road, UF campus, Gainesville. Band includes Terence Blanchard, James Moody and Nnenna Freelon. $25-$35. 800-905-2787

"ALWAYS ... PATSY CLINE": The stage musical based on Patsy Cline's friendship with a Texas woman runs through Feb. 24 at the Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. Show times: 8 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays, 2 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. $10-$20. 236-2274

"ALL I REALLY NEED TO KNOW I LEARNED IN KINDERGARTEN": Stage adaptation of Robert Fulghum's work runs through Feb. 22, at Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. $8-$16. 236-2274

BONKERZ COMEDY CLUB: Comics Patrick Garrity and Paul Smith at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday at 718 E. Pine Ave., Ocala. $7. 425-8480

JOKEBOY'S COMEDY CLUB: Comics Tom Simmons, Hansen Sinclair and Brian Walters will perform at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday at JokeBoy's Comedy Club, 18 S.W. Broadway St., Ocala. $12-$14. 368-5653

"SPAMALOT": Monty Python runs 7:30 p.m. Feb. 19-24 at the Times Union Center, 300 Water St., Jacksonville. $27-$74. 904-632-3373

"FINS, FEATHERS AND FURS": Marion Cultural Alliance exhibit showcases animal-themed art through Friday, at the Brick City Center for the Arts, 23 S.W. Broadway St., downtown Ocala. Hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays. Free.

THE APPLETON MUSEUM OF ART: 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. $6 for adults; $4 for seniors and $3 for children ages 10 to 17; free for museum members, CFCC students, active military personnel and their families, and children 9 and under. 291-4455

"Silver Springs: The Underwater World of Bruce Mozert" - Underwater photography exhibit runs through May 11

"Recent Works"- British-born artist John Kingerlee's exhibit runs through March 30

WEBBER CENTER: Gallery on CFCC campus, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. Hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays. Free. 873-5809

"Aftermath"- CFCC will host "Aftermath: Women Artists Respond to hurricanes Katrina, Frances and Jeanne" from Feb. 26 through March 29. Opening reception runs 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 28.

PRIMARY GALLERY: Gallery inside Primary Oven, 306 S.W. Broadway St., Ocala. Hours: 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays. 390-6881

Work by artists Melissa Fiorentino, Nancy Moskovitz, Barbara Kerr, Donald Browning, Margaret Watts, Elaine Trice, Lucy Tobias and others are on display through Friday, Feb. 22

SILVER RIVER MUSEUM AND ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER: 1425 N.E. 58th Ave. (within Silver River State Park off Baseline Road), Ocala. Museum features American Indian artifacts, fossils, natural history dioramas, an 1800s "Cracker" homestead and a vintage glass-bottom boat. Park features nature trails, swamp boardwalk and Silver River overlook. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. $2, children 6 and younger free. 236-5401 or www.silverrivermuseum.com

BANK OF AMERICA GALLERY: 35 S.E. First Ave., Ocala. Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Free. 732-0170

"Celebrating Black Heritage" - Art by Marshall Pettway on display through Thursday, Feb. 28

THOMAS CENTER FOR THE ARTS: 302 N.E. Sixth Ave., Gainesville. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. 334-5067

Through March 30 - "Jesse Aaron: A Gainesville Folk Legend" opening reception runs 5 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 21

Through Feb. 24 - Alachua County Secondary Schools exhibit on display

FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY: S.W. 34th Street and Hull Road, in Gainesville. Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sun. 1-5 p.m., $5.50. 846-2000

"Inside Africa" - March 15 through Sept. 7 at the Florida Museum of Natural History, UF

HARN MUSEUM OF ART: Southwest 34th Street and Hull Road, Gainesville. 352-392-9826 or www.harn.ufl.edu

"Paradigms and the Unexpected: Modern and Contemporary Art from the Shey Collection" - exhibit of modern art, featuring works by Georgia O'Keeffe runs through May 18

"University of Florida's Photographic Legacy" - More than 35 works by UF faculty and former students will be featured March 11 through Aug. 17

WINTER FESTIVAL AND CARNIVAL: Trinity Catholic High School will host a carnival from 5 to 11 p.m. Feb. 21-22, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Feb. 23 and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Feb. 24 at the school, 2600 S.W. 42nd Ave., Ocala. 622-9025, ext. 1116

OLLIE GARY PLAYERS: The troupe from Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church presents the one-act plays "The Party" and "The Perfect Match" at 8 p.m. Feb. 22 at CFCC's Fine Arts Auditorium, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. Admission: $10. 237-2754, 867-1642 or 629-3782

DIONNE WARWICK: Singer will perform at 8 p.m. Friday, Feb. 22, as part of the Parents' Night Out portion of Kidfetti. Warwick will perform near the Ocala Regional Airport, Southwest 60th Avenue and Southwest 38th Street, Ocala. Tickets: $25 in advance, $40 at the gate. www.kidfetti.com or 291-5462

VOCAL MASTERCLASS: Professor of Vocal Music Studies at FSU Roy Delp, will host a vocal master class from noon to 1 p.m. Friday, Feb. 22, at the CFCC Ocala campus, 3001 S.W. College Road, Bldg. 4, Room 123. 854-2322, ext. 1231

KIDFETTI: Family-friendly music and community festival will include Drake Bell, Teddy Geiger, Paula DeAnda, Hunter Hayes, 535 and other acts on Saturday, Feb. 23, at Southwest 60th Avenue and Southwest 38th Street, Ocala. $15 in advance, $25 at the gate. www.kidfetti.com or 291-5461

"BARK-N-PURR": K Country and the Humane Society of Levy County will host the "Bark-N-Purr" Charity Concert and BBQ Cook-Off at noon Saturday, Feb. 23, at the Bronson Youth League, 220 Picnic St., in Bronson. $15-$35. www.humanesocietyoflevycounty.com

CAR, TRUCK, BIKE AND CRAFT SHOW: Joy Lutheran Church's second annual Family Fun Day car, truck, bike and craft show will run 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 23, at the church, 7045 S.W. 83rd Place, Ocala. $10 entry fee. 854-4509

TONY ORLANDO: The 1970s pop star will be perform at 3 p.m. Saturday, Feb. 23, at Silver Springs theme park, 5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Silver Springs. Park admission: $24.99-$33.99. 236-2121

BAY AREA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL: The Bay Area Renaissance Festival returns 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Feb. 23-April 6, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, March 28, at 11315 N. 46th St., Tampa. $16.95 for adults, $8.95 for children 5-12 and free for children 4 and younger. 800-373-0357

FLEA MARKET: The Temple B'Nai Darom will hold a flea market from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 24, at 49 Banyan Course, Ocala. Outside spaces are $10; inside spaces are $15. 861-9551

KINGDOM OF THE SUN CONCERT BAND: Friends of the Foundation of Central Florida Community College will perform at 3 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 24, in the CFCC Fine Arts Auditorium, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. Free; donations will support the Friends of the Foundation Endowed Scholarship in memory of Bob and Carolyn Hoffman and are eligible for state matching funds. 854-2322, ext. 15

SINGERS OF UNITED LANDS: Vocal quartet from Brazil, Georgia, Zimbabwe and the Czech Republic will perform at 7:30 p.m. Monday, Feb. 25, in CFCC's Fine Arts Auditorium, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. Free. The International Students Club will host a reception after the show. 854-2322, ext. 1728, or singersofunitedlands.org

FRESH AIRE MUSIC: The Fresh Aire Music of Mannheim Steamroller, featuring music by Chip Davis, at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Feb. 27, at 315 Hull Road, UF campus, Gainesville. $30-$45. 800-905-2787

JEFF BATES: Country concert will begin at noon Thursday, Feb. 28, on the downtown Ocala square. Free. 368-5518

"CARMEN": The St. Petersburg Ballet Theatre will perform the the ballet at 7:30 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 28, at the Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 315 Hull Road, in Gainesville. $24-$35. 392-1900

BENEFIT DINNER: The Andrew Semesco Foundation will host its seventh annual benefit dinner at 6:30 p.m. Friday, Feb. 29, at CFCC's Harvey Klein Conference Center on the Ocala campus. $50. 895-3654

"MOMENTS": West Port High School will host "Moments," a dance production featuring ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, hip-hop and modern styles, at 7 p.m. Feb. 29, 7 p.m. March 1, and 2 p.m. March 2, at West Port High School's Performing Arts Center in Ocala. $5. 291-4000, ext. 59845

"TWO SAINT SAY": Play by West Virginia author Ancella Bickley starts at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 29 and March 1, with a 2 p.m. matinee on March 1, at the CFCC Fine Arts Auditorium, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. The African-American Student Union is sponsoring the play. $5. 750-6381

SPRING ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR: The Queen of Peace Council of Catholic Women will sponsor the Spring Arts and Crafts Fair from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, March 1, at the Queen of Peace Parish Hall, S.W. S.R. 200. 873-8212

STRAWBERRY SOCIAL: The Ocala West United Methodist Women will host a strawberry social from 1 to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 1, in Stanfield Hall, 9330 S.W. 105th St., Ocala. $3-$5. 854-9550

"ONE VOICE IN PRAISE II": The St. Jude Catholic Community will present "One Voice in Praise II," the second Cantorial Concert featuring Rabbi Samuel Dov Derman, Dale Berman, and Steve Berman of Temple Beth Shalom and Anthony Palmese of St. Jude. The program starts at 7 p.m., March 2, at 443 Marion Oaks Drive, Ocala. 347-8485

"THE ORPHAN TRAIN": Theatre for Young Audiences production runs March 1-9 on the outdoor stage of Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. Performances start at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturdays and 3 p.m. on Sundays. $5. 236-2274

THREE DAYS GRACE: Band ("I Hate Everything About You") will join on a bill with Breaking Benjamin at 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 4, at the Ford Amphitheatre at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa. $26.50-$30. 407-839-3900

WESTERN NEW YORK REUNION: The 42nd annual reunion will be held at 10:30 a.m. March 5 at Tropic Isles Park Auditorium, 3100 10th St. West, Palmetto. $2. 941-721-9748

BREAKFAS AT STANFIELD HALL: The Ocala West United Methodist Man will host a breakfast from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. Saturday, March 8, in Stanfield hall, 9330 S.W. 105th St., in Ocala. $3-$5. 854-9550

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ISRAEL: The fourth annual Cantorial Concert, "Israel at 60: Melodies of Milk and Honey," starts at 4 p.m. Sunday, March 9, at the Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 N.E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. $22-$25. 347-2481

TAKE STOCK IN CHILDREN: The Citrus Hills Golf and Country Club will present a benefit for Take Stock in Children of Citrus County at 6 p.m. Sunday, March 9th at the Citrus Hills Golf and Country Club in Citrus County. $40 per person or $75 per couple. 746-6855

FORECLOSURE PREVENTION WORKSHOP: The Community Legal Sevices of Mid-Florida, and the Volunteer Lawyer's Project are partnering with local banks, City of Ocala Community Programs Department, Marion County Community Services and the Ocala Housing Authority to do a Foreclosure Prevention Workshop on March 13th, at 222 S.W. Broadway Street, Suite 100, in Ocala. 629-00105, ext. 2912

SPRING YARD SALE: The Ocala West United Methodist Youth will host a Spring Yard Sale from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, March 14, and from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, March 15, at 9330 S.W. 105th St., in Ocala. 854-9550

ELECTRIC FLY-IN: The Ocala Flying Model Club will host an Electric Fly-In from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 14-16, at 1020 S.E. 110 St., in Ocala. 873-9225

ST. PATRICK'S DAY: The sixth annual Ocala's St. Patrick's Day, featuring music, food and other entertainment, will run from 5 to 9:30 p.m. Saturday, March 15, on the downtown Ocala square. Free. 368-5518

SPRING VARIETY SHOW: The Ocala Moose Lodge #1014 will host their Spring Variety Show at 5:30 p.m. Saturday, March 29th, 1142 Belleview, in Belleview. 245-4293

ARTS AND CRAFTS: The Belleview South Marion Chamber of Commerce will sponsor an arts and crafts fair on Saturday, May 3, at City Hall Park behind Belleview City Hall on U.S. 441.

Add your listing

Items for the Guide should be submitted by 5 p.m. Friday for publication the following week. Press releases may be left in the main lobby of the Star-Banner building, 2121 S.W. 19th Ave. Road, Ocala; mailed to P.O. Box 490, Ocala, FL 34478; faxed to 867-4018; or e-mailed to go@starbanner.com.

Publication title: Ocala Star - Banner; Ocala, Fla.

Pages: n/a

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 14, 2008

Publisher: Halifax Media Group

Place of publication: Ocala, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Ocala, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 01633201

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 390367478

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/390367478?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright New York Times Company Feb 14, 2008

Last updated: 2012-10-13

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 79 of 313

February 19, 2008 (Page 20 of 52)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]19 Feb 2008: 20.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 48

Issue: 300

First page: 20

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 19, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249044255

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249044255?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Feb 19, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 80 of 313

Brazil alcohol ban hard for retailers to swallow

Author: Downie, Andrew

Publication info: The Christian Science Monitor ; Boston, Mass. [Boston, Mass]19 Feb 2008: 4.

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Full text:  

A decade after it introduced some of the toughest antitobacco laws in the world, Brazil is proposing similar legislation aimed at curbing growing rates of alcohol abuse.

President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva wants to prohibit daytime alcohol advertising on radio and television. His government temporarily banned the sale of alcohol on federal highways earlier this month and aims to implement similar measures at urban gas stations.

"The country can't stand by with its arms folded while hundreds of people, especially the young, die each day from the abusive consumption of alcohol," Health Minister Jose Gomes Temporao said.

The measures come on the heels of two studies that showed more Brazilians are abusing alcohol and at an earlier age. The percentage of people over the age of 12 dependent on alcohol rose to 12.3 percent in 2005, up from 11.2 percent in 2001, according a study by the Brazilian Center for Information on Psychotropic Drugs and the Federal University of Sao Paulo.

"The data also indicates the consumption of alcohol in ever younger age groups and suggests the need for a revision of control, prevention, and treatment measures," Pedro Gabriel Delgado, an expert on the issue at the health ministry, said in an e-mail response to questions.

The government is focusing on advertising and drunk driving.

Mr. Temporao said that on federal highways alone alcohol is a factor in more than half of all accidents. Alcohol-related accidents cost more than $6 billion dollars a year in lost production, car damage, and health costs, the ministry says.

In addition to the temporary ban on highway sales, the government also sent a bill to Congress to put wine and beer in the same category as liquor. The move would limit alcohol advertising on television and radio between 6 a.m. and 9 p.m.

The measures are reminiscent of a 1999 campaign that banned cigarette smoking in enclosed spaces such as bars and restaurants. That campaign helped contribute to a 12 percent reduction in the number of smokers here, Dr. Delgado said.

But efforts to curb alcohol abuse face stiff opposition. Two big retail store chains, Walmart and Carrefour, won injunctions against the ban and industry groups are fighting them as "unnecessary."

"We don't need new laws," says Marcos Mesquita, general secretary of Sindicerv, a major association of beer producers. "We need to educate people and punish them when they flout the laws we have."

The government is already feeling the pressure. Although it claimed the measures had led to a decline in road deaths over the busy carnival weekend, the justice minister admitted the legislation might be altered to allow people to buy booze on highways, if it was not for immediate consumption. Police say that would undermine the effectiveness of the ban.

Supporters of the ban note that 62 lawmakers, or 1 in 10, had their election campaigns financed by makers of beer, wine, or cachaca (a distilled alcoholic beverage made from sugar cane), according to the Congresso em Foco website.(c) Copyright 2008. The Christian Science Monitor

Credit: Andrew Downie Correspondent of The Christian Science Monitor

Subject: Smoking; Advertising; Roads & highways; Traffic accidents & safety; Liquor laws & regulations

Location: Brazil

People: Lula da Silva, Luiz Inacio

Publication title: The Christian Science Monitor; Boston, Mass.

Pages: 4

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 19, 2008

Dateline: Sao Paulo, Brazil

Section: WORLD

Publisher: The Christian Science Publishing Society (d/b/a "The Christian Science Monitor"), trusteeship under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Place of publication: Boston, Mass.

Country of publication: United States, Boston, Mass.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 08827729

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 405567123

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/405567123?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright The Christian Science Monitor Feb 19, 2008

Last updated: 2017-11-02

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; The Christian Science Monitor

Document 81 of 313

Happenings

Publication info: Ocala Star - Banner ; Ocala, Fla. [Ocala, Fla]21 Feb 2008: n/a.

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Abstract:

"FRESH AIRE MUSIC": "The Fresh Aire Music of Mannheim Steamroller," featuring music by Chip Davis, at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at 315 Hull Road, UF campus, Gainesville. $30-$45. 800-905-2787

OLLIE GARY PLAYERS: The troupe from Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church presents the one-act plays "The Party" and "The Perfect Match" at 8 p.m. Friday at CFCC's Fine Arts Auditorium, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. Admission: $10. 237-2754, 867-1642 or 629-3782

"MOMENTS": West Port High School will host "Moments," a dance production featuring ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, hip-hop and modern styles, at 7 p.m. Feb. 29, 7 p.m. March 1 and 2 p.m. March 2 at West Port High School's Performing Arts Center in Ocala. $5. 291-4000, ext. 59845

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

SOUTHEASTERN YOUTH FAIR: The fair runs Sunday to March 2 at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, 2200 N.E. Jacksonville Road, Ocala. Local students will show their livestock and household talents, as well as compete in contests such as the Dave Baillie BBQ Contest, the rabbit costume competition and the Steer Skill-A-Thon. 629-1255 or www.seyfair.com

FLORIDA HIGH SCHOOL RODEO: The rodeo kicks off the Southeastern Youth Fair at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday at the Southeastern Livestock Pavilion, 2200 N.E. Jacksonville Road. 629-1255 or www.seyfair.com

KIDFETTI: Family-friendly music and community festival will include Drake Bell, Teddy Geiger, Paula DeAnda, Hunter Hayes, 535 and other acts on Saturday at Southwest 60th Avenue and Southwest 38th Street, Ocala. $15 in advance, $25 at the gate. www.kidfetti.com or 291-5462

WINTER FESTIVAL AND CARNIVAL: Trinity Catholic High School will host a carnival from 5 to 11 p.m. today and Friday, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. Sunday at the school, 2600 S.W. 42nd Ave., Ocala. 622-9025, ext. 1116

VOCAL MASTERCLASS: Roy Delp, professor of vocal music studies at Florida State University, will host a vocal master class from noon to 1 p.m. Friday at the CFCC Ocala campus, 3001 S.W. College Road, Building 4, Room 123. 854-2322, ext. 1231

FOX HUNT: The Misty Morning Hounds Fox Hunt runs 7:30 a.m. to noon Saturday at the Florida Horse Park, 11008 S. County Road 475. Free and open to the public. 307-6699

BARK-N-PURR: K Country and the Humane Society of Levy County will host this charity concert and BBQ Cook-Off at noon Saturday at the Bronson Youth League, 220 Picnic St., Bronson. $15-$35. www.humanesocietyoflevycounty.com

MEET THE AUTHORS: The Friends of the Ocala Public Library will present an informal coffee with local authors Joyce M. Romanski, Barbara Lindner Wood and Thomas A. Chown at 10:30 a.m. Monday in Meeting Room B, Ocala Library Headquarters, 2720 E. Silver Springs Blvd. 629-7397 or 694-6389

BOOK SIGNING: Authors Sherry and Allen Bohl will sign their books 2 to 4 p.m. Saturday at Barnes and Noble, 3500 S.W. College Road. 854-3999

CAR, TRUCK, BIKE AND CRAFT SHOW: Joy Lutheran Church's second annual Family Fun Day runs 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday at the church, 7045 S.W. 83rd Place, Ocala. $10 entry fee. 854-4509

WINE TASTING: Free wine tasting runs 2 to 6 p.m. Saturday at The Grape Vine Wine Shop, 4701 S.W. College Road, Suite 104. 622-9463

FLEA MARKET: The Temple B'Nai Darom will hold a flea market from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday at 49 Banyan Course, Ocala. Outside spaces are $10; inside spaces are $15. 861-9551

LADY IN RED DANCE: The USA Dance Chapter 6072 - Spirit of Citrus Dancers will host a dance from 7:30 to 10 p.m. Saturday at Kellner Auditorium, 102 Civic Circle, Beverly Hills. $5-$7. 344-3768

BAY AREA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL: The Bay Area Renaissance Festival returns from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday through April 6, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, March 28, at 11315 N. 46th St., Tampa. $16.95 for adults, $8.95 for ages 5-12 and free for children 4 and younger. 800-373-0357

KINGDOM OF THE SUN CONCERT BAND: The band will perform a program called "My Favorite Things" at 3 p.m. Sunday in the CFCC Fine Arts Auditorium, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. Free; donations will support the Friends of the Foundation Endowed Scholarship in memory of Bob and Carolyn Hoffman and are eligible for state matching funds. 854-2322, ext. 15

SINGERS OF UNITED LANDS: Vocal quartet from Brazil, Georgia, Zimbabwe and the Czech Republic will perform at 7:30 p.m. Monday in CFCC's Fine Arts Auditorium, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. Free. The International Students Club will host a reception after the show. 854-2322, ext. 1728, or singersofunitedlands.org

DIONNE WARWICK: Singer will perform at 8 p.m. Friday as part of the Parents' Night Out portion of Kidfetti, at Southwest 60th Avenue and Southwest 38th Street, near the Ocala Regional Airport. Tickets: $25 in advance, $40 at the gate. 291-5462 or www.kidfetti.com

NOFX: Band will perform at 7:30 p.m. Friday at the House of Blues in Orlando. Tickets at $20. www.ticketmaster.com

"FRESH AIRE MUSIC": "The Fresh Aire Music of Mannheim Steamroller," featuring music by Chip Davis, at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday at 315 Hull Road, UF campus, Gainesville. $30-$45. 800-905-2787

"ALWAYS ... PATSY CLINE": The stage musical based on Patsy Cline's friendship with a Texas woman runs through Sunday at Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. Show times: 8 p.m. today through Saturday, 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. $10-$20. 236-2274

"ALL I REALLY NEED TO KNOW I LEARNED IN KINDERGARTEN": Stage adaptation of Robert Fulghum's work runs through Friday at Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. $8-$16. 236-2274

OLLIE GARY PLAYERS: The troupe from Mount Moriah Missionary Baptist Church presents the one-act plays "The Party" and "The Perfect Match" at 8 p.m. Friday at CFCC's Fine Arts Auditorium, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. Admission: $10. 237-2754, 867-1642 or 629-3782

BONKERZ COMEDY CLUB: Comics Derrick Tennant and Comedy Central's Steve Johnson appear this weekend. Johnson's credits include touring with Ellen DeGeneres, Michael McDonald, Kenny G and the late Rodney Dangerfield and writing for Larry the Cable Guy. Shows start at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday at 718 E. Pine Ave., Ocala. $7. 425-8480

JOKEBOY'S COMEDY CLUB: Comics Ricky Cruz, Erin Jackson and Brian Walters will perform at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday at JokeBoy's Comedy Club, 18 S.W. Broadway St., Ocala. $12-$14. 368-5653

"SPAMALOT": Monty Python-based Broadway smash runs 7:30 p.m. through Sunday at the Times Union Center, 300 Water St., Jacksonville. $27-$74. 904-632-3373

THE APPLETON MUSEUM OF ART: 4333 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays and noon to 5 p.m. Sundays. $6 for adults; $4 for seniors and $3 for children ages 10 to 17; free for museum members, CFCC students, active military personnel and their families, and children 9 and under. 291-4455

"Silver Springs: The Underwater World of Bruce Mozert" - Underwater photography exhibit runs through May 11

"Recent Works"- British-born artist John Kingerlee's exhibit runs through March 30

WEBBER CENTER: Gallery on CFCC campus, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. Hours: 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturdays. Free. 873-5809

"Aftermath: Women Artists Respond to Hurricanes Katrina, Frances and Jeanne" - Exhibit runs Tuesday through March 29, with an opening reception 5 to 7 p.m. Feb. 28

PRIMARY GALLERY: Gallery inside Primary Oven, 306 S.W. Broadway St., Ocala. Hours: 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays. 390-6881

Work by artists Melissa Fiorentino, Nancy Moskovitz, Barbara Kerr, Donald Browning, Margaret Watts, Elaine Trice, Lucy Tobias and others are on display through Friday

SILVER RIVER MUSEUM AND ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION CENTER: 1425 N.E. 58th Ave. (within Silver River State Park off Baseline Road), Ocala. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. $2, children 6 and younger free. 236-5401 or www.silverrivermuseum.com

Museum features American Indian artifacts, fossils, natural history dioramas, an 1800s "Cracker" homestead and a vintage glass-bottom boat.

Park features nature trails, swamp boardwalk and Silver River overlook.

BANK OF AMERICA GALLERY: 35 S.E. First Ave., Ocala. Hours: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Free. 732-0170

"Celebrating Black Heritage" - Art by Marshall Pettway on display through Feb. 28

THOMAS CENTER FOR THE ARTS: 302 N.E. Sixth Ave., Gainesville. Hours: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Saturdays and Sundays. 334-5067

"Jesse Aaron: A Gainesville Folk Legend" - Exhibit runs through March 30 with an opening reception 5 to 7 p.m. today

Alachua County Secondary Schools exhibit - On display through Sunday

HARN MUSEUM OF ART: Southwest 34th Street and Hull Road, UF campus, Gainesville. 352-392-9826 or www.harn.ufl.edu

"Paradigms and the Unexpected: Modern and Contemporary Art from the Shey Collection" - exhibit of modern art, featuring works by Georgia O'Keeffe, runs through May 18

"University of Florida's Photographic Legacy" - More than 35 works by UF faculty and former students will be featured March 11 through Aug. 17

FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY: Southwest 34th Street and Hull Road, UF campus, Gainesville. Hours: 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Saturdays and 1 to 5 p.m. Sundays. $5.50. 352-846-2000

"Inside Africa" - March 15 through Sept. 7

JEFF BATES: Country concert will begin at noon Feb. 28 on the downtown Ocala square. Free. 368-5518

COMBINED DRIVING EVENT: Sunshine State International Combined Driving Event runs from Feb. 28 to March 2. Horses and carriages will compete in a three-phase competition at the Florida Horse Park, 11008 S. County Road 475. 307-6699

"CARMEN": The St. Petersburg Ballet Theatre will perform the ballet at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 28 at the Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, 315 Hull Road, Gainesville. $24-$35. 392-1900

BOWHUNTING CHAMPIONSHIP: Traditional Bowhunters of Florida will hold its 2008 Florida State Championship Feb. 29 through March 2 at the Ocala Conservation Center in Silver Springs. 239-514-7334 or 727-421-2027

BENEFIT DINNER: The Andrew Semesco Foundation will host its seventh annual benefit dinner at 6:30 p.m. Feb. 29 at CFCC's Harvey Klein Conference Center on the Ocala campus. $50. 895-3654

"MOMENTS": West Port High School will host "Moments," a dance production featuring ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary, hip-hop and modern styles, at 7 p.m. Feb. 29, 7 p.m. March 1 and 2 p.m. March 2 at West Port High School's Performing Arts Center in Ocala. $5. 291-4000, ext. 59845

KENNY ROGERS: Kenny Rogers will perform at 3 p.m. March 1 Silver Springs, 5656 E. Silver Springs Blvd. Park admission: $30.99-$33.99. 237-2121

"TWO SAINT SAY": Play by West Virginia author Ancella Bickley starts at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 29 and March 1, with a 2 p.m. matinee on March 1, at the CFCC Fine Arts Auditorium, 3001 S.W. College Road, Ocala. The African-American Student Union is sponsoring the play. $5. 750-6381

SPRING ARTS AND CRAFTS FAIR: The Queen of Peace Council of Catholic Women will sponsor the Spring Arts and Crafts Fair from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 1 at the Queen of Peace Parish Hall, Southwest State Road 200. 873-8212

STRAWBERRY SOCIAL: The Ocala West United Methodist Women will host a strawberry social from 1 to 6 p.m. March 1 in Stanfield Hall, 9330 S.W. 105th St., Ocala. $3-$5. 854-9550

QUATUOR PARISII: The classical string quartet will perform at 5 p.m. March 2 at the Phillips Center for the Performing Arts, UF campus, 315 Hull Road, Gainesville. Tickets are $15-$25, available at the Phillips Center Box Office, University Box Office at the University of Florida Reitz Union, all Ticketmaster outlets and www.ticketmaster.com. 800-905-ARTS

"ONE VOICE IN PRAISE II": The St. Jude Catholic Community will present the second Cantorial Concert, featuring Rabbi Samuel Dov Berman, Dale Berman and Steve Berman of Temple Beth Shalom and Anthony Palmese of St. Jude. The program starts at 7 p.m. March 2 at 443 Marion Oaks Drive, Ocala. 347-8485

"THE ORPHAN TRAIN": Theatre for Young Audiences production runs March 1-9 on the outdoor stage of Ocala Civic Theatre, 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. Performances start at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. on Saturdays and 3 p.m. on Sundays. $5. 236-2274

THE INAUGURAL EVENT: HUGS Charities will host an evening of food, wine and live jazz to benefit local cancer charities from 7 to 10 p.m. March 7 at Ocala Volvo, 4150 N. U.S. 441. $50. 622-3241

"MOVIN' OUT": Professional touring musical puts Billy Joel songs to Twyla Tharp's choreography; play starts at 7:30 p.m. March 3-5 at the Phillips Center for the Performing Arts at UF, 315 Hull Road, Gainesville. Tickets are $40-$60, available at the Phillips Center Box Office or TicketMaster outlets (800-277-1700).

THREE DAYS GRACE: Band ("I Hate Everything About You") will perform on a bill with Breaking Benjamin at 6:30 p.m. March 4 at the Ford Amphitheater at the Florida State Fairgrounds in Tampa. $26.50-$30. 407-839-3900

WESTERN NEW YORK REUNION: The 42nd annual reunion will be held at 10:30 a.m. March 5 at Tropic Isles Park Auditorium, 3100 10th St. W., Palmetto. $2. 941-721-9748

FLOGGING MOLLY: The band will perform at the House of Blues in Orlando at 7 p.m. March 7. Tickets are $19, available at www.ticketmaster.com.

BREAKFAST AT STANFIELD HALL: The Ocala West United Methodist men's group will host a breakfast from 7:30 a.m. to 9 a.m. March 8 in Stanfield hall, 9330 S.W. 105th St., Ocala. $3-$5. 854-9550

THE ROOTS: Band will perform at 8 p.m. March 8 at the House of Blues in Orlando. Tickets at $27. www.ticketmaster.com

HAPPY BIRTHDAY ISRAEL: The fourth annual Cantorial Concert, "Israel at 60: Melodies of Milk and Honey," starts at 4 p.m. March 9 at the Appleton Museum of Art, 4333 N.E. Silver Springs Blvd., Ocala. $22-$25. 347-2481

TAKE STOCK IN CHILDREN: The Citrus Hills Golf and Country Club will present a benefit for Take Stock in Children of Citrus County at 6 p.m. Sunday at the Citrus Hills Golf and Country Club in Citrus County. $40 per person or $75 per couple. 746-6855

HECTOR OLIVERA: The organist will perform at 3 p.m. March 9 at CFCC Citrus campus, Curtis Peterson Auditorium, 3800 W. Educational Path, Lecanto, and 7:30 p.m. March 10 at CFCC's Ocala campus, Fine Arts Auditorium, 3001 S.W. College Road. Tickets are $18-$22. 352-854-2322, ext. 1416

"GOD'S FAVORITE": Neil Simon play based on the biblical Book of Job runs March 13-April 6 at the Ocala Civic Theatre. Matinee performances start at 2 p.m.; evening performances start at 8 p.m. Tickets are $10-$20.

FORECLOSURE PREVENTION WORKSHOP: Community Legal Services of Mid-Florida and the Volunteer Lawyer's Project are partnering with local banks, the City of Ocala Community Programs Department, Marion County Community Services and the Ocala Housing Authority to host a Foreclosure Prevention Workshop on March 13 at 222 S.W. Broadway Street, Suite 100, Ocala. 629-8322

SPRING YARD SALE: The Ocala West United Methodist Youth will host a spring yard sale from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. March 14 and 8 a.m. to noon March 15 at 9330 S.W. 105th St., Ocala. 854-9550

ELECTRIC FLY-IN: The Ocala Flying Model Club will host an Electric Fly-In from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. March 14-16 at 1020 S.E. 110th St., Ocala. 873-9225

ST. PATRICK'S DAY: The sixth annual Ocala's St. Patrick's Day, featuring music, food and other entertainment, will run from 5 to 9:30 p.m. March 15 on the downtown Ocala square. Free. 368-5518

OPEN AUDITIONS: Ocala Civic Theatre will hold open auditions for "The Music Man" at 7 p.m. March 17 and 18 at 4337 E. Silver Springs Blvd. 236-2274

FLOWER AND GARDEN FESTIVAL: Musicians from the 1960s and 1970s will perform at America Gardens Theatre at Epcot from March 19-June 1. www.disneyworld.com/flower or 407-824-4321

AARON SHUST: The singer will perform at 7 p.m. March 27 at Grace Tabernacle, 7279 E. County Road 468, Wildwood. Tickets are $12 in advance, $16 at the door. 748-3255

SPRING VARIETY SHOW: The Ocala Moose Lodge No. 1014 will host their Spring Variety Show at 5:30 p.m. March 29 at 1135 S. U.S. 441, Belleview. 245-4293

CARLOS SANTANA: The musician will perform at 8 p.m. April 29 at the UCF Arena in Orlando. Tickets at $40-$115 and can be purchased at the UCF Arena box office, ucfarena.com, ticketmaster.com or charge-by-phone at 407-839-3900.

ARTS AND CRAFTS: The Belleview South Marion Chamber of Commerce will sponsor an arts and crafts fair on May 3 at City Hall Park behind Belleview City Hall on U.S. 441.

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Company / organization: Name: Florida State University; NAICS: 611310

Publication title: Ocala Star - Banner; Ocala, Fla.

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Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 21, 2008

Publisher: Halifax Media Group

Place of publication: Ocala, Fla.

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Language of publication: English

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ProQuest document ID: 390374542

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Copyright: Copyright New York Times Company Feb 21, 2008

Last updated: 2012-10-13

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Document 82 of 313

Q4 2007 LOJAS RENNER SA Earnings Conference Call (English) - Final

Publication info: Fair Disclosure Wire ; Linthicum [Linthicum]22 Feb 2008.

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Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

OPERATOR: Good morning, ladies and gentlemen, and thank you for waiting. At this time, we would like to welcome everyone to Lojas Renner fourth-quarter 2007 earnings conference call. We would like to inform you that today's live webcast, including both audio and slideshow, may be accessed through Lojas Renner's website at www.LojasRenner.com.br in the Investor Relations section at the webcast platform.

As a reminder, questions will only be taken by telephone. Also, this event is being recorded and all participants will be in listen-only mode during the Company's presentation. After the Company's remarks are completed, there will be a question-and-answer session. At that time, further instructions will be given. (OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS).

Before proceeding, let me mention that forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs and assumptions of Lojas Renner management and on information currently available to the Company. They involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions because they relate to future events and therefore depend on circumstances that may or may not occur in the future. Investors should understand that general economic conditions, industry conditions and other operating factors could also affect the future results of Lojas Renner and could cause results to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements.

Now I will turn the conference over to Ms. Paula Picinini, Investor Relations Manager at Renner. Ms. Picinini, you may begin your conference.

PAULA PICININI, IR MANAGER, LOJAS RENNER S.A.: Thank you. Good morning, everyone. I would like to welcome our shareholders and investors to our conference call, in which we will discuss the Company's results for 2007.

I would like also to take this opportunity to highlight some information of the quarter that ended last December. Jose Gallo, CEO; Jose Carlos Hruby, CFO; and Gildo Melo da Silva, Controller and Manager, are here with me today.

First, I would like to take this opportunity also to make some more specific comments on what happened at the end of 2007 and what we see ahead in 2008. During the fourth quarter, we experienced a marketing [selection] in the second half of November and December, marking a change in the pattern we had experienced in the first ten months of this year. Given what [has changed], I believe that we had the necessary agility to manage the situation and the slowdown in sales did not affect our results in 2007. We believe the Company climate changes due to an upturn in the sales of electronics and durable goods, especially cars and houses, as well as telephones and other high ticket items that benefited from their precision of the [hill], the lower interest rate, and the extended payment terms. Probably the 13th salary bonus also had something to do with this growth, given that it's going to eventually -- was paid in the same week that we started to see the slowdown. We believe that customers have used this additional procedure to pay debt instead of making new purchases.

At the time, we were subject to questioning on the rapid change of direction we were experiencing and whether it was limited to Renner only. We believe it was not the case because other retailers were experiencing a similar trend and the big Christmas promotions and payment extensions confirm that their sales had not been as originally expected.

The graph on the page 3 gives some details of the customer flow for the retail sector as a whole, and, in my opinion, it reinforces information concerning at Renner as of the second half of November. This Company measures customer traffic, and as you can see, there really was a big change in November and December. The figures in the [IBG] monthly retail report, GMC, also confirmed a certain slowdown in apparel and footwear segments, with sales growth in November and December recording less growth than October.

Going to slide 4, it shows the percentage growth in the number of transactions in Renner in 2007 versus 2006, in accordance with the commercial calendar. Once again, it's clear we were experiencing something different from the situation through October and that this trend only began to reverse at the final week of December.

On slide 5, we have highlighted some important points since the big question, which has probably been impacting the share price. It is our growth expectations in our view for 2008. In our opinion, second questions still have to be considered and probably will be only answered with the return of post-Carnival sales, marking the real beginning of the year. It's important to bear in mind that this year we had the Carnival in the first week of February, different from 2006, when this event took place at the end of the month.

Some customers may have committed part of their earnings to finance installment payments of other items and dues. However, we must not forget that whenever the middle-class group is most cash-strapped, customers tend to migrate from more expensive boutiques and upmarket outlets to the department stores, so-called down-trading, where they can find fashion goods with affordable prices, quality and constant credit.

We also have the benefit of lower-income customers who, as their income improves, they tend to move into the formal retail sector, especially to the department stores with well-known brands, quality products, accessible prices and easily available credit.

Another point worth bearing in mind is the question about stamina of the small and medium-sized retailers, who are more aggressive regarding discounts and credit expansion in order to fuel sales and adjust their end-of-the-year inventory. This type of situation always favors the large retailers, who can move into the upcoming collections with the same price, payment options and help to finance it. This may prove an excellent opportunity to gain market share. To date, we still see some stores and boutiques on summer sales while Renner had already launched its fall/winter collection.

Given the positive and the negative aspects that we mentioned, the question that is not clear yet is if there really has been a structural change in the pattern of consumption. At least until now, January and February lead us to believe that there has not. However, the first month of 2008 post-Carnival and the entry of the fall/winter collection should provide us clear evidence on which to base our conclusion.

And finally, slide 6 shows Renner's prospects for 2008. The year got off to a normal start. The summer sales began a little later. Discount levels were normal for the time of the year. Inventories are under control and we anticipate the launch of the new collections for the beginning of February. What proved crucial was our ability to manage our inventories by postponing our renegotiating orders at the end of the year. Since November, when we first became aware that something different was going on, we have been working on this front and you can see the results in our fourth quarter '07 gross margin, which stood at 46.2% versus 45.5% in fourth quarter '06, and as for the January margin, which was better than the same period last year. The success of this initiative was underlined by the fact that our January summer sales began a week later than 2007 because our stocks were at normal levels and there was no need to alter our strategy.

The 2008 growth drivers will be the same ones that benefited our results in 2007 and we see no reason to, at the moment, to alter our initial outlook. Fifteen new stores are planned for 2008. We believe there is room to still improve our gross margin. Other projects include procurement, logistics and supply chain process, will continue to move ahead in 2008. The dilution of expenses will continue, not at the same pace and proportion as in 2007, but [so essentially] to maintain our operating leverage.

And the financial services will continue to make a positive contribution to results. Although growth should be a bit lower than last year's, when the comparison with 2006 was distorted by the initial phase of this new business.

And lastly, I would like to present some information regarding the strategic plan that was concluded at the end of 2007. In this plan, we did [start] certain opportunities and initiatives, in the strategic and operational fronts, which will guide our projects and will certainly add value to the businesses.

Among the initiatives, it's worth mentioning the potential of the store network. During 2007, we did a detailed [distat] where we identified a number of stores that we can help, both in the current format as well as in a smaller format. As for the real estate team, we can double the size of our current chain from 95 units today to something around 170, 180 stores. If we maintain the pace of 10 to 15 new stores per year being unveiled, it can take about six to seven years to happen.

We also reevaluated the opportunity generated for the Renner Card database and the business drivers for this segment. Thus, we should offer new services, such as a personal launch with check already launched at the end of 2007 and other insurance products besides the cobranded card. The study is elaborated by a consultant company also indicated that a banking license may add more value to the business with higher profitability.

[For the March], we have related opportunities to consolidate the brand and explore variations of the core business, creating growth opportunities at the retail segment through new business models taking advantage of the private brands, which we currently operate, as well as other projects and plans that we will mention further.

That brings my comments to the end of our December sales and now I would like to pass to the slide number seven, where we start to present the numbers of 2007 and the fourth quarter. As [in line], you can see that net revenues totaled R$602 million in the fourth quarter, 18.7% up year-on-year, while same-store sales recorded growth of 7.1%. Annual net revenue stood at R$1.752 billion, 22% more than in 2006 with same-store sales growth of 8.5%.

On slide 8, the map on the left shows where our units are located. We have also shown our operations in the northeast and our first store in the North in the [CDO manout]. The map also shows our three distribution centers, one in the state of Santa Catarina, one in Greater Sao Paulo and one is an advanced distribution center in [Gobotondo Garadasa, Penunbook], which provides support for the operations in the northeast. The graph on the right shows that we closed the year with a sales area of 203.5 thousand square meters spread through 95 stores, 14.3% more than at the end of 2006.

Slide 9 shows our store productivity. Net revenues per square meter averaged R$3013 in the quarter, up 3% year on year and R$9326 in 2007, 5.2% higher than in 2006.

The next slide deals with our gross profit and gross margins. Gross profit came to R$278.1 million in the quarter, 20.6% more than in the fourth quarter '06 and accounting for 46.2% of net revenue. For the year as a whole, gross profit amounted to R$810 million, 46.2% of net revenue. Gains in efficiency from improved procurement and inventory management process helped the period margin as did the highly favorable temperatures throughout the year.

The slide 11 details our selling expenses, which totaled R$128 million in the fourth quarter, equivalent to 21.3% of net revenue and R$414.6 million in 2007, representing 23.7% of net revenue. Both periods saw an important dilution of expenses. This was mainly due to bigger contributions from the newest stores opened in 2006 and 2007 and gains in [ko] from the expansion of the business, which had gradually diluted fixed costs.

Slide 12 shows our G&A expenses, which reached R$53.8 million in the quarter, 0.9% down year on year. The percentage of net revenues earned, they fell from 10.7% in the fourth quarter '06 to 8.9%. [And though] G&A expenses came to R$165 million, 15.4% up on 2006, primarily due to an increasing logistics expenses as the Company expanded into new markets. Plus the restructuring of the support areas. G&A expenses represented a lower percentage of net revenues than in 2006, mainly because of the dilution of fixed costs as provoked by the higher sales contribution from the most recently opened stores. This improvement corresponded to 0.5% of net revenue.

On slide 13, we have our financial services result. As you can see, we have given them a more detailed breakdown of financial services revenues, net of credit losses, in order to give you a better picture of these revenues. In 2007 as a whole, the results came to R$49.9 million, equivalent to 17.5% of EBITDA versus 14.7% in 2006. The upturn was chiefly due to the improved results from the new financial services, including the 0 plus 8 interest-bearing plan, personal loans and the sale of saving bonds and insurances as of October 2007, in association with [Porto Seguyasya].

On slide 14, and we can see EBITDA and EBITDA margin. EBITDA totaled R$101.5 million in the fourth quarter, representing 16.9% of net revenues, substantially higher than the 13.8% recorded in the fourth quarter 2006. In 2007, as a whole, EBITDA reached the R$286 million, equivalent to 16.3% of net revenue, well up on the two previous years. The improvement was due to a better sales performance, a bigger contribution from financial services and the positive impact of nonrecurring legal and tax items, which came to R$5.5 million for the year.

On slide 15, we have adjusted EBITDA, where we compare the Company's results excluding results from financial services and nonrecurring results. You can see that the EBITDA came to R$230.6 million, corresponding to 13.2% of net revenues versus 10.9 in 2006.

As you can see on slide 16, the net financial result was an expense of R$3.7 million in the fourth quarter and an expense of R$14 million in the full year of 2007. At the bottom of the slide, you can see that our net cash and cash equivalents totaled R$175 million at the year end versus R$193.8 million at the close of 2006.

On slide 17, we have our net income, which totaled R$62.8 million in the fourth quarter, corresponding to 10.4% of net revenue and R$156 million in 2007, equivalent to 8.9% of net revenue, 67.7% higher than the previous year.

On slide 18 shows our -- we can see our investments, which totaled R$56 million in the quarter and R$109 million in the year. As you can see from the table at the bottom, most of the funds went to the opening of new stores and the remodeling of existing ones, as well as technology systems and equipment, including the new [Pilosa] distribution center in Santa Catarina.

On slide 19, we show our expansion plan. We closed 2007 with 95 stores and we expect to now create 15 more in 2008. In the table below, we have listed the six stores scheduled to be open in the first half. In March, we will open outlets in Bourbon Shop in Pompeia, in the city of Sao Paulo and Independencia Shopping in [Minazerite], followed in April by units in Aspen Park Shop Center in Maringa, shopping center Taboao in Taboao da Serra in Sao Paulo and Palladium Shopping Center in [Curitiba [ba Parana]. In May, we plan to open a new store in Shopping Grande Rio in S. Joao do Meriti, Rio de Janeiro.

On slide 20, we have a summary of our balance sheet. Once again, our main highlights were accounts receivables under assets, which came to R$489.4 million at the year end, another relevant asset item. Permanent assets basically comprising store, installation and technological equipment, came to R$335.2 million. Looking at liabilities, we can see that shareholders' equity accounts for 42% of the total. It's clear that suppliers are still financing all of our [inventor] inventories as well as other asset items.

Slide 21 presents some information on the Renner Card. As you can see, we closed 2007 with 12 million cards issued, 16.5% more than at the end of the last year. Then we have our average ticket, which reached R$116.48 in the fourth quarter versus R$120.69 in the fourth quarter '06. In the full year of 2007, our tickets averaged R$107.12 cents against R$103.84 cents in the previous year.

Slide 22 gives a breakdown of our payment options. The chart on the top right shows our fourth quarter and we also like to draw your attention to the share of interest-bearing plan, which accounted for 15.8% of total sales and that the interest-free payment, which came to 49.9% of the total.

At the bottom right, we have the same information for 2007, where you can see that the interest sales represented 14.3% while sales in up to five monthly installments accounted for 52.9%.

On the last, we have the same information for the previous year. The lower percentage contribution from Renner Card sales is due to a greater number of new stores, where new customers initially tend to pay with other credit cards or cash.

Slide 23 shows our workforce. We closed December with 9183 employees, 1419 more than at the end of the previous year. 1198 of whom are located to our operating unit.

On slide 24, we have some information on our share performance. At the top, you can see the variation in the [ebo vista] and in our share price over the last 24 months. At the bottom, we have daily traded volume, which averaged R$47.1 million in the fourth quarter versus 10.8 million in the year before, an increase of 336%. Also in this graph you can see that the Company's market cap totaled R$4.4 billion at the close of 2010.

Slide 25 deals with dividend payments. First, you can see that we paid a total of R$34.7 million in interest on equity in December as authorized by the Board of Directors, equivalent to R$0.2852 per share. Management bodies have proposed booking dividend of R$82.2 million in our financial statements, equivalent to $0.6763 per share, which would form part of the agenda that our next annual shareholders meeting. Together, interest on equity and dividends comes to R$116.9 million, corresponding to 75% of adjusted 2007 net income.

Finally, we show should holding our annual shareholders meeting on March 31 at 11 AM Brazil time. Pursuant to the call notice published in the newspapers today, at which we will deal with important matters, including approval of the 2007 financial statements, the location of 2007 net income and the election of the Company's Board of Directors in [fiscal Q2]. Shareholders can find all the information they need by clicking on the address at the bottom of this page. And it is our sincere hope that they will attend the meeting or at least be represented there.

That brings us to the end of our presentation, and, together with our team, we will now be happy to answer your questions. Thank you very much.

OPERATOR: Gustavo Oliveira.

GUSTAVO OLIVEIRA, ANALYST, CITIGROUP: Good morning, Paula. Hello, everyone. My first question is regarding the gross margin expansion you're having. Are you sourcing more from abroad? Are you importing more in the mix of your goods? Or this is not what's driving the margin?

PAULA PICININI: Gustavo, basically the margins are being improved because we have a series of -- we have certain initiatives that we started in 2005 that are benefiting the process of procurement and the logistics part. We also have one project in the supply chain that is helping us to improve our gross margin. We import about 5% of our products -- maybe there is some chances to increase that, but the main reasons or the main drivers for the growth in our gross margin is exactly the initiatives and the projects that we have in the logistics and procurement part.

JOSE GALLO, CEO, LOJAS RENNER S.A.: Gustavo, this is Gallo speaking. In 2005, we introduced a different tax system. And I used to say internally in the Company that we have two kinds of markdowns, the good markdowns and the bad markdowns. The good markdowns is when we do mistakes -- we do mistakes in the call or in [despise]. This is normal and this is a part of the business, but we have the best markdown. The best is to send the wrong caller to one region or to send the wrong size. For example, we have some regions in the large national, large sales less than other regions. This is the bad markdowns. And we are working to reduce this -- to improve the distribution. And this is one of the reasons additionally I will mention to improve the gross margin.

GUSTAVO OLIVEIRA: Okay, so we should not expect any change in the mix of imports versus local production and --?

JOSE GALLO: We are accelerating this process, Gustavo and the idea, we hired three firms, you probably know, as a traded company last year. And our target is to double, from 5 to 10%; probably in one or two years, we want to achieve this number.

GUSTAVO OLIVEIRA: And are the margins substantially better on the imports?

JOSE GALLO: Slightly better.

PAULA PICININI: You'll have to bear in mind that we have tariffs, we have quotas, we have some other things that limit imports. And also, Gustavo, I think that it's important to bear in mind that it's good to have -- when you have a supply chain as we have here in Brazil, it's also good because sometimes when you have any change in the environment or you need to make adjustments, it's much easier when you have your supply chain very close to the operations. And I think that's the case at the end of 2007 is a good example.

GUSTAVO OLIVEIRA: You mentioned something interesting, which is the quotas we have in Brazil, regarding especially a bilateral agreement with China. This year is the year that this agreement expires. Are you following this closely? Is there any -- how do you think this could affect your business in 2009 and 2010?

PAULA PICININI: Well, because the quotas can be eliminated, but we also have, Gustavo, the reference prices and other tariffs and [bareers] to import. So I think that this is not the only thing that we need to pay attention.

GUSTAVO OLIVEIRA: So, okay. My second question is, second part of the question is regarding the strategic plan, 170 to 180 stores, six to seven years. Is all that organic growth or you are considering some acquisitions in that number?

JOSE GALLO: Organic growth.

GUSTAVO OLIVEIRA: Organic growth. And on the acquisitions that we read a lot of news articles today in the newspapers, is that something that you viewed by existing -- is more change in the market, and you would transform that, convert that into Renner stores? Or you would consider working with different brands?

JOSE GALLO: In the first moment, could be using Renner brand. The problem is we don't have regional department store chains in Brazil and we -- we all the time we look for acquisitions, but it's difficult. We don't -- the existing chains are small chains with small rooms, small sales area.

GUSTAVO OLIVEIRA: But your stores are getting smaller too, aren't they?

PAULA PICININI: Yes, but not in that way, Gustavo. I think that what you mentioned about the news that you read, there is that kind of mistake, because we were to questioned about the growth. We answered that the possibilities are for acquisitions, are organic growth and then we [fought his] explanation that acquisition is very difficult exactly because of the things that Gallo mentioned. And the opportunities are much more in the organic part. But the headlines were like that and that's the real fact.

GUSTAVO OLIVEIRA: Okay. Thank you very much.

OPERATOR: [Sufic Bayla].

SUFIC BAYLA, ANALYST: Good morning, everyone. Congratulations on the results. I have a couple of questions. The first one is related to the expansion plan. If Gallo, if you could probably give us a better strategic sense on -- I know the stores are getting somewhat smaller and do you think you can give us a better sense of what kind of environment really changes inside the store if anything. And if there is any opportunities you see to modify more dramatically inside the stores to even go into the smaller formats down the road. I just want to get a sense of the opportunity set in terms of, this is the first time you've revised that long-term guidance; and I want to get a sense on how dynamic that can be.

JOSE GALLO: When we are speaking more to expand or to reduce the size of -- the average size of our stores, means to maintain the same [meeks], but in small sales area. Between 1000 -- around 1000 and then 200 square meters on 1400 square meters. And this can give us opportunity, for example, to go to not only malls, but in downtowns. There are some cities in Brazil that it's possible to open one store in downtown and the mall and in downtown.

I'm confident -- we are more concentrated in malls to, because the opportunity is to but we are beginning to look for downtowns, good downtowns, and this can, in this scenario, downtowns probably, small stores are a better way to enter in that market than our today's side.

SUFIC BAYLA: Thanks. And I know you've talked about or considered at some point maybe spinning off one of the private labels. I think you guys have done a great job in developing each of the private label brands. And I just wanted to get a sense from you on how that analysis is going.

JOSE GALLO: It can be an opportunity. How we mentioned in our presentation, we finished in the end of '07, our strategic plan. Important to remember then in this Company, strategic plan is part of our [clue too]. We began the turnaround of this Company in 2002 with the first strategic plan, in the last strategic plan. We put in this strategic plan all the alternatives and we are creating groups to study and to study and to study the numbers, to study the CapEx and the returns and the profitability. And we are -- we will study these models and to define where it is possible to begin the experience.

SUFIC BAYLA: Okay, great. Thank you.

OPERATOR: Bob Ford.

BOB FORD, ANALYST: Congratulations on the quarter. I had a question with respect to some of the opportunities you have in your existing credit card base. Of the 12 million total credit cards that are outstanding, what proportion of those do you measure as inactive? And what do you think you can do to reactivate those consumers? And then, specifically if you could, I would love to hear what your thoughts are on the introduction of a cobranded card. You mentioned it in passing, but that, in addition to a banking license sounds very compelling to me.

PAULA PICININI: Basically, historically, we have about 40% of our cardholders as active customers. They did at least one purchase in the last 12 months. Normally, to activate these customers, we have the CRM program, we send direct-mail and even some of these financial products can also bring these customers to the store again. So normally these are the main things that we do to activate more cards or to bring the customers to the stores again.

And about the cobranded card, it's a natural trend when you have a large number of cardholders as we have and you have like 1, 1.5 million new cards per year. To continue expanding the base of your cards, it's a natural trend to launch a cobranded card. But it's not easy and it's not fast to implement. So probably this is our opportunity to the end of this year, next year, maybe. We need to evaluate some modern details and then it's a good opportunity.

And regarding the banking license, you know that we have about 10 to 12% over the spreads that are taxes. We hired a company to exactly to evaluate that and to see the opportunities that we could have in terms of tax savings have in our own banking license. The idea is not to be a retail bank, but just to have this license to have this tax savings and then have more opportunities for other products. And so this is something that is being evaluated.

BOB FORD: And Paula, with respect to that evaluation, did it occur post the elimination of the ICMS and the new rules for IOS? (multiple speakers). I'm sorry (multiple speakers) and IOS?

PAULA PICININI: Yes, new calculations are being done exactly towards just the intent and to measure the affect.

BOB FORD: Okay. And then with respect to the trends post the sluggish period in December, you mentioned nice uptick last week of December. Good numbers going into Carnival. Are you seeing a commensurate improvement as well with respect to the behavior of the delinquencies?

PAULA PICININI: Well, Bob, the bad debt and the delinquency numbers that we presented now at the end of the year, they are not connected to the slowdown in sales or the different environment in the end of the year. They are very, very connected to the fact that we implemented new products. The maturity of these new products to the base because when you look at 2007 against 2006, just to give an example, we finished 2006 with R$69 million in our portfolio of Personal Loans with only 3% of provisions for bad debt, because the provisions are being constituted based on the delays of payment. So depending on the age of the portfolio, you can have a different situation. And the main reason for the increases that are you are seeing in 2007 against 2006 is exactly the maturation process of these provisions.

I think that's the most important thing, is that when you look at the numbers of our financial services business, you can see that this result increased 84%. And the higher expenses are really connected to the implementation of this business, the maturation of this process. We are absolutely confident with the levels of bad debt that we are presenting with the provisions, with the expenses that we are having in this business.

BOB FORD: Thank you very much. It's very reassuring and congratulations again on the quarter.

OPERATOR: [Lori Berra].

LORI BERRA, ANALYST: Congrats as well on the results. Just a couple of quick questions. One is, when you were talking earlier about the strategic plan and the opportunity for 185 to 190 stores, was that in the context of the larger store format or the current store format? Or does that include the smaller downtown size stores that you were referencing?

PAULA PICININI: It includes both formats.

LORI BERRA: Both formats. Okay.

PAULA PICININI: Yes.

LORI BERRA: Okay. The comment you made in the opening discussion about how you see room for SG&A leverage this year probably not as much as in 2007. You mentioned one thing, if I got the number correctly, that there was some reduction and some legal fees in '07 that helped. But aside from that, that may have been sort of maybe onetime, is there any reason why you can't continue to see strong SG&A leverage if the top line materializes?

PAULA PICININI: Different from even our expectations, we accelerated the process of dilution, the operating leverage. And of course, it's not possible to maintain the same pace, the same speed that we had in 2006. So there is still room for some improvements in this part, some more dilution, but it's not possible to maintain the same pace and the same speed that we had in 2007. Because with the increase in the number of stores, increases in productivity, there will be a certain moment that we will need again to enlarge the teams or to adjust the structure to support the growth. So 2008, we still have conditions to dilute expenses but not in the same way that we did in 2007.

LORI BERRA: Okay, great. And on the financial services, two questions. One is, you mentioned once again in the presentation that financial services were something like 17, 18% of EBITDA in '07. As you think about your five-year program, I would be interested in any kind of benchmark to where you think those can be, looking out five years.

And then the second questions on the financial services is, if we looked at the data correctly, your gross personal loan portfolio declined I guess for the first time in the fourth quarter. And I understand totally the comments you made about the past dues are being recognized as they materialize, so that's why they've increased year-over-year. But I'm wondering, the portfolio having been smaller in the fourth quarter than it was in the third quarter, is there some significance in that? I'm wondering if you are sort of retrenching a little bit on the personal loan portfolio because the past dues are rising or just help me understand how to interpret that data.

PAULA PICININI: Okay. No, Lori, the fact is that the seasonality of the financial products is exactly the opposite of the seasonality of the retail operations. So normally people get their [13] salary, their bonuses, to pay that, and that's why you have a reduction in the portfolio side. But if you look at production of these fourth quarter, we have the same levels of the rest of the year. We have been [considering] about R$23, R$25 million per quarter as the principal amount in loans. This is what we call production. And now in this fourth quarter we have R$22 million. So it is absolutely normal. It's the seasonality, the natural seasonality of these operations.

LORI BERRA: And what -- and the question about what the financial services business might be five years out of your business, is there any way you could give us some sense of that?

PAULA PICININI: Well, Lori, we don't have any specific guidance, but we still believe that there is some [stasis] for improvement. We do [feel] our business represented 14.7% of our EBITDA in 2006. Now it's representing 17.5% and there is still room for some improvement. But we don't have any specific guidance.

LORI BERRA: Okay. And I guess my last question, and I understand if you don't want to give specific numbers, but in the past, you have given sort of thoughts on what your same-store sales growth might be for the coming year. And I'm guessing because you haven't mentioned, you are not trying to give a range for this year. But if you have one, that would be helpful. If not, I would love any more color you can give, and I appreciate your opening comments, because that was helpful, on whether you think some of -- or what your perspectives are for 2008.

I understood you to say that January and February look promising, but it's hard to extrapolate from that. Some of the issues you mentioned in terms of diverting consumer purchases to electronics and home categories, do you see any evidence that that is continuing post the 13 salary? Would be happy to take any additional comments there. Thank you.

PAULA PICININI: Yes, Lori, as I said, until now, so far, what we're seeing is that things are returning to normal levels. But I think that it's too early to say that this is a trend for 2008. Maybe we need to wait a little bit more. Remember that here in Brazil, everything is stopped during the Carnival wake, so now we are returning to -- we are really starting the year. This week is exactly the week that last year we had our Carnival. So probably it will take another one or two months to have a better color about the trends for 2008 and these things. But so far, so good.

LORI BERRA: Thanks.

PAULA PICININI: And then consider, Lori, just a complement, if you look at our compounded average growth from I think '95 to 2007, we had net sales growing about 22.8%. So I think that this is a historical and important number to use as reference because it's very consistent. It's a long-term -- it's a long period that you can use to work on it. So I think that the same-store sales is not necessary to be mentioned now.

LORI BERRA: Thank you.

OPERATOR: [Uma Sars].

UMA SARS, ANALYST: I was wondering with regard to your operating expenses in the financial services, this has now doubled to 9.9 from 4.7 last year in the fourth quarter. And I understand that of course, this is related to the expansion of these financial products, but could you help us understand whether you see this now kind of leveling out at this level or whether it is better to look at this as a percentage of your revenues from financial services? Or what is -- could you give us some -- I don't want to say guidance because you seem to be reluctant to give that. But could you give us a feel about where the operating expenses are going to stabilize from here? Thank you.

PAULA PICININI: Well, basically, of course when you look one year against the other, we have all the structure that we created. We have the people that are in the stores. We have even the back office that we created here to support these operations, and of course, this is the main reason for this increase. Maybe you can continue working on the same levels that we presented in the fourth quarter because we have a lot of projects, consultant companies and things that we are doing to continue expanding this business. So I think that you can work on the numbers that we presented now in the fourth quarter.

UMA SARS: Okay. Thank you. Can I just follow up, are you talking there about an absolute level of this -- about $10 million per quarter or are you talking about this as a percentage figure?

PAULA PICININI: No, the $10 million, the absolute number.

UMA SARS: Absolute number. Okay. Thank you very much.

OPERATOR: There are no further questions at this time. This concludes the question-and-answer section. At this time, I would like to turn the floor back to Ms. Picinini for any closing remarks.

PAULA PICININI: Thank you once again for your interest in Renner and we look forward to seeing you again in the next two quarters. Thanks.

OPERATOR: Thank you. This does conclude today's presentation. You may disconnect your line at this time and have a nice day.

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Company / organization: Name: Thomson Financial; NAICS: 551111

Publication title: Fair Disclosure Wire; Linthicum

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 22, 2008

Publisher: CQ Roll Call

Place of publication: Linthicum

Country of publication: United States, Linthicum

Publication subject: Business And Economics, Law--Corporate Law

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

ProQuest document ID: 466217595

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/466217595?accountid=4840

Copyright: 2008 CCBN, Inc. and FDCH e-Media, Inc.

Last updated: 2018-02-21

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 83 of 313

Perú Negro trae su Zamba Malató

Author: VALDEZ, YVONNE H

Publication info: El Sentinel ; Fort Lauderdale, Fla. [Fort Lauderdale, Fla]23 Feb 2008: 2.

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Una de las canciones más populares del género landó es el Toro Mata, interpretado por cantantes como Lucila Campos, Eva Ayllón y Arturo "Zambo" Cavero y la fallecida Celia Cruz. También está la "zamacueca", otra danza típica afro-peruana, el "tondero", nacido de la competencia entre indígenas y negros por demostrar quién danzaba mejor, y el tan popular "alcatraz", y el enérgico "zapateo".

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Correction:

Notes: Informational box at end of text.

Al hablar de música peruana, a muchos seguramente le viene al mente las sonoridades andinas o las cadencias de los ritmos criollos. Sin embargo, pocos saben que Perú tiene una rica tradición de música africana.

Y es en la agrupación Perú Negro que en las últimas décadas esta música, también conocida como "negroide", ha encontrado un medio para difundir por todo el mundo la riqueza de este rostro cultural un tanto desconocido en el exterior.

El alma, corazón y vida (como reza un canto peruano) de esta cultura son sus instrumentos, sus ricas candencias y enérgicas danzas, elementos con los que Perú Negro buscará cautivar hoy sábado 23 a las 8 de la noche, en el Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, en Miami

Nombrados oficialmente por el gobierno peruano como "Embajadores Culturales del Perú", Perú Negro lleva consigo a donde quiera que van, algo más que su espectáculo. Y ésta gira, una de las más grandes por el país en la visitarán 46 ciudades hasta fines de marzo, no es la excepción.

Además del espectáculo, Perú Negro está realizando en todas las ciudades por las que va, talleres de danza, de canto y gastronomía dictados por los propios miembros de la agrupación.

"Queremos mostrar nuestra cultura no sólo bailando, tenemos que enseñarla por medio de talleres de baile, mostrando los instrumentos típicos...y hablar de lo que es la cultura afro-Peruana", dijo Jaime Ronaldo Campos Ponce, de 44 años, quien en 2001 tomó las riendas del grupo tras la muerte de su padre, fundador del grupo.

Pero, ¿qué es lo que diferencia a la música africana en Perú de las de otras culturas?

"La fusión a la que se vio expuesta la música africana cuando los esclavos llegaron al Perú en la época de la colonia española", explica Juan Morillo, coproductor del grupo Perú Negro en Estados Unidos.

"En otros lugares como Cuba y Venezuela, la cultura afro no tuvo contacto con la cultura indígena y en Perú esto si ocurrió. Y en esa mezcla también intervino lo español y lo criollo", afirma Morillo.

Una tradición familiar

En la época de la colonia, los españoles prohibían a los esclavos tocar sus tradicionales tambores, por lo que estos se las ingeniaban con las cajas de embalaje que encontraban en los barcos en los que eran transportados, continuando así secretamente, en reuniones familiares, su tradición musical.

Fue así como nació el "cajón" de madera, al que se sumaría posteriormente el sonido de "la cajita" (originalmente una pequeña caja para recolectar las limosnas en las misas) y la quijada de burro - convirtiéndose estos en los instrumentos típicos de la cultura afro-peruana. Su arraigo ha sido tal, que el cajón ha sido nombrado Patrimonio Cultural de la Nación en Perú.

Perú Negro fue fundado por Ronaldo Campos de la Colina hace más de tres décadas, como un conjunto familiar de 12 integrantes, y otros colaboradores. Y desde entonces se dedicaron a difundir la música afro primero en Perú, y luego en el exterior. Campos dirigió el grupo hasta su muerte en 2001.

Perú Negro ha llegado a través de los años a innumerables escenarios en países como México, Marruecos, Brasil, Cuba, Argentina, España, Panamá, Ecuador, Canadá, Estados Unidos, entre otros.

Ganó el primer premio en el Festival Internacional de la Danza y la Canción en el Luna Park de Buenos Aires, Argentina. Y en el 2005 fue nominado a los premios Grammy y Grammy Latino, por su segundo álbum, Jolgorio (2004).

Siguiendo la tradición del grupo, aún hoy, padres, hijos, primos, y hermanos suben juntos al escenario a derrochar adrenalina y el talento que les corre por las venas.

"Somos una familia de músicos y artistas. Mi hijo mayor Eder, de 21 años, baila; el último Edu, de 14 años es percusionista, baila, y zapatea; mi hermano canta, mi hermana, Mercedes Campos, es encargada del vestuario; y otros dos sobrinos también participan en el grupo, además de mi esposa [de hace 23 años, Mónica Dueñas], quien es también, vocalista", dice Campos, también percusionista en el grupo.

Entre los platos fuertes que Perú Negro mostrará, se anuncian danzas llenas de pasión y furor como el landó, el festejo, la zamacueca, el alcatraz, el toro mata, el zapateo, y la "zamba malató" - todos subgéneros de la música afro-peruana.

Entre las principales expresiones de esta música están el landó y el festejo.

"El Festejo es muy festivo, una música muy pícara, algo así como una mezcla entre la rumba cubana y el vallenato colombiano por su contenido musical", explica Morillo. "El landó en cambio, era el tema del lamento, el tema triste; antiguamente en el landó se hablaba mucho del abuso en la esclavitud, el fracaso de la vida, de los amores fallidos...es como los blues de Estados Unidos".

Una de las canciones más populares del género landó es el Toro Mata, interpretado por cantantes como Lucila Campos, Eva Ayllón y Arturo "Zambo" Cavero y la fallecida Celia Cruz. También está la "zamacueca", otra danza típica afro-peruana, el "tondero", nacido de la competencia entre indígenas y negros por demostrar quién danzaba mejor, y el tan popular "alcatraz", y el enérgico "zapateo".

Nuevas fusiones

El contacto del grupo con grupos extranjeros ha originado en éste una evolución musical, pero sin dejar de lado lo tradicional, según afirma su director. Ejemplo de ello es su nuevo disco, Zamba Malató (Times Square Records) recientemente lanzado al mercado.

"El Zamba Malató era el baile que caracterizaba a las mujeres negras lavanderas, quienes mientras lavaban su ropa en "bateas" en los callejones, iban cantando y a la vez bailando", cuenta Campos.

"En este nuevo disco hemos querido evolucionar fusionando nuestros ritmos e instrumentos típicos con nuevos ritmos e instrumentos", afirma Campos, quien dice haber incorporado en su nuevo material las congas cubanas, el batá y el djembé africano, y un cajón grave.

Ejemplo de esta fusión en Zamba Malató es "el tema Bailarás, creado por un venezolano, al que le hemos adaptado nuestra percusión y voces", explica el director del grupo.

Pero a pesar de su evolución, Perú Negro desea mantener siempre vivo el deseo de su creador: dar a conocer al mundo el matiz único de la cultura afro peruana.

"En esta gira lo que buscamos es que no sólo se conozca a Perú Negro, sino también las costumbres de Perú, [un país] en el que hay negros, existe una raza negra y toda una cultura negra, y eso es lo que queremos dar a conocer", concluyó.

Puede comunicarse con Yvonne Valdez a yvaldez@elsentinel.com o al 954-356-4560.

INFORMATIONAL BOX:

Si vas

Qué: Perú Negro

Dónde: The Arsht Center for the Performing Arts (antiguo Carnival Center), Knight Concert Hall, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami.

Boletos: $15 a $48

Informes: 305-949-6722 o www.arshtcenter.org

Credit: YVONNE H. VALDEZ

Illustration

La puesta en escena de Perú Negro es todo un espectáculo cultural.

FOTO/ADRIENNE ARSHT CENTER

La música y los bailes de Perú Negro son producto de la influencia africana llevada al Perú colonial por los esclavos que llegaban a trabajar en las haciendas de la costa del país. FOTO CORTESIA/ADRIENNE ARSHT CENTER

Photo(s)

 

People: Morillo, Juan Campos, Lucila

Publication title: El Sentinel; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

First page: 2

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 23, 2008

Section: El Sentinel

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Publication subject: Hispanic, General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: Spanish

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 431646952

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Copyright: Copyright (c) 2008 Tribune Publishing Company. All Rights Reserved.

Last updated: 2010-06-29

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 84 of 313

Fraud amid fervour

Author: Pramit Pal Chaudhuri

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune Business News ; Washington [Washington]23 Feb 2008.

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Once upon a time, the illegitimate son of a sugar farmer, enraged at social inequity and yanqui imperialismo, came down from the hills with an absurdly small number of buddies and tossed out the evil dictator. Says Latin American expert Ian Vasquez of the Cato Institute, "Other countries in the region have achieved the same social progress during the past several decades but without sacrificing civil and political liberties."

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Feb. 23--Fidel Castro opened his revolutionary innings in 1959, when his guerrillas attacked Cuban barracks in Moncada. It was an utter failure. In the subsequent trial, Castro was unapologetic. "History will absolve me," he famously told the judge. History did better: it involved him. As Angel Prado, military commander of the 26th July Movement -- Castro's guerrilla group 2.0, later noted, the bearded youngster hadn't even been at Moncada. He and his driver had lost their way in a carnival. But no one remembers that. This set a pattern with Castro: a bit of fraud, a barrel of fervour. When Castro succeeded in overthrowing the Batista regime the second time around, he was applauded even by a young politician who became one of his bitterest opponents, J F Kennedy.

And rightly so. The early Castro was no ideologue. He was obsessed with poverty and the US -- standard stuff for Latin American radical populism. Cuban Marxists often complained El Comandante was more interested in baseball than class struggle. Even when he later declared himself a "Marxist-Leninist," only one member of the pre-Castro Partido Socialista Popular was inducted into his first Politburo in 1965. But over the years, faced with middle class Cuban flight and increasing US hostility, Castro began absorbing Soviet ideology. One thing he picked up was socialist rhetoric, something he could use for hours on end. A bit of fraud, a lot of fervour.

A romantic beginning

The Moscow metamorphosis took about a decade. In the interregnum, through a combination of charisma, good fortune and US bumbling Castro created his own Fairy Tale of the Romantic Revolutionary. Once upon a time, the illegitimate son of a sugar farmer, enraged at social inequity and yanqui imperialismo, came down from the hills with an absurdly small number of buddies and tossed out the evil dictator. This is the wet dream of every student radical. Through the Sixties and Seventies, young students across Latin America tried to replicate the Fidel Way. They all failed. Most were butchered.

In 1967, the death of Che Guevera in Bolivia was the epitome of this period of tragedy and farce. Che was spurned by the locals, even the Bolivian Communist Party stayed away. Today he lives on as a pop art icon for urban bourgeois youth, wholly unknown to the Andean peasantry he wanted to save. Least impressed were the dour men of the Kremlin.

As Cuba moved into the Soviet orbit, Moscow told him to put a lid on this revolution nonsense. In the Seventies and Eighties, Castroism reinvented itself as a development model. Cuba's huge investments in public health and mass education drove the country up the human development indices. There can be little doubt this reflected Castro's personal commitment to social welfare. His 600-age autobiography lists this as his greatest accomplishment.

Falling apart

Again, there was fraud amid the fervour. After the Soviet Union collapsed, the Cuban economy shrank by a third. There was no "Cuban model." All the schools and hospitals had been set up thanks to a yearly Soviet subsidy of seven billion dollars to a country with less people than New Delhi.

Today, Cuba runs a two-tier health system: one for those who can pay with dollars or are party members and one for everyone else. Guess who's is better. Cuban joke that under Batista, Cuba's economy depended on sugar, tourism and prostitution. After 50 years of Castro, Cuba's economy depends on sugar, tourism and prostitution. Only now the prostitutes can read. Joydeep Mukherji, who analyses Latin America economies for Standard and Poor's, highlights this contradiction, "People are literate and have little or nothing to read -- I have looked into Cuban bookstores and there is nothing there." The modern Latin American left is no longer prepared to accept the kind of repressive one-party system that Castro heads. While populist politicians like Mexico's Cardenas and Brazil's Lula give lip service to Castro, they decline to endorse his tropical gulag. Our Cuban comrades, Lula advised Havana, should "allow arguments, open up political debate, allow opposing ideas."

Says Latin American expert Ian Vasquez of the Cato Institute, "Other countries in the region have achieved the same social progress during the past several decades but without sacrificing civil and political liberties." Castro is probably fortunate the US has maintained sanctions against Cuba all these years. These allow him to rule in splendid isolation, derive legitimacy from standing up to the US and give him an excuse to maintain a one-family dictatorship. Washington's attempts to dislodge him, immortalized in the film 638 Ways to Kill Castro, only added to his mystique. Says Vasquez, "He became a symbol for many people with grievances against the US." One of the bitterest opponents of his regime were the Bacardi Rum family. These Cuban exiles paid for a series of unsuccessful private assassins and mercenaries. Because Cuba produced its own Bacardi Rum, the two sides in effect waged their battle through duty-free shops across the world

No longer a role model

Castro's fervour had been dimming, even as the fraud quotient steadily increased. Even two years ago, he was giving speeches that lasted five and a half hours. But doctors had forced him to give up his cigars. And he had to sit down during his harangues, getting up only for the last 20 minutes. Today, having retired from the presidency and handed over the reins of power to his brother Raul, even that is over.

Castro's main accomplishment has been his sheer ability to survive. But that is dark-edged. The US is still a problem, but his regime survives largely on foreign handouts and a polity that Human Rights Watch says is unique in Latin American for repressing "all forms of political dissent."

The helping hand now is Hugo Chavez, who sends Cuba 90,000 barrels of petroleum a day gratis. It is noticeable that Venezuela has supplanted Cuba on the radical left. The mainstream left of Lula or even Nicaragua's Sandanistas have taken the democratic path. After 50 years, says Mukherji, "Many people will pay respect to Castro, largely out of misguided symbolism, but very few will follow him."

Credit: Hindustan Times, New Delhi

Subject: Fraud; Political dissent

People: Castro, Fidel

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune Business News; Washington

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 23, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 462193680

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/462193680?accountid=4840

Copyright: To see more of the Hindustan Times or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.hindustantimes.com. Copyright (c) 2008, Hindustan Times, New Delhi Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

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Document 85 of 313

Echoes of Amado in the Dark and the Light

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Feb 24, 2008.

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For visitors keen to experience the tropical mysteries of Salvador da Bahia, the Brazilian writer Jorge Amado went so far as to suggest an itinerary in his novel, “Tereza Batista: Home From the Wars.”

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IN Portuguese, “amado” means “beloved,” and in more than a score of novels, the Brazilian writer Jorge Amado made clear his eternal passion for Salvador da Bahia, the city that took him in as a teenage boarding student and became his home. Salvador, in turn, loved him back, and even now, more than six years after his death, Amado’s exuberant spirit, aesthetic and characters seem to permeate the streets of the place he described both as “the most mysterious and beautiful of the world’s cities” and “the most languid of women.”

For visitors keen to experience those tropical mysteries, Amado went so far as to suggest an itinerary in his novel, “Tereza Batista: Home From the Wars.” He wanted tourists to see not just “our beaches, our churches embroidered with gold, the blue Portuguese ceramic tiles, the Baroque, the picturesque popular festivals and the fetishist ceremonies,” but also “the putridity of the slum houses on stilts and the whorehouses.”

That kind of dichotomy was typical of Amado, who, especially in his early years, tended to see everything as pairs of opposites: good and evil, black and white, sacred and profane, rich and poor. He even managed to impose that Manichean vision on the geography of Salvador, scorning Rua Chile, then the main commercial street of the upper city, and its well-to-do clientele in favor of the lower city and the port, where sailors, longshoremen, beggars, prostitutes and grifters saturated him in “the greasy black mystery of the city of Salvador da Bahia.”

Nowadays, the heart of the lower city has been restored and gentrified. The beach where the homeless street urchins of his 1937 novel, “Captains of the Sands,” struggled to survive has disappeared, replaced by a yacht club and a small mall that includes art galleries and a restaurant, Trapiche de Adelaide, that not only may be Salvador’s finest but also offers a magnificent view of the bay.

But at the noisy, stifling Mercado Municipal just down the road, the flavor of the old days lingers. Inside, stalls sell not just T-shirts but also herbs, magic potions, aphrodisiacs and amulets. On the plaza out front, con artists perform card tricks, folk poets known as repentistas and cordelistas recite or sing their verses, and practitioners of capoeira perform their graceful mixture of dance and martial arts to the twang of the single metal string of the gourd-like berimbau.

The link between the scruffy lower city and the imposing “black mass on the green mountain above the sea,” as Amado referred to the upper city in “Pastors of the Night,” is the 191-foot Lacerda Elevator, which was itself featured in “Sea of Death,” published in 1936. At its upper terminus, the elevator opens onto a square that provides a sweeping view of the city and the bay.

But at its lower terminus, the elevator is surrounded by funky bars that play axé, pagode and other styles of music favored by the Brazilian working class. Every time I exit, I think of “The Two Deaths of Quincas Wateryell” and its description of a bar “full of glum clusters of young guys, joyful sailors, women down on their luck and truck drivers with long hauls scheduled.”

As much as its people, Salvador’s streets and landmarks are characters in Amado’s novels. Salvador overwhelmed the author with its sights, sounds and smells. “In Bahia, popular culture enters through the eyes, the ears, the mouth (so rich, colorful and tasty the culinary arts) and penetrates all the senses,” he wrote in “Bay of All Saints,” a guidebook first published in 1945 that is unfortunately out of print.

Amado’s own presence is perhaps most palpably felt at the museum on Pelourinho Square that bears his name. Inside are numerous photographs of the novelist, at work and with his family, at home in Salvador and abroad, where he lived in reluctant exile for some years. The permanent exhibition also displays first-edition covers, in Portuguese and in translation into more than 40 languages, of each of his novels.

As you sit on the museum steps, the most famous scene from Amado’s best-known novel, “Dona Flor and Her Two Husbands,” also made into a movie in the 1970s, comes readily to mind. Even with the cobblestoned plaza cluttered by touts trying to sell trinkets to sunburned tourists in Bermuda shorts, the image of Flor walking with Teodoro on one side and the naked ghost of Vadinho on the other seems an indelible part of the landscape.

Just across the square, at Largo do Pelourinho 68, is the boardinghouse where Amado lived when he first came to Salvador from the provincial town of Ilhéus in 1928 at the age of 16 to study. Not coincidentally, an early novel written in Socialist Realist style, “Sweat,” is set in the building, which today is painted pastel green and has a small plaque that acknowledges its importance in Amado’s intellectual formation.

Legend says that Salvador has 365 churches, one for each day of the year, and each meant to be more spectacular than the last. The most dazzling of the lot is probably São Francisco, a frothy Baroque confection a couple of blocks from Pelourinho that is awash in gold arabesques and is connected to a monastery whose walls are decorated with gorgeous 18th-century Portuguese tiles.

But Amado always felt a special affection for the more austere Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário dos Pretos because of its links to the historic suffering of the blacks who make up the majority of the city’s population. The church is at the foot of Pelourinho Square, where in colonial days slaves were flogged, and Amado, sometimes unjustly accused by his critics of favoring exoticism and sentimentality over substance, never forgot that.

“The church was all blue in the late afternoon, the church of the slaves in the square where the whipping post and pillories had been erected,” he wrote in “Tent of Miracles,” published in 1969. “Is that the reflection of the sun or a smear of blood on the cobblestones? So much blood has run over these stones, so many cries of pain rose to heaven, so many supplications and curses resonated on the walls of that blue church.”

Food was also essential to Amado’s world, as the title of “Gabriela, Clove and Cinnamon” clearly conveys. Amado’s humble heroines are frequently of the belief that the surest way to a man’s heart is through his stomach, and more often than not they are proven right. “If after confronting all the dangers and obstacles that life offers, you don’t eat well, then what’s the point?” one character observes in “The Violent Land.”

Walking down the slanted sidewalk of Pelourinho Square last year, I caught the unmistakable fragrance of dende, or palm oil, and peanut sauce wafting from a doorway. It turned out to be the entrance to the Museu da Gastronomia Bahiana, which opened in 2006 and offers a solid introduction to the culinary delights of Amado’s novels. Just downstairs from a restaurant operated by Senac, a government training school for hotel workers, waiters and chefs, the museum is divided into three sections. The first displays the ingredients of typical Bahian dishes, along with the utensils required to make them and photographs of the final results, while the second is a store that sells cookbooks, sweets and compotes.

The third, of course, is the restaurant itself, which is not just a tribute to the cuisine that inspired Amado but also an invitation to gluttony. For 28 reals ($15.56 at 1.8 reals to the dollar), visitors can eat as much as they want of the 40 or so dishes displayed on long serving tables. The choices range from vatapá, a savory paste made from shrimp, coconut milk, palm oil and nuts, to quindim, an intensely yellow custard that combines egg yolks, sugar and ground coconut. Drinks are served by women wearing the turbans and flouncy dresses of Candomblé priestesses.

Like Pedro Archanjo, the hero of his novel “Tent of Miracles,” Amado was a lapsed Communist and atheist who eventually became so involved in Candomblé, the African-derived religion that is Brazil’s equivalent to voodoo, that he became an obá, or honorary high priest in the cult of Xangô, the deity of lightning and justice. Candomblé beliefs and practices pervade Amado’s novels and motivate many of his characters, especially in “The War of the Saints,” the last of his great novels, published in 1988.

“In this land of Bahia, saints and enchanted beings perform miracles and sorcery,” Amado wrote, “and not even Marxist ethnologists are surprised to see a carving from a Catholic altar turn into a bewitching mulatto woman at the hour of dusk.”

The terreiros, or open-air Candomblé sanctuaries, which Amado frequented back when they were illegal and subject to police raids, now flourish and are open to visitors. Some hotels organize trips to what they advertise as Candomblé ceremonies. But these tend either to be bogus or at the very least watered down.

A better option is to make arrangements with one of the established terreiros to attend a worship service and, since most of the tabernacles are in poor, outlying neighborhoods, hire a taxi. Amado was fond of both the Casa Branca group in the Vasco da Gama neighborhood and Ilê Axé Opô Afonjá, in the Cabula area, which the Brazilian government designated a national treasure in 2001.

Both are good choices for visitors. Ilê Axé Opô Afonjá was “my house,” Amado wrote, where “I have my chair at the side of the high priestess and at times am her spokesman.” He also urged visitors to be sure to ask their own orixá, or divinity, for protection just as soon as they arrived in Salvador.

“The pathways of Salvador are guarded by Exu, one of the most important orixás in the liturgy of Candomblé,” he wrote in “Bay of All Saints.” But Exu is often confused with the devil, so “woe be unto those who disembark with malevolent intentions, with a heart of hatred or envy, or stop here tinged by violence or acrimony.”

For most of the last decades of his life, Amado lived at Rua Alagoinhas 33, in the Rio Vermelho neighborhood, far from both the lower and upper city. At one point in “Dona Flor,” a character complains that “the worst address can only be Rio Vermelho, with its isolation and impostors, an end-of-the-world, almost suburban kind of place, and so ordinary.”

But in fact the area is charming, and the street on which Amado lived is quiet and palm shaded. The house itself is decorated with blue and white tiles with images of birds and fruit, and has a white tower with a statue and Candomblé emblem honoring Xangô. After Amado’s death on Aug. 6, 2001, his ashes were scattered in the house’s garden.

“The years of freedom I spent on the streets of Salvador da Bahia, mixing with the people of the docks, of the markets and fairs” and other somewhat disreputable and picaresque locations were “my best university,” Amado said when he was inducted into the Brazilian Academy of Letters in 1961. Or as one of the characters in “Captains of the Sands” muses, “there is nothing better in the world than to walk like this, at random, through the streets of Bahia.”

VISITOR INFORMATION

HOW TO GET THERE

Once a week, TAM Airlines, the Brazilian carrier, operates a direct flight between Miami and Salvador da Bahia. The plane leaves on Sunday morning and arrives 7 hours and 45 minutes later; a round-trip ticket costs about $1,300. During the rest of the week, though, visitors must fly overnight to Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo and make connections there, adding both time and cost to the trip.

WHERE TO STAY

The Hotel Tropical (Avenida 7 de Setembro 1537; 55-71-2105-2000; www.tropicalhotel.com.br) is conveniently located near both the downtown area in the upper city and the main in-town beaches, and is decorated with murals by Carybé, who illustrated many of Jorge Amado’s novels. There are 253 rooms, and a double, with breakfast and taxes included, is 239 reals ($132.78 at 1.8 reals to the dollar).

Of the many hotels on the beachfront, the Othon Palace (at Avenida Oceânica 2294 in Ondina; 55-71-2103-7100; www.othon.com.br) is a personal favorite. It’s within walking distance of several landmarks and fine restaurants, is only a short cab ride away from the lower city, and has 278 rooms with rustic-style furniture and verandahs, most offering spectacular views of the sea and a nearby lighthouse. Double rooms start at about 200 reals.

If you’re willing to splurge, the Convento do Carmo (Rua do Carmo 1; 55-71-3327-8400; www.pousadas.pt) is definitely the place to go. The main building, recently and luxuriously restored, dates from 1586 and is walking distance from Pelourinho. There is a splendid restaurant and a museum, large courtyard and gardens, and the rooms are decorated in an elegant colonial style. But expect to pay a high price: double rooms start at 680 reals.

WHERE TO EAT

In what was once a dockside warehouse, Trapiche de Adelaide (Avenida do Contorno 2 in the lower city; 55-71-3326-2211) offers a beautiful view of the bay and has food to match. The menu emphasizes local ingredients prepared with French delicacy: a typical meal might start with a soup of cassava and lobster, progress to a main course of shrimp in mustard sauce garnished with almonds, pineapple and apricots and conclude with tropical fruits or ice cream made from the same. Lunch or dinner for two, with a caipirinha, a cocktail made from sugar cane liquor, is about 200 reals.

At the Mercado Modelo, two restaurants outdoors on the second-story verandah are good places to have lunch while enjoying the view. Camafeu de Oxóssi (55-71-3242-9751) and Maria de São Pedro (55-71-3242-5262) are bitter rivals, but have essentially the same menu and prices, featuring regional dishes such as xin xin, a chicken and shrimp stew, and bobó de camarão , a shrimp dish. Lunch for two with a caipirinha, is about 60 reals.

Varal da Dadá (Rua Teixeira Mendes 55, Alto das Pombas in Federação; 55-71-3332-1777) is exactly the kind of informal neighborhood place that Jorge Amado frequented, with the added lure of spectacular regional cuisine. Dadá is the nickname of a local cook famous for her moquecas, or fish stews, bobó de camarão and sweet desserts, and the restaurant that bears her name operates in the backyard of her home, Tuesday through Sunday. Lunch or dinner for two with beer or a caipirinha runs about 75 reals.

MUSIC

Many of Brazil’s biggest pop stars, including Caetano Veloso, Gilberto Gil, Maria Bethânia, Gal Costa and Carlinhos Brown, are from Salvador, and even when it’s not Carnival time, Salvador seems to be a festival of musical styles ranging from axé and tropicalista pop to samba-reggae and funk. The Olodum drum choir, which has worked with Paul Simon and Michael Jackson, rehearses most Tuesday nights at Pelourinho Square. Admission is 60 reals; call (55-71) 3321-5010 to confirm that practice is on.

Capoeira is a mixture of martial arts and dance developed by slaves brought from Africa, and is extremely musical. There are academies that teach the art form and put on shows for the public, such as the Fundação Mestre Bimba (Rua Gregorio de Mattos 51 in Pelourinho; 55-71-3322-5082), and on Friday nights capoeira is also performed at the Terreiro de Jesus, near Pelourinho.

LARRY ROHTER, The Times’s bureau chief in Rio de Janeiro from 1999 until August 2007, is on leave, writing a book about Brazil.

Subject: Art galleries & museums; Baroque era; Elevators & escalators; Martial arts; Restaurants

Location: Brazil

People: Amado, Jorge

Identifier / keyword: Gospel Music Amado, Jorge Travel and Vacations ALL SAINTS Books and Literature Portugal Writing and Writers Rohter, Larry Brazil Roman Catholic Church Brick and Tile Salvador (Brazil) Vasco da Gama Christians and Christianity Art RELIGION AND CHURCHES Bahia (Brazil) Restaurants Cooking and Cookbooks Chile women Adelaide (Australia) Boats and Boating Africa Poetry and Poets APPAREL Desserts Photography Museums

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 24, 2008

Section: travel

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2222654696

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Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-10

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 86 of 313

February 24, 2008 (Page 87 of 301)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]24 Feb 2008: 89.

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Abstract: None available.

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Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 48

Issue: 305

First page: 89

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 24, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249072490

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Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Feb 24, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 87 of 313

Students 'steel' the show

Author: Evans, Candice

Publication info: Daily Times ; Salisbury, Md. [Salisbury, Md]26 Feb 2008.

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John Syphard, a SDSA social studies teacher, started the school's steel drums program -- "Steel the Show" consists of about 35 students in grades six through eight -- nearly five years ago, which evolved from a juggling program for students who wanted non-traditional classes.

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Staff Writer

FRANKFORD -- The boys, dressed in oversized "Trinidad & Tobago" tropical tees, bobbed their heads as the mallets hit the steeldrums.

Nine students from Southern Delaware School of the Arts and Indian River High School took a 10-day field trip to the Caribbean islands of Trinidad and Tobago. The steelpan -- better known as steeldrums on the Eastern Shore -- originated from the two islands and continues to play a major role in their culture.

"They are 10 times better than us," said Drew Stewart, 13, who attended Trinidad's Carnival -- a Catholic pre-Lenten festival similar to those celebrated in New Orleans, Brazil, Venice and other parts of Europe -- during their Jan. 26 to Feb. 5 stay. "The bands practice all day long. They know exactly what they are doing."

John Syphard, a SDSA social studies teacher, started the school's steel drums program -- "Steel the Show" consists of about 35 students in grades six through eight -- nearly five years ago, which evolved from a juggling program for students who wanted non-traditional classes.

"I thought it would be a cool thing to play at the beach," said Syphard, who also created a private steelband, "Plenty Problems," made up of 15 students. Throughout the summer, the band plays in more than 100 activities on the Lower Shore, including wedding receptions, beach parties and fundraisers.

Money earned from paid events are put toward the Trinidad trip so dedicated steelpan students can go free of charge, Syphard said. This provides motivation for the teens to continue playing the instrument long after they leave the middle school.

Stewart, accompanied by eight other band members -- Aaron Pepe, Mitch Abrams, Ben Dispoto, Kyle Marvel, Dillon Baker, Jung Son, Robbie Syphard and Alex Gunderman -- also attended Trinidad's annual Panorama, a monthlong steelband competition judged in rounds and culminating in a national final.

More than 50 bands composed of about 100 players compete every year. One band, Golden Hands, made up of students from San Fernando, Trinidad, has become Steel the Show's sister group, said Son, 14. This year, they learned the song "Thunder Coming," which proved challenging for the Sussex County students.

"It wasn't too hard," said Pepe and Abrams, almost in unison.

"Well, the timing was difficult -- the off beat," Dispoto added.

The steel orchestra -- which evolved out of earlier musical practices of Trinidad's enslaved Africans and Afro-descendants -- consists of an assortment of tenor and double tenor pans, double seconds, guitar pans, quads, cellos and bass pans. The instruments can make the musical sounds of an orchestra range.

Even though the duration of the boys' trip included rainforests, waterfalls and blue-water beaches -- steel drums were the highlight, Marvel said.

"I learned a lot about the drums, (Trinidad's) culture and what I need to work on to get better," Stewart said.

cevans@dmg.gannett.com

410-749-7171, Ext. 234

Subject: Middle schools; Students

Publication title: Daily Times; Salisbury, Md.

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 26, 2008

Section: LIFESTYLE

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Salisbury, Md.

Country of publication: United States, Salisbury, Md.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 440355094

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Copyright: Copyright 2008 - Daily Times Salisbury, MD - All Rights Reverved

Last updated: 2017-11-16

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 88 of 313

Names in the news

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune News Service ; Washington [Washington]26 Feb 2008: 1.

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Sen. Barack Obama, asked by "Entertainment Tonight" who should play him in a movie, didn't hesitate. "Will Smith and I have talked about this, because he has the ears," the candidate told "ET" for a report to air tonight. "He's better looking than me, but we both have those."

The voice of Terry Gross, host of NPR's "Fresh Air," turns up Sunday on "The Simpsons". Her role is top secret, but it's likely to be related to a subplot in which Homer receives a fancy loaner car after Marge damages their old car in an accident, and he grows attached to it. Think "car radio."

"I am playing a fictional Egyptian pharaoh that comes to life," [Hank Azaria] tells MTV. "I'm the villain in the movie and have all sorts of nasty plans for modern society, and poor [Ben Stiller] gets caught in the middle of it."

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So, who should it be? Will or Denzel? Denzel or Will?

Sen. Barack Obama, asked by "Entertainment Tonight" who should play him in a movie, didn't hesitate. "Will Smith and I have talked about this, because he has the ears," the candidate told "ET" for a report to air tonight. "He's better looking than me, but we both have those."

But citizens disagree. USAToday.com says in a recent ZogbySvedka poll that 33 percent of folks chose Denzel Washington. Smith came in second, followed by Don Cheadle. As for John McCain? Tommy Lee Jones beat out Clint Eastwood with 36 percent of the votes.

In a shocking turn of events, when asked who should play Hillary Clinton in a movie (would that be the same flick?) folks didn't unanimously vote for Angelina Jolie.

The winner was Martha Stewart with 38 percent of the vote. Ellen DeGeneres was second with 21 percent. Reese Witherspoon and Madonna limped far, far behind with 8 percent each.

A 'FRESH' GUEST STAR

The voice of Terry Gross, host of NPR's "Fresh Air," turns up Sunday on "The Simpsons". Her role is top secret, but it's likely to be related to a subplot in which Homer receives a fancy loaner car after Marge damages their old car in an accident, and he grows attached to it. Think "car radio."

SURGERY FOR NAOMI

Naomi Campbell, 37, has undergone successful emergency abdominal surgery at a hospital in Sao Paulo, Brazil, to remove a small cyst, her rep Tuesday said.

"She is now resting and is looking forward to getting back to work," Jeff Raymond said. "She would like to thank the doctors who have kindly looked after her."

Campbell was reportedly admitted to Sirio Libanes Hospital Sunday night. Hospital officials refused to discuss details but confirmed Campbell was being treated by top experts in the treatment of infectious diseases.

The British supermodel is big on Brazil. Earlier this month, she celebrated Carnival in Salvador.

STILLER TO RETURN TO 'MUSEUM'

MTV.com reports that Ben Stiller has signed to star in a sequel to his family adventure tale, "Night at the Museum." The flick will costar Hank Azaria and Amy Adams.

"I am playing a fictional Egyptian pharaoh that comes to life," Azaria tells MTV. "I'm the villain in the movie and have all sorts of nasty plans for modern society, and poor Ben Stiller gets caught in the middle of it."

Original cast members Owen Wilson, Steve Coogan and Ricky Gervais are slated to return for the sequel.

PARIS GETS HER OWN MADDEN

The adamantine spiritual bond that unites film actress Paris Hilton and reality-show star Nicole Richie in sisterly love has become even stronger. Britain's Daily Mail reports that Paris has begun dating her best friend's boyfriend's twin brother, Benji Madden, who rocks out with rock band Good Charlotte. Benji is the twin brother of Nicole's man, Joel Madden. It was fate: Paris met Benji shortly after the guitarist dumped his Aussie fiancee, Sophie Monk.

Meanwhile, Us Weekly says Paris is shopping around a new reality show about ... herself. Reportedly the show will follow Paris as she shops for a new friend and confidante.

DOH! IT HAD MORE THAN ONE SONG?!

Maxim magazine, a purveyor of texts about "girls, sports, sex, technology and everything cool," has apologized for publishing a negative review of Black Crowes' new album by a critic who had, um, like, not listened to the whole CD.

Band members complained when they saw the review in Maxim's March issue (it gave "Warpaint" 2 1/2 stars out of five). The Crowes said the writer could not have heard the entire album, since only one song from the CD was available in advance.

Band manager Pete Angelus said the magazine called the review an "educated guess."

Maxim editorial director James Kaminsky on Tuesday apologized, saying the writer had ignored magazine policy which states that star ratings can only be assigned to albums which have been heard in their entirety.

ROCK HALL OF FAME INDUCTIONS

The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame Foundation on Tuesday announced the names of the stars who will induct this year's inductees at the foundation's March 10 extravaganza at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York.

And it contains a doozy: Justin Timberlake will induct Madonna.

Other inductors include Lou Reed (for Leonard Cohen), Tom Hanks (for The Dave Clark Five), Billy Joel (for John Mellencamp), and Jerry Butler (for Philly heroes Kenny Gamble and Leon Huff).

(Philadelphia Inquirer news services and Web sites contributed to this report.)(c) 2008, The Philadelphia Inquirer.Visit Philadelphia Online, the Inquirer's World Wide Web site, at http:// www.philly.com/

Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Credit: The Philadelphia Inquirer

People: Washington, Denzel Campbell, Naomi

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune News Service; Washington

First page: 1

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 26, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

ProQuest document ID: 456838990

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Copyright: (c) 2008, The Philadelphia Inquirer. Distributed by Knight Ridder/Tribune Information Services.

Last updated: 2018-02-21

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 89 of 313

February 27, 2008 (Page 2 of 86)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]27 Feb 2008: 2.

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Abstract: None available.

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Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 62

First page: 2

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 27, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2226194303

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Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Feb 27, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-16

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 90 of 313

February 27, 2008 (Page 4 of 76)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]27 Feb 2008: 4.

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Abstract: None available.

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Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 48

Issue: 308

First page: 4

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 27, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249436061

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Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Feb 27, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-30

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 91 of 313

JACKSON'S A THRILLER: [BROWARD METRO EDITION]

Publication info: South Florida Sun - Sentinel ; Fort Lauderdale, Fla. [Fort Lauderdale, Fla]27 Feb 2008: A.4.

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Abstract:

Photo(s) { SB; Throwing shapes: Janet Jackson performs on ABC's Good Morning America on Tuesday, also the release date for her new album, Discipline. Critics have given the album, Jackson's first on the Island Def Jam label, a more positive review than her previous album. AP photo/Peter Kramer Cyrus Madonna Seinfeld [Naomi Campbell]

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SUPERMODEL CAMPBELL HAS SURGERY IN BRAZIL

Naomi Campbell was hospitalized in Sao Paulo, Brazil, for the removal of a small cyst, her publicist said Tuesday.

The 37-year-old British supermodel, a frequent visitor to Brazil who earlier this month celebrated Carnival in the northeastern city of Salvador, was treated at Sirio Libanes Hospital. She underwent successful emergency abdominal surgery, gynecologist Jose Aristodemo Pinotti said.

"I cannot reveal what Naomi had, nor how serious her condition was, but I can say I operated on her yesterday and that she is completely cured," Pinotti said.

The hospital said David Uip, one of Brazil's leading experts in the treatment of infectious diseases, was also caring for Campbell.

MILEY CYRUS, DAD TO HOST AWARDS SHOW

Billy Ray Cyrus and daughter Miley will host and perform at the 2008 Country Music Television Music Awards in Nashville.

The seventh annual awards show will air live April 14 on CMT. Alan Jackson, Brad Paisley, Carrie Underwood, Sugarland, Taylor Swift and Toby Keith also will perform.

Cyrus, 46, made it big on the country and pop charts in 1992 with his hit Achy Breaky Heart. These days, he plays Miley's father on the 15-year-old actress-singer's Hannah Montana TV show.

Tickets to the show will be a tough find. Miley's last concert at Nashville's Sommet Center sold out and commanded high prices in the secondary ticket market, much like her other stops nationwide.

MADONNA TO JOIN ROCK HALL OF FAME

Justin Timberlake will induct Madonna into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

The Sexyback singer has been working with the Material Mom on her upcoming album, expected to be released this year.

Other inductees March 10 at the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in Manhattan will be Leonard Cohen, John Mellencamp, The Dave Clark Five, The Ventures and Little Walter.

Tom Hanks will induct The Dave Clark Five, the '60s British pop band behind the hit Glad All Over. Billy Joel will pay tribute to Mellencamp, and Lou Reed will honor Cohen.

SEINFELD LAWYERS TRY TO END COOKBOOK SUIT

Jerry Seinfeld was just joking when he compared a woman accusing his wife of plagiarism to the killers of John Lennon and the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., his lawyers said.

In a filing in U.S. District Court in Manhattan, attorneys for the former sitcom star asked a judge to throw out a lawsuit filed by Missy Chase Lapine against Seinfeld and his wife, the Daily News reported in Tuesday editions.

"Jerry Seinfeld made overstatements of opinion for comic effect," the comedian's lawyers said.

Lapine is seeking unspecified compensatory and punitive damages for copyright and trademark infringement, and made slander and defamation claims. Both Lapine and Jessica Seinfeld have published cookbooks focusing on making healthy, kid-friendly meals.

- Wire reports

ON THIS DATE

1922 : The Supreme Court unanimously upheld the 19th Amendment that guaranteed the right of women to vote.

1951: The 22nd Amendment, limiting a president to two terms, was ratified.

1960: The U.S. Olympic hockey team beat the Soviets 3-2 at the Winter Games in Squaw Valley, Calif.

1973: Members of the American Indian Movement occupied Wounded Knee, S.D., site of the 1890 massacre of Sioux men, women and children.

TODAY'S

BIRTHDAYS Actress Elizabeth Taylor, 76; consumer advocate and presidential candidate Ralph Nader, 74; r&b singer Chilli (TLC), 37; Chelsea Clinton, 28; singer Josh Groban, 27.

Illustration

Photo(s) { SB; Caption: Throwing shapes: Janet Jackson performs on ABC's Good Morning America on Tuesday, also the release date for her new album, Discipline. Critics have given the album, Jackson's first on the Island Def Jam label, a more positive review than her previous album. AP photo/Peter Kramer Cyrus Madonna Seinfeld Campbell

People: Campbell, Naomi Cyrus, Miley Seinfeld, Jerry Lapine, Missy Chase

Publication title: South Florida Sun - Sentinel; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Pages: A.4

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 27, 2008

Section: News

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: BRIEF

ProQuest document ID: 387537996

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/387537996?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by the Sun-Sentinel)

Last updated: 2017-11-09

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 92 of 313

Maurice Zarmati Named President & CEO of Costa Cruise Lines - North America

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: PR Newswire ; New York [New York]28 Feb 2008.

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Abstract:

Costa Cruises has been certified by RINA (Italian Shipping Register) with the BEST4, an integrated system of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards governing social accountability (SA 8000, issued in 2001), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 1996), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, 2000).

Links: Find it @ FSU

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MIAMI, Feb. 28 /PRNewswire/ -- Maurice Zarmati has been named president and CEO of Costa Cruise Lines - North America. Zarmati, who is currently vice president of sales for Carnival Cruise Lines, will assume his new role beginning March 31, 2008. An accomplished sales executive, Zarmati has been with Carnival Cruise Lines since 1972, leading one of the largest and most successful sales teams in North America.

In his new role as president and CEO of Costa Cruise Lines - North America, Zarmati will report directly to Gianni Onorato, president of Costa Crociere, and will be responsible for all sales and marketing efforts for Costa's North and Central American regions. This includes sales development, marketing, revenue management, finance, human resources and passenger services. In the interim before Zarmati begins his position, Joni L. Rein, vice president of sales development and Ruben Perez, vice president of passenger services, will oversee all main functionalities of the Costa North America office.

"Maurice is well known and respected throughout the cruise industry for his numerous accomplishments and successes, so naturally we're thrilled to have him lead up the efforts for our North and Central American markets, which are key to the continued growth and success of the overall Costa Crociere brand," said Onorato. "Maurice brings nearly four decades of experience to the role, having led one of the biggest and best sales teams in North America with our sister company, Carnival Cruise Lines. We look forward to welcoming him to the Costa family in the next month."

Costa Cruises is Italy's and Europe's number one cruise vacation line. For the past 60 years its ships have sailed around the world, offering the best in Italian style, hospitality and cuisine and providing a dream vacation with the utmost in terms of fun and relaxation. In 2007 over 1.1 million Guests chose to cruise with Costa, a record for the European cruise industry. The Company's 12 fleet members, each with her own distinctive characteristics and unique style, all fly the Italian flag and sail to 250 destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, the Caribbean, South America, the United Arab Emirates, the Far East and the Indian Ocean. Five more vessels have been commissioned and will enter service by 2012. Costa Cruises has been certified by RINA (Italian Shipping Register) with the BEST4, an integrated system of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards governing social accountability (SA 8000, issued in 2001), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 1996), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, 2000). All Costa's ships have been awarded RINA's voluntary "Green Star" notation based on the highest environmental protection standards. Costa Cruises is also an official partner of the WWF for the protection of the marine ecoregions of the Mediterranean, the Greater Antilles and Brazil.

SOURCE Costa Cruises

Credit: Costa Cruises

Subject: Cruise lines; Marketing

Location: North America

Publication title: PR Newswire; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 28, 2008

Dateline: MIAMI

Publisher: PR Newswire Association LLC

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 448740831

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/448740831?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright PR Newswire Association LLC Feb 28, 2008

Last updated: 2010-11-04

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 93 of 313

Q4 2007 AmBev - Companhia de Bebidas Das Americas Earnings Conference Call - Final

Publication info: Fair Disclosure Wire ; Linthicum [Linthicum]28 Feb 2008.

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Abstract: None available.

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OPERATOR: Good afternoon, and thank you for waiting. We would like to welcome everyone to AmBev's Fourth Quarter 2007 Earnings Conference Call. Today with us we have Mr. Luiz Fernando Edmond, the CEO for Latin America; Mr. Bernardo Paiva, CEO for North America; Mr. Graham Staley, CFO and Investor Relations Officer; and Mr. Joao Castro Neves, CEO for Quinsa.

We would like to inform you that this event is being recorded. (OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS).

Before proceeding, let me mention that forward-looking statements are being made under the safe harbor of the Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1996. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs and assumptions of AmBev's management and on information currently available to the Company. They involve risks, uncertainties, and assumptions because they relate to future events and therefore depend on circumstances that may or may not occur in the future. Investors should understand that general economic conditions, industry conditions, and other operating factors could also affect the future results of AmBev and could cause results to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements.

Now I'll turn the conference over to Mr. Graham Staley. Mr. Staley, you may begin your conference.

GRAHAM STALEY, CFO AND IR OFFICER, AMBEV - COMPANHIA DE BEBIDAS DAS AMERICAS: Thank you, Nelson, and good morning, everyone, or good afternoon to those of you in Europe. I'm pleased to be with you today to discuss our fourth quarter results. I'll start the call by sharing a brief overview of the quarter, as usual, and then hand over to Luis Fernando, Joao, and Bernardo, who will provide you with an overview of our results in Brazil, HILA-ex, Quinsa, and Canada. I will close by providing more specifics regarding the fourth quarter financials.

Before I start, I would just like to remind you that all numbers are in Brazilian GAAP and that the percent exchanges used in this presentation are on an organic basis, consistent with the new reporting format initiated in Q3.

So let's get to the results. During the fourth quarter our consolidated EBITDA reached R$2.8 billion, which represents a 24.3% growth compared to the fourth quarter of 2006. On a full-year basis, we delivered almost R$8.7 billion in EBITDA, a growth of 16% over 2006, driven by beer volume growth of 4.6% and CSD and NANC volume growth of 9%.

Our earnings per share growth, excluding goodwill amortization, was 11.3% for the quarter and 15.5% for the full year.

The Brazilian business delivered a very strong result in Q4, with beer volume growing 7.9% and CSD and NANC volume growing by 17.1%. This led to an EBITDA growth of 28.1% for the quarter and 16.8% for the full year.

We're also pleased with our Quinsa operation, which saw EBITDA growth of 25.5% on the back of beer volume growth of 7.6% and CSD and NANC volume growth of 14.6%.

In Canada, despite the tough competitive environment, domestic volumes grew by 1.1%, resulting in a 5.3% EBITDA growth.

HILA-ex, had a loss of R$3.5 million in the fourth quarter, but the region improved profitability in the year by R$42 million.

Our combined operations delivered net income of R$1.1 billion, marginally down on fourth quarter 2006. And I'll comment further on net income at the end of this presentation.

Obviously, a very strong end to the year, and I'll now hand over to Luiz Fernando as we start to look a little deeper into the results of each of the operations.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND, CEO LATIN AMERICA, AMBEV - COMPANHIA DE BEBIDAS DAS AMERICAS: Thank you, Graham. Good morning, everyone. I will now provide you with details regarding the Brazilian and the HILA-ex operations.

Starting with Beer Brazil, we are happy to announce volume growth for the quarter of 7.9%, which yielded 5.5% volume growth for the year. We ended the year with 68.6% market share in December, which represents nine months of consecutive share growth, recovering most of the loss suffered at the beginning of the year.

For the whole of 2007, market share finished at 67.8%, which is 100 basis points lower than 2006. In January 2008, share fell 0.4 percentage points following price increases which began to be implemented in December. As in previous years, share was also impacted in January by supermarket channel seasonality. We are tracking the market and responding appropriately to ensure we do not suffer the same sort of share losses we experienced last year.

Our Beer net revenues per hectoliter in Brazil reached R$145.8, a growth of 6.9% when compared to the R$137.8 in the fourth quarter of 2006. This increase reflects our initiatives of revenue management, as well as the continued excellent performance of our premium brands, which grew more than 2.5 times as quickly as our mainstream brands. Though margin is lower than in prior years, we continue our strategy of expanding our direct distribution network and consolidating our third-party (inaudible) into our multi-brand network.

Positive impacts from our hedge arrangements, as previously reported, helped to offset pressure for labor cost inflation, higher raw materials prices, and package and mix. COGS per hectoliter grew only 1.8% for the quarter and 2.4% for the year.

SG&A was in line with our expectations, showing a decline of 0.9% for the quarter. Although there were some quarterly variations in the timing of marketing expense during 2007, SG&A for the full year, excluding depreciation and amortization, grew by 7.5%, reflecting volume growth, the increase of direct distribution, and inflation.

This strong volume performance and the timing of SG&A spend helped Beer EBITDA grow by 25.5% in the quarter, the EBITDA margin growing by 450 basis points, reaching a record 54.1%. Full-year EBITDA margins also surpassed the 50% mark for the first time, reaching 50.9%.

Turning to Brazil CSD and NANC, net revenues per hectoliter grew 4% on volumes 17% higher than last year, leading to a net revenue growth of almost 22%. It's important to mention that we experienced supply problems in one of our biggest CSD plants at the end of 2006, lowering the comparison for this year. We also benefited from the seasonality of H2OH, which is stronger in the first and fourth quarters, or the summer season, and from the launch of (inaudible), our new, innovative successful line extension.

Market share stood at 17.2% for the quarter, 40 basis points higher than last year and 20 basis points higher than Q3. January 2008 brought further good news with market share reaching a record high of 18%. The strong volumes, combined with anticipated hedging gains and the shift of some SG&A expenses from Q4 to Q3, as we discussed in Q3, is a very strong Q4.

EBITDA finished at 55.1%, higher than last year, with an EBITDA margin of 40.7%. The full-year result was an EBITDA increase of 28.8% and an EBITDA margin growth of 250 basis points to 37.1%.

Looking forward, we continue to see opportunity in the CSD business in terms of market share and profitability, and we will continue to invest in this segment.

We now have the largest pack size in the market-- we just launched a 3.3 liters-- and the flexibility in terms of pricing to react quickly when needed. We are well positioned for the future.

Let me now turn to HILA-ex. The region generated an EBITDA loss of R$3.5 million for the quarter and a R$20.1 million loss for the year. The beer business showed good volume growth of 8.9%, positively impacted by the successful launch of innovations in the Dominican Republic and Central America and good growth in Peru, but negatively impacted by challenges we have in Venezuela.

Beer EBITDA grew by R$1.7 million in Q4, benefiting from gains on the cost side and savings through ZBB initiatives.

The HILA-ex CSD business delivers more EBITDA improvement as we reposition our brands to better address some local market conditions. We continue to build our business in the HILA-ex markets. Beer volumes are growing, we are facing the fixed costs in the business-- we are reducing the fixed costs in the business, and (inaudible) EBITDA and cash flow (inaudible), giving us the confidence and flexibility to pursue our long-term goals.

It is always important to mention that, behind the numbers, we have a fantastic team that works hard to make that impossible dream happen. Our people are determined, focused, and know what and how to execute. They thrive on tough targets and never give up. Even when the trends are unfavorable or the market is moving against us, our people have the ability to close the gaps. This is the AmBev way and continues to be our greatest strength.

I'll now turn the call to Joao, who will talk about our Quinsa business.

JOAO CASTRO NEVES, CEO QUINSA, AMBEV - COMPANHIA DE BEBIDAS DAS AMERICAS: Thank you, Luiz, and good morning, everyone. Well, our region here continues to grow in the quarter, confirming the positive trends observed during the year and reaching outstanding full-year results.

Consolidated volumes increased 10.2% organically in the quarter based on the (inaudible) performance of the soft drinks business, which grew 14.6% on an organic basis and 7.6% organic growth in the year, motivated by higher volumes all over the region, except in Chile. Argentina, Bolivia, and Uruguay kept strong growth rates, while our business in Paraguay is showed an important recovery based on growing industry volumes.

Net revenues per hectoliter grew organically, both in beer and soft drinks. In the beer business, growth in revenues per hectoliter was motivated by strong performance of premium brands and some price increases implemented throughout the region. In the case of CSD, we benefited from price increases introduced in Argentina and the carryover of increases introduced by the end of 2006.

Our premium brands performed particularly well in Argentina, with outstanding performance in Stella Artois, dark beers, and local premium brands, in Bolivia with our premium brand (inaudible), and Chile with increased performance in sales by Stella Artois and our two recently launched dark Brahma beers.

(Inaudible) individual beer markets, Argentina posted its all-time record in the quarter in terms of volume, even despite the divesture of three brands due to antitrust requirements. The Company performed particularly well in the northern and central region of the country, gaining market share in a growing and competitive market.

The Bolivian business continued to post strong rates, despite an uncertain operating environment and some price increases introduced in the quarter. We took advantage of industry volume records with our market share remaining stable. We ended in the quarter the investment in capacity required at our Santa Cruz plant to meet the increasing demand of the past few years.

Chile has been our biggest challenge, where our volumes had a slight decline in the quarter, despite good performance in our premium brands. Nevertheless, we have been able to increase our EBITDA and EBITDA margin in the country through specific revenue management actions. Our recently launched Stella Artois brand in can and one-third liter format continues to increase share within our portfolio, strengthening our premium brands.

The beer market in Paraguay had a strong recovery in the quarter after experiencing a decline in the first three quarters of the year. The Company benefited from higher market volumes and launch of the Labatt brand to compete with other imported beers based on focused distribution and advertising.

Our beer business in Uruguay has also performed very well, reflecting volume growth with stable market share and a strong performance by our premium brand Patricia.

In soft drinks, we had an excellent quarter in terms of volume, with market share gains in growing markets both in Argentina and in Uruguay. In Argentina, the Pepsi brand grew within the "A" segment of the business, while the H2OH! brand also strengthened its position within the flavored waters. In Uruguay, besides the outstanding performance of the Pepsi brand, the Company benefited from the comparison with 2006 when it experienced a month-long distribution strike, which severely affected our volumes in 2006.

Solid growth rates in the main markets where we operate, together with focused revenue management and market execution represented an EBITDA organic growth of 25.5% in the quarter. Our full-year results confirmed this growth trend, having organically increased our volumes by 9.7% and our EBITDA by 22.3%, making us one of the fastest growing units of the Group.

I would like to end my comments by saying that I'm very excited with the outstanding performance we had in 2007 and about our prospects for continued growth. We face tough challenges in 2008 as we did in 2007 due to unstable environments and some cost pressures, but I'm very confident our margin will continue to grow by taking advantage of the opportunities that appear and the consolidation of best practices implemented during 2007.

I'd like to thank and congratulate the Quinsa team for impressive results. We're in the process of developing a strong ownership of culture, and the level of talent in our zone allow us to continue to (inaudible).

I'll now invite Bernardo to take over.

BERNARDO PAIVA, CEO NORTH AMERICA, AMBEV - COMPANHIA DE BEBIDAS DAS AMERICAS: Thank you, Joao, and hello, everyone. First of all, I would like to say how pleased I am to have the opportunity to manage the North American business. I began my history with AmBev 17 years ago as a management trainee. Throughout this time I have worked in supply, finance, trade market, and sales, including as a sales executive for Brazil the last three years. In my first three months in North America, I have traveled across this big country here and in all the (inaudible), and I have met a few people from each of our businesses. And I'm very confident that I have a great team here. Miguel has built a very strong basis on which we can grow, and I would like to thank him for all of the things that he did here. It's my firm belief that North America has favorable prospects for the future.

Talking about the fourth quarter, Labatt had a very, very good EBITDA result, aligned with the track that we had in the last years, despite the tough environment that we have. In terms of market share, we posted a slight decline in our organic market share. However, the growth of the Lakeport brand allowed us to keep market share stable on a pro forma basis. The major driver that we had was the solid savings achieved in the industrial costs. Despite the higher efficiency in our breweries, Labatt's team continues to drive further improvement day in and day out.

Talking about the '07 total numbers, we delivered 6.4% of EBITDA growth with our market share slightly behind last year on a pro forma basis.

For '08, I do not think I need to tell you that we have a tough challenge ahead of us. Increased costs of inputs will put pressure on our gross margin. Although cost management is a strength of our business, and, for sure, it will continue to be, that will not be enough to compensate for the (inaudible) in costs. However, we have decided to maintain our strength and grow EBITDA every year, and we challenge ourselves to do that with no cost to our market share.

So, performance in the top line is a priority, and I will address this as follows. First, talking about our brands, we have the leading brands in the core premium, domestic premium, and discount segments. We'll certainly take full advantage of these trends. Look to the light and import segments. You have huge room to grow, and we are very confident our brands, Bud Light and Stella Artois, can be even more developed to grow in those segments. On these branding matters, I will count on the help of our new Marketing VP, who comes from North America with a successful record of 20 years of marketing experience, the level of which will form the in-depth insight of our business.

Second, talking about trade initiatives, we have room to improve the contact of our trade products and the effectiveness of these to drive volume, share, and brand (inaudible) at the point of sale.

Third - sales. We have an opportunity to review our process and the organization's structure in order to improve the execution of our programs and the relationships with our customers.

Finally, revenue management initiatives. We really think that this is a market that can make money here in a good way, and we really think we have to maintain like this across the market. So we will certainly look closely about any pricing issues that we can find. However, those things that we will think about pricing will never be allowed to come at the expense of market share.

Overall, in tough years like '08, the message we want to convey is that we need to pick a few choices and focus our resources and energy behind these choices to make them happen and deliver the results. I'm confident on the strength of our team here. We will win in Canada, growing business with no cost to our market share.

Now I would like to hand things back to Graham.

GRAHAM STALEY: Thanks a lot, Bernardo. In this final section, I would like to guide you through the main line between the reported EBIT of R$2.4 billion and the net income of R$1.1 billion, as shown on page 16 of our release. Other operational income and expense showed a net expense of R$335 million in the quarter compared to an expense of R$197 million in the same period last year. This difference is primarily explained by the higher goodwill amortization as a result of the acquisitions of Lakeport and Cintra in 2007, the change in the amortization curve for Labatt, and translation [lost] on foreign investments due to the appreciation of the real against the Canadian dollar and other Latin American currencies.

Our net debt stood at R$7.4 billion for the end of the year, flat compared to the situation at the end of the third quarter and 5.5% lower than 2006. Our net financial result was an expense of R$307 million, almost flat compared to Q4 last year. The full-year expense was R$1.25 billion, mainly impacted by higher interest expenses associated with the Quinsa bonds issued in the second half of 2006.

The provision for income tax and social contribution was an expense of R$500 million versus R$466 million last year. This increase is mainly the result of lower interest on capital, which is a tax deductible expense.

Net profit per (inaudible) shares in the quarter amounted to R$1.84 compared to R$1.85 in Q4 2006. However, when we exclude goodwill amortization, earnings per share rose 11.3% in the quarter and 15.5% in the full year.

Regarding our payout strategy, we retained the policy of distributing all excess cash generated if we cannot identify value-enhancing alternative uses within the business. This calendar year, we returned to shareholders approximately R$2 billion in dividends, including interest on owned capital, and R$3.1 billion in share buybacks, a total return to shareholders of approximately R$5.1 billion. We will continue to review the balance between dividends and share buybacks on an ongoing basis, taking into account market and industry norms and the impact on shareholder value.

In summary, AmBev is reporting strong Q4 and full-year 2007 results. Once again, our disciplined and consistent execution against our initiatives have resulted in a continuation of our track record of delivering EBITDA growth quarter after quarter.

Looking forward, commodity costs certainly post challenges for us, especially in Canada. However, for 2008, AmBev remains confident in its ability to maintain consolidated costs of sales per hectoliter below the level of inflation as a result of the productivity initiatives in place throughout the Company, plus the favorable results from our sugar and U.S. dollar hedges in Brazil.

In summary, we have a positive outlook for 2008 based on our robust business plans and our strong and consistent execution capability.

I'll now hand back to Nelson and open up for questions.

OPERATOR: Thank you. (OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS). Our first question is coming from Robert Ford of Merrill Lynch.

ROBERT FORD, ANALYST, MERRILL LYNCH: Congratulations on the quarter. Phenomenal performance, particularly in the Brazilian businesses. I was very impressed by the volume growth that you had in the quarter, despite the rainy weather. And I had read that (inaudible) had been intending to spend as much as R$460 million. I haven't seen any evidence of that order of magnitude of spending. And I was wondering if you could comment on the competitive environment, as well as what you're doing to drive volumes.

And then my colleague, Nico Lambrechts, in London asked me if you could expand on the price increases that you're pushing through this January, please.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Well, first, the competitive scenario and the market environment in Brazil. I think something that you have to consider is that the interest is growing. Of course, you have the weather impact, positives and negatives, but the overall industry is growing, both for beer and soft drinks - even faster for soft drinks. So we are, of course, taking advantage of a better Brazilian economic scenario for the country.

Second, when you compare fourth quarter with the first quarter, we were able to close the gap in terms of the market share loss. So we started the year more than 1.5 points lower than in 2006, and we finished the year less than 1 point behind 2006. So part of the market growth that was not seen in our results during the first half of the year now you see, because you have the industry plus the share growth.

Regarding market investments, I would say-- I would like to comment on our competitors' investment announcement. Part of it is-- The announcement itself is-- as they don't disclose their numbers-- is a marketing strategy in itself. So you never know exactly if they are talking about the same thing as we are. You can hear that from different competitors different numbers, and you never know exactly what they are talking about. So I would say the (inaudible) in the country reflect the good momentum that we [have] in Brazil now. Everybody's investing. I think both ourselves and our competitors are increasing investments in the market. In our case, we've been able to capture these additional investments or compensated additional investments with better management of our ZBB or the [non-working] monies we still have. We always said that we continue to see opportunities to try to get more out of business and to reduce layers to be more effective before we are able to invest more in the market.

And more important than that is our market programs are working very well, I think year on year we are learning how efficient they can be, and our people are executing better. So what you see is the result of several things. And, of course, we are very pleased with this kind of result.

Regarding price, just to anticipate the question, we did implement prices during December for returnable bottles. We did that different from 2006 where we waited until January 2007 to increase prices. This year, we decided that, according to our strategy, it would be better to anticipate, and we did that during December. Of course, part of the net revenues (inaudible) that you see quarter on quarter is a result of that, not only because we anticipated prices but because premium did very well, direct distribution, and the same initiatives in place for many years. But we did implement prices in December, and we are now implementing for cans for the [off trade] after Carnival. So we anticipate returnables, and we postpone cans compared to last year.

If you look at the market, we have some good signs and some bad signs but, I would say, better than last year. We see our competitors maybe a little more pressure because of the commodities. And then it seems that in a strong market-- so they are stronghold markets-- they are following prices faster than they did last year - not in the whole country but in a good part of it. Both (inaudible) all followed prices. FEMSA does not increase price since, I think, the end of 2006.

ROBERT FORD: And then, Luiz, what was the blended price increase on those two adjustments, please?

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Around 5% for both channels but not across the board. I mean we did very precisely, brand by brand, region by region. So, on average, I would say 5%.

ROBERT FORD: Great. Thank you very much, and, again, congratulations.

OPERATOR: Thank you. Our next question is coming from Andrea Teixeira of JP Morgan.

ANDREA TEIXEIRA, ANALYST, JP MORGAN: Also congratulations, obviously, on very strong results. Just to the benefit of talking about-- I know you mentioned in the press release on how strong we feel about costs in 2008, also with the hedges. But can you elaborate more if you have additional gains, given that we have even weaker-- I'm sorry-- stronger Reais now.

And, also, the second question would be on Canada - if you feel pricing-- if we're seeing (inaudible) of pricing. Thanks.

GRAHAM STALEY: Yes, cost of goods sold certainly are a challenge for us in 2008 and are for all brewers, as you know, with pressure on barley, on corn, on aluminum prices, and now, in recent weeks, sugar. But we remain committed to our hedging strategy. The hedging strategy is certainly helping us at the moment. And precisely for the fact it buys us time to reengineer our business and think about where we want to move in the future, that hedging strategy will stay in place. As you look across the region, we have some different experiences. Here in Brazil, we have strong benefits from sugar in 2008 and the dollar hedge. And, as you rightly said, it will be a little bit of extra benefit from those dollar hedges as well. As you move further north into Canada, we're going to be under pressure on the grains; there's no doubt about that. And that's posing real challenges for Bernardo and his team. In Quinsa--

BERNARDO PAIVA: I just would like to add-- Here in Canada, basically, the last three months, basically, we had some price activities here, mainly French Canada, and our net revenue went down when you compare '07, the last quarter, to '06. But basically what we are trying to do now is, really, in the most important regions, to put price up again, at least in line with inflation that we are facing in '08. And I think that the other brands they will follow us - the other companies, because, again, they have the same impact in the COGS that we'll have. It's hard to say that they'll follow us yes or no. But, again, we'll try really to keep price in line with inflation and to do that in the first quarter of the year.

ANDREA TEIXEIRA: And, Joao, just because we have-- When you're talking about a pro forma basis, are you talking about just-- because you have an impact also of the acquisitions. So if you look at 2008 versus 2007, talking pro forma, you see a better-- an improvement in pricing? Is that what I read from your comments?

BERNARDO PAIVA: Andrea, it's to Joao or it's for me here.

ANDREA TEIXEIRA: I'm sorry - to Joao.

GRAHAM STALEY: I think we've got some communication issues here. Andrea, could you repeat your question, please?

ANDREA TEIXEIRA: Sure, Graham. Just, basically, I was boding on his comments regarding the pricing. I got confused because of, obviously, the impact of the merger with the new brands in Canada. If he was saying that he's taking prices 2% throughout Canada, if we should read that prices will be, at least in Canadian dollar terms, slightly better, like 3% better than 2007? But that is pro forma or just--? That's probably pro forma, I would say. Right?

JOAO CASTRO NEVES: First, Andrea, this growth will try to be (inaudible) situation and then try to move in the first quarter. The most important reason to try to go there. But, basically, to be in line with the last years, with the inflation, that could be closer to 2% but not exactly in the first quarter. It's an average on the year.

ANDREA TEIXEIRA: Okay. Great. And just on Graham's comments-- I'm sorry to go-- I'm jumping. But on your comments, Graham, you're saying on the cost environment if we can net/net-- the fact that you were mentioning you'd feel even more optimistic about the cost side than you were before in December? Or how do you feel about this what you had guided that you would see additional margin gains in 2008? Should we expect additional margin gains in 2008, given 2007 was so strong?

GRAHAM STALEY: Yes. We're looking at sort of a weighted inflation for the whole of AmBev of around 5%. Since three months ago, we feel the same level of confidence, but, obviously, with three months of further experience and work, we've got more granularity around that confidence. So, in other words, we've proven the numbers even more than we'd proven them to ourselves three months ago. So we're not going to go any further than to say we expect to beat that 5% inflation rate. Knowing AmBev, you know we're going to keep pushing and pushing even when we get below it, obviously to maximize our margins. But we feel not more confident and no less confident. We just have more (inaudible), so to speak, in terms of plans of action. So, overall, no real change in that overall guidance.

ANDREA TEIXEIRA: Okay. Perfect. Thank you very much. Again, congratulations to all of you.

OPERATOR: Thank you. Our next question is coming from Lore Serra of Morgan Stanley.

LORE SERRA, ANALYST, MORGAN STANLEY: Good morning, and congratulations, as well, on the results. I wanted to ask a question about the hedging but actually looking further into 2009, because, as you've talked about, you've locked in the hedges for '08. Given this spike that we've seen in grain costs, that's obviously more likely to hit in 2009 than 2008, given the way that you hedged. When you say you're still committed fully to the hedge policy, should we assume you're saying that you continue to hedge into '09, even though those hedges on the commodity side, both in terms of sugar and in terms of grains, will obviously be at much more adverse rates? Or is that not what we should be reading into that comment?

GRAHAM STALEY: As I said, our hedging policy stays in place. Normally, it's around the norm of a 12-month hedge, so we have flexibility in our own policy to go short on that or long on it, only by a couple of months. We don't have that much flexibility. What it allows us to do is it allows us to take more information on board about what's happening with commodities, especially grain, and, currently, with sugar. Sugar's a good example, where we had some hikes recently, but we don't think they're going to be long term. So we allow ourselves the opportunity to take a view on those commodities but always with the intention that when we get to the end of the year, we like to be 12 months covered. So no change there. And, yes, we are, as you would expect, starting to hedge 2009. At this point in time we see no reason to change it for the very simple reason it provides that certainty in our business, and it tells us what we have to do. Being the company and the size of the company we are, we have the ability to put these hedges in place. And, by doing so, we're then able to plan ourselves accordingly. And if we have to take other initiatives, then we take those initiatives. We're not speculators. I think it's really important to point out that we're not speculators, which is why we have the 12-month policy in place. But we do give ourselves the luxury of having a view on the marketplace for a particular product - and currency - through a very small window around that 12-month policy.

LORE SERRA: That's helpful. If I could just ask on Brazil Beer-- It was obviously a great finish to the year with almost 8% volume growth organically and 5.5% for the year. As you think about putting those numbers-- I know you guys are very good at planning and modeling your volume growth. How do you think about 2008? I guess implicitly I'm asking for some of your views and guidance on what you think '08 will be. But any way we should think about-- Should 2008 be a year like 2007 in terms of volumes? Can you see the continuation of the strong volume trends we saw in the fourth quarter into '08? I'd be happy to hear any of your thoughts on volume growth into '08.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: You say we're not giving you any guidance. What we can, of course, is the market conditions remain the same. And if we're able to implement all the initiatives we have to implement, defending our share or even growing the share, continue to grow premium brand prices, I think we had the discipline for the last several years. I think we should expect (inaudible) economy, the Brazilian economy and global economy remains similar as it was in 2007. I think we should expect similar figures. There's no guarantee out there. But, of course-- I don't see many changes in the total environment.

LORE SERRA: Thanks very much.

OPERATOR: Thank you. Our next question is coming from Alex Robarts of Santander.

ALEX ROBARTS, ANALYST, SANTANDER: I wanted to go to Brazil Beer and, specifically, at the cash SG&A. And what I thought was remarkable was the extent that you really were able to pull back on that cash SG&A, giving that slight decrease for the quarter and having most of that expense into the third quarter. I guess the question becomes - Is this something that we could perhaps expect for the first quarter? In other words, as we look at what you plan to spend in terms of Brazil Beer in the first quarter, are we going to have kind of a fair comp year on year? I forget exactly first quarter '07. But are we going to see this decline again in that cash SG&A? And for the year, the question becomes-- I look back in '06, and it looked like the beer cash SG&A was slightly below your volume growth full year '06. This year as you state cash SG&A was in line with your Brazilian beer volume growth. In '08, do you think that cash SG&A might be again in line with your volume growth, above, or below?

GRAHAM STALEY: I think as we pointed out in at least two of the calls last year, we did have a phasing issue last year in terms of when we decided to spend the dollars. When you look at the year as a whole, there's been no real change to the pattern. That cash SG&A is moving, really, in line with a percentage of volume. We've always said about 30% of the volume increase was translating into increased SG&A plus, obviously, an increase in direct distribution and then, of course, inflation on top of that. And when you do the math, you'll see that works pretty well for both the beer business and CSD when you take the full year into consideration. I know you'd love to know what the quarterly breakdown was going to be, but, obviously, so would our competitors as well. So we've got our funds in place. I think you should look forward in 2008 to the same sort of algorithm applying. In other words, R$0.30 of volume growth plus inflation plus direct distribution increases as we take more third parties into our network, and then, from time to time, there may be the occasional extra item. But as a year as a whole you shouldn't expect any change in that pattern. But I think it would be unwise at this stage to talk too much about the quarterly phasing because the year's only just started.

ALEX ROBARTS: But for the year, I guess, Graham, can we think about that cash SG&A, like in '07, growing in line with volume, or is that not a fair assumption?

GRAHAM STALEY: Yes. The algorithm I was suggesting you use is take about 30% to 40% of the volume growth and apply that to SG&A growth, add inflation to it, add 1 to 2 percentage points of growth, depending on the extent of direct distribution, which is always a little bit of an unknown, because, obviously, we're not always sure how we're going to extend the network until it obviously happens. That mechanism-- That algorithm still applies to 2008 as it did in 2007. So you shouldn't be looking for any dramatic reductions in SG&A at the end of the day.

ALEX ROBARTS: Fair enough. Good. That's helpful.

GRAHAM STALEY: Quarter to quarter, yes, you'll get some variations, depending on when we decide to hit the market. We'll obviously talk about those as those quarters come around, as we did in 2007. Hopefully, that helps.

ALEX ROBARTS: Okay. Yes. And I guess I just wanted to go, secondly, to the market share performance in the soft drinks in Brazil. Clearly, kind of record market share in 4Q in Brazil. You noted in January 18% - another all-time high. And I guess you also talked about seeing further opportunities of getting share. Where are you sourcing this share from? Would it be fair to say that this is coming from the expense of the other "A" brand of soft drink brand? Could it be also some of the "B" brands? If you could comment a little bit on the government efforts and this idea of trying to reduce the informality, that would be helpful.

JOAO CASTRO NEVES: First, I would say that there are two factors that are driving volume - the soft drinks volume. One is, of course, the market. You know the soft drinks business is more correlated to real income, even more correlated to real income than beer in Brazil. That means the market is growing fast. And, together with the real income, you have several innovations impacting the market. So, more than beer, the innovations that are being implemented in the market - they're bringing lots of volume. In our case, H2OH! is the winner, so, of course, we launched at the end of 2006. As we said, we've [tasted] some supply restrictions at the end of 2006. Then, when the summer came in 2007, we still had those same restrictions. And then came the winter, and we realized that the seasonality for H2OH! is higher than for the soft drinks. So, of course, what you saw at the end of the year was H2OH! increasing here in volume and bringing some additional market share.

In terms of the source, it's, of course, H2OH! is taking share from other soft drinks but also from other beverages. As we always said, it's a flavored water. It's a light, light, CSD. It's really difficult to define exactly what it's scaled for in terms of the consumer perspective. And, of course, we are taking share from everyone, including outside the CSD industry.

Physically for January, the additional share came from Coke because they increased prices during the end of the year. We always follow later, according to our specific strategy. They are the leaders. So we track, we monitor, and then we decide what to do. We are now making these decisions and implementing some of these opportunities to close some of the gaps that open during the beginning of the year. But, on average for 2007, I would say the share came from "B" brands, not because of less informality. I wouldn't say that because the flow meters are not implemented yet. It's been delayed for almost a year. But because of our execution and because of real income means that people are going into more-- less value brands and more brands. They're going after the better brands. So both us and Coke got some share from the market.

ALEX ROBARTS: Okay. Thank you.

OPERATOR: Thank you. Our next question is coming from Celso Sanchez of Citigroup.

CELSO SANCHEZ, ANALYST, CITIGROUP: I guess, on that real income growth topic, the mix-- the beer business in Brazil certainly has been something you've talked about for a while. As you said, maybe the premium or super premium side has slowed a little bit relative to where it was before. But it certainly seems quite robust. Can you update us, number one, on where that mix is - the percentage of your volume? And, number two, do you think there's room for that to accelerate? Obviously the base is bigger now than it used to be, but with the economic outlook that we see and your abilities to execute even better now than they were, is that something you see as a major focus for you, given the real income shift coming together the next several quarters?

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Celso, can you repeat the final of your question, because we lost your voice?

CELSO SANCHEZ: I'm basically just asking about the shift - the potential further shift in mix towards the premium brands - toward the Bohemia and (inaudible) and other line extensions of those - and how that might be affected and helped by the real income growth that you're talking about as a further driver of revenue. Perhaps that would help you - the weighted average above inflation over the next several quarters.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: We've been implementing so many initiatives to drive premium volume. It's always difficult to say exactly-- Of course, the base is much lower than the mainstream. That is difficult to be precise in what is the real income growth impact in the premium and what is the initiatives that we are putting in place? The fact is most of our premium brands are growing very fast and, specifically, the ones that we are putting more focus are really doing very well - for Bohemia, (inaudible), the draught beer. And we see that the market is very positive to increase the share of the premium in our portfolio. So we'll continue to pursue this opportunity. Today we are at 5% of the total volume is premium, on average, for 2007. We believe it should continue to expand, of course, because the opportunity is out there. When you compare with other industries in Brazil, several industries have 15% to 20% of their volume in the premium segment. So why would beer not have the same kind of size? So other initiatives that we have put in place-- We are now importing brands from several countries. We started with Uruguay. Now we have Uruguay and Argentina. We have some European brands that will be rolled out into some specific markets, starting from Sao Paulo. And the premium brands are doing-- The super premium brands and specialties if you compare to other more developed markets are also a big opportunity - so not only the premium and the premium plus but also the specialties and the super premium segment. So I think, going forward, if our initiatives continue to work, you should see the same kind of results.

CELSO SANCHEZ: I guess that 5% number still sounds to me like a very familiar one for the last few years. So, given the growth rates that we've heard you report or, at least, speak to as multiples of the mainstream, I guess I wonder-- Is there a reason it hasn't accelerated already, and have you been kind of formulating your strategy more carefully now you're ready to really launch it? Or you really are pretty comfortable with it growing at the rate that it's growing, which is obviously above mainstream but still not accelerating the way I would have thought it would be? I would have thought we'd be approaching sort of 8% or 9% by now, given what we talked about over the last few years.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: If you go back, I think, two or three years, the premium would represent less than 5.5%. We finished the year with an average of 7%. So it's increasing. But the difference maybe compared to other markets is the mainstream segment is very big in Brazil because we are the segment itself. If you take our three main brands, they represent more than 90% of the mainstream segment, because our competitors-- All of them sell at the discount, a 20% to 30% discount, of our brands. So the way we define the premium is not necessarily fair because you take Skol-- it's 15% to 20% higher than any other competitive brand. So the premium that we define here are the brands they are selling at 15% or 20% above Skol, which is a very high price. So you'd never consider that the Skol brand is kind of core-plus or core-plus to premium. It's difficult because you're really comparing to 68% share that comes from the mainstream segment. So when you take this 2.7 times I think we grew the premium compared to the mainstream, that means more than 15% - almost 16% year on year. So it's pretty fast.

CELSO SANCHEZ: Just to be clear, I think I just heard you say 7% of the mix rather than the 5% I thought I heard you say originally.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: 7% of the mix, on average, for 2007.

CELSO SANCHEZ: Great. Very helpful. Thank you.

OPERATOR: Thank you. Our next question is coming from Lauren Torres of HSBC.

LAUREN TORRES, ANALYST, HSBC: My question is a follow-up on your North American business. Last year we saw some good cost savings, and you benefited from-- I guess it was a favorable brand mix and also brewery efficiencies. As we think about this year and higher grain costs, I was wondering if you could talk about where you are in the process as far as further upside from brand mix and also brewery efficiencies. What should we expect in that regard as far as an offset to some of your higher costs?

BERNARDO PAIVA: I think that for, basically, this year, one of our strengths is the cost side of the business. We continue to work on that. To make it to the top line, as I said in my speech, I think you have to have the three leading brands for important segments. I'm talking about Bud, (inaudible), and Lakeport and, for sure, we have Bud Light and Stella to help us grow this top line in '08. And the other important thing is the mix of the region - that you try to manage better in '08 than we did in '07. That's what I can say to you for now. But I really think that managing-- Investing our money and energy behind those few choices that I mentioned and manage the mix of the regions, we can achieve our EBITDA growth and, at the same time, the market share growth for this year.

LAUREN TORRES: But are there further efficiencies? It seems as far as improving efficiencies in your breweries and what not that there was some good upside there last year. How much more of that is to come? It seems like it did benefit you last year. Will it continue to benefit you this year?

BERNARDO PAIVA: Yes. We increase. It will not be enough to compensate all the heat of the inputs that we have and malt and so on. But it will increase a lot because, again, it's one of our strengths. And all the initiatives that we have in terms to increase efficiency in the breweries and our freight and all of our ZBB challenge will continue to do that. But just what I said, it will not be enough to compensate the heat that we will have in the costs. That's why the top line will be more than ever a big focus for us in '08.

LAUREN TORRES: And just lastly-- I don't know if you could comment about what you've seen so far this year but also in Canada with respect to pricing-- Any change there, or is it just as much discounting this year as we've seen towards the end of last year?

BERNARDO PAIVA: As I've said before, the last quarter was tough in terms of price because we lost market share in French Canada a lot during last year, and then we reacted in the last quarter and especially in the last two months of the year. And we gained share - not everything that we lost, but we gained share. In the first quarter I think that we increased price in some regions, and I think that the other companies will probably follow us. But, again, we'll try to manage our net revenue and check if it's possible to increase it by here and there with no cost for our market share. We'll follow up this very, very closely every day in order to locate (inaudible) if we have any room to improve a little bit more price because we need that with the COGS that I said before-- but with no cost of our market share. But we did some price increases in last month and the beginning of this month in some regions.

LAUREN TORRES: Thank you.

OPERATOR: Thank you. Our next question is coming from Jose Yordan of UBS.

JOSE YORDAN, ANALYST, UBS: My question is a follow-up to Lore's question before about '08 volumes. I guess your answer was that there was no real reason why you couldn't show similar numbers. But I would mention one, at least, which is the fact that GDP growth forecasts by economists are all calling for some sort of reduction in GDP, perhaps with interest rate hikes - a much bigger chance this year of that. So it seems to me like there's going to be certainly a tougher headwind in terms of achieving that kind of volume growth. And, of course, you raised prices in December, which leads me to believe that there was some sort of inventory loading ahead of that that might have helped your December volume anyway. So that gives you a tougher comp as well for next year. With all this in mind, I guess, one would have to either forecast a lower volume growth for '08 or a much higher marketing spend. How will the Company approach that tradeoff in '08?

JOAO CASTRO NEVES: Are you specific in Brazil, or are you talking overall?

JOSE YORDAN: No. I'm talking about Brazil.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: I'll start to answer, and then I'll ask Graham to jump in if he thinks it's necessary. Basically, you're right in terms of the GDP. It is likely the projections are slightly below last year. But, on the other hand, that income continues to grow. So you have several facts because the number of companies making IPOs in Brazil are making the employment to grow and far more employment to grow. The government just announced another real minimum wage increase, around 10% compared to an inflation of 4% to 5%. So real income continues to grow ahead of GDP. So when you look at that and when you compare with our models, the net effect is very similar. Of course, you never know because you still have some regulations in Brazil. The government is still influencing some prices; for example, oil prices and gasoline and things like that. You never know exactly what will happen in one or two months. But you look at the government behavior, you look at what happened with the CPMF, which was checking bank taxes where the government lost it. It's a R$40 billion reduction in taxes for the government. And then they come in and announce for January R$40 billion above last year without the CPMF. So the economy itself seems to be performing very well. And, somehow, the currency appreciation is offsetting part of the grains and oil threats or increases. And when you add the whole commodities and hedging strategies, it's allowing us to increase prices still in line with inflation. That means that the real price for beer is not growing ahead of inflation. That means the purchasing power in the case of beer is (inaudible). So I think-- I would say it's neutral. The forecast would be very similar to what we saw in 2007.

JOSE YORDAN: Okay. Great. Thanks a lot.

OPERATOR: Thank you. Our next question is coming from Ricardo Fernandez of Banco Itau.

RICARDO FERNANDEZ, ANALYST, BANCO ITAU: A couple questions; first is getting back to the direct distribution. Obviously, this has been a trend that you've implemented for quite some time. I was just curious to know how much is left to actually acquire that is not already yours. And then how long can that be a benefit in terms of margin for you going forward?

And then the second thing was focusing back on this demand equation. Maybe you could just correct me if I'm wrong. But I think that the minimum wage going up 8.5% or 9% - again, real wage growth, increasing - that you have a considerable amount of people who weren't normally beer drinkers moving towards beer, especially in the northeast. Have you seen a-- I don't know if it's a shift, but, at least, have you seen regional differences in beer consumption in the last year or in the last quarter?

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Let me get the end of your question first. You're right, but it's very difficult to analyze that in the (inaudible). But you are right in the opposite way, because we were expecting volumes to grow faster in the north and northeast region in the second half of the year, ahead of the south and southeast, but exactly the opposite happened. So, to be honest, I think, net/net, you have some northeast regions inside the southeast region - so, in terms of consumer power and consumer behavior. But, of course, you have the weather impact on that. So you have to analyze that in the longer term to be sure what's really happening. So net/net, you're right, but in the opposite way.

RICARDO FERNANDEZ: If I could just jump in, maybe the northeast consumption story, as I call it, is still in the works. It hasn't really materialized yet, but one would think that it should.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: It will take a long time. It will take three or four years. What usually happens in our (inaudible) is that you start with a consumption increase in the middle east, middle west, and north and northeast regions. And then all of a sudden the industry that is basically in Sao Paulo and Rio and Minas - they start to react. So the first thing is the purchasing power increases in the north. And then the industry first sells the inventory they have, and, after that, they have to reinvest and expand capacity to hire people. So the technical or the specializing people are still in these regions, and, of course, industry takes more time to react than necessarily the demand in these regions. And it's easily compensated because, of course, the total volume in the south and southeast is much higher than north and northeast. So it's a cycle. You never know exactly where you are in terms of the cycle. Of course, it depends on the country-- the long-term country performance. So what we experienced in the second half of 2007 was basically the south and southeast regions reacting to this demand and increasing the number of formal employees. So it's a cycle.

RICARDO FERNANDEZ: And the other side of the question - direct distribution?

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Yes. Sorry. In direct-- When we started that, I think, seven or eight years ago, we said that we'd probably reach 50% of our volume in direct distribution. We already did that. I think, this year we finished at 52% of our volumes in direct distribution. But we also said, I think, one year ago that we believe that could reach around 60% of our volumes. That's because the way we go is that we learn, we develop the systems, the infrastructure, and, of course, depending on the volume performance, the dilution of our fixed costs is very good, and that allows us to expand in those specific regions where it makes sense. So the equation continues to be positive as the volume is growing and as we are learning. We continue to learn and be more efficient. So I think at this time I wouldn't change that. But I really believe we still have for the coming years opportunities to increase direct distribution; on average, at a slower pace than we did at the beginning but in line with 2007.

RICARDO FERNANDEZ: Great. Obviously, as your volumes grow, it's sort of a moving target. And then new volume concentrations pop up where it didn't make sense before, and it makes sense going forward. Is that also the case?

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Once we establish one direct distribution center, then, of course, we do that in one specific area. And then if other opportunities around that specific place come up, we make a decision. But, of course, the more important we have the more we dilute the fixed costs. And not necessarily the equation works in exactly the same way for us (inaudible). So the tradeoff is not something stable.

RICARDO FERNANDEZ: All right. Thanks a lot.

OPERATOR: Our next question is coming from Tufic Salem of Credit Suisse.

TUFIC SALEM, ANALYST, CREDIT SUISSE: I just wanted to check with you about organic CapEx over the next couple of years, if you can give us an update on that, if there's any for 2008 and 2009. And, also, if you can specify a bit more about your capacity utilization, specifically, in Brazil and how much capacity you expect over the next two years to come on board.

GRAHAM STALEY: I'll take the CapEx question, and I'll hand over to Luiz to talk about capacity expansion, et cetera.

As you look at the cash flow, you'll see that our CapEx - as you describe it, organic CapEx - was something like R$1.6 billion in the full year 2007. I think you can expect that trend to continue. We need to continue to invest in our business as the business grows. At the same time, obviously, we want to try and run at full capacity best as we can. So don't look for any dramatic step-ups or decreases in CapEx. Look for the continuation of the sort of trends you've seen in the past.

And on expansion specifically in Brazil, I'll hand over to Luiz.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: The capacity varies a lot. You can never take Brazil on average. The regions are not 100% connected. They are somehow connected, but, of course, the logistic costs will increase a lot if you try to ship products more than 500 or 600 kilometers. We do when we need for specific periods of time or for short periods of time, but, of course, as the volume is growing, we review our footprint. As I said in my answer to Ricardo, we had more volume growth in the southeast than we expected, and we had less in the north. That means that we'll have to reevaluate our priorities, and we'll probably have to announce a new plan or some line extensions or some new packaging lines in the southeast region. But that is-- In terms of our total CapEx, I want to say that would impact dramatically the level of CapEx we have today. I would consider maybe in terms of the number of equipment that we have to put in place are a little higher, but you have to consider that currency's much better today. So I would say CapEx would be in line with inflation. We do have capacity for the year, even if we don't put any line in place. We do have capacity for 2008, although we'd love to have these new expansions in place to avoid some logistic costs or to save some logistic costs. So, moving forward, we should see some announcements with regard to capacity expansion but without any big trap in terms of supply in the market.

TUFIC SALEM: Okay. Thanks for that.

OPERATOR: Thank you. Our next question is coming from Trevor Stirling of Sanford Bernstein.

TREVOR STIRLING, ANALYST, SANFORD BERNSTEIN: I've got three questions for you; the first one coming back to the timing of the price increases. Can you give us just a bit more detail on when exactly in December those price increases on the returnable bottles took place? I'm just trying to get a sense for the extent to which that influenced both revenue per hectoliter and the volume growth towards the tail end of last year.

A second question refers to costs of goods sold. I appreciate that you can't give guidance on the detail of the impact of the hedges, but, in the last conference call, I think [Felipe] mentioned that 60% of COGS was dollar related in Beer Brazil. I wonder if you're able to confirm that. And, if so, what would be the equivalent number on CSBs?

And the final question is one concerning Canada. I noted that in the exports in Canada, the organic revenue per hectoliter dropped 13%. Is that a currency related thing with exports being billed in U.S. dollars?

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Let me get your first question. First, I will not give you a precise moment for the price increase because, for different reasons, they happen in different times. And I would like to (inaudible) that. But, to help you, I would say they were implemented in the second half of December. So each brand in a different moment to give time for the price to consumer management with the trade for each of the brands and to manage the inventory and the logistic restrictions. They are always difficult to manage all the volume in the second half of December. So I would consider taking ten days of December, on average, for the returnable, if you want. But this is only an average.

TREVOR STIRLING: That's very helpful.

GRAHAM STALEY: And, Trevor, the question on COGS-- I'm not quite sure of the context in which Felipe mentioned the 60% number. But, in terms of total Brazil, I don't have the split here in front of me for soft drinks and beer. But in terms of total Brazil, the dollar exposure of total costs of goods sold that we show in our P&L is somewhere between 35% and 40%.

TREVOR STIRLING: 35% to 40%. Thanks very much, Graham.

BERNARDO PAIVA: And the last one on the U.S. exports - net revenue. The answer is yes, due to the weaker American dollar when compared to the Canadian one.

TREVOR STIRLING: Yes. That's great. Thank you very much, indeed, gentlemen.

OPERATOR: Our final question is coming from Celso Sanchez of Citigroup.

CELSO SANCHEZ: Something I've actually been a little curious about. It sounds like it's less of an issue now on the press. But should we hear about potential concerns about electricity shortage or crisis again? Could you just remind us where you are? I know a few years ago you invested in some self-generation capacity and so forth. Can you remind us where you stand now, if there were to be a crisis, how much self-generating capacity you have? Just go over what's your situation if that were to happen. How well positioned are you, particularly relative to competitors, if you have a sense of that? Thank you.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Celso, two things. First, given the strong rain that we experienced specifically in the south and the southeast region in January and the beginning of [February], the government said the risk of any tragedies is at least postponed for 2009 or 2010. So the summer of 2010 the risk has been postpone for the country. So, in our case, we still have all the infrastructure that we put in place for the last shortage we faced. I think it was 2000/2001. So we have all the co-generation implemented in our plants, and we are not using it. And we can use at similar prices or even lower prices that we are facing in the spot market - of course, not on average. But, if we had to substitute the spot market for our south generation, we would be able to do that. You never know exactly region by region, but, on average, I would say it's not a risk in terms of projection. There's always a risk in terms of [coolers], the economy itself, but in terms of capacity, it's not a risk. And it's at least postponed two years from now. Of course, if we see several initiatives from the government to close the gap, we have to wait and see if the investments will really be ready.

CELSO SANCHEZ: Just to be clear, all the breweries have the capacity to run independently with co-gen and, also, even your glass bottle plant?

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Not necessarily, because you have to consider the total energy that we buy and not one plant specifically. So we have a surplus in terms of energy capacity, and we have to transfer this capacity and make some agreement with the companies that manage the energy in the country. So it's not plant by plant; it's more region by region but even though you can transfer energy from one side to the other.

CELSO SANCHEZ: Thank you very much.

OPERATOR: Thank you. There appear to be no further questions. At this time, I'd like to turn the floor back to management for any closing remarks.

GRAHAM STALEY: No closing remarks from myself, other than to wish you well and thank you for taking part in the conference call this morning. And we look forward to talking to you again in a couple of months when we have the Q1 2008 results. Take care, everyone. Bye-bye.

OPERATOR: Thank you. This does conclude today's AmBev's fourth quarter 2007 earnings conference call. You may disconnect your lines at this time, and have a wonderful day.

[Thomson Financial reserves the right to make changes to documents, content, or other information on this web site without obligation to notify any person of such changes.

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[Copyright: Content copyright 2008 Thomson Financial. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. Electronic format, layout and metadata, copyright 2008 Voxant, Inc. (www.voxant.com) ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No license is granted to the user of this material other than for research. User may not reproduce or redistribute the material except for user's personal or internal use and, in such case, only one copy may be printed, nor shall user use any material for commercial purposes or in any fashion that may infringe upon Thomson Financial's or Voxant's copyright or other proprietary rights or interests in the material; provided, however, that members of the news media may redistribute limited portions (less than 250 words) of this material without a specific license from Thomson Financial and Voxant so long as they provide conspicuous attribution to Thomson Financial and Voxant as the originators and copyright holders of such material. This is not a legal transcript for purposes of litigation.]

Company / organization: Name: Thomson Financial; NAICS: 551111

Publication title: Fair Disclosure Wire; Linthicum

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 28, 2008

Publisher: CQ Roll Call

Place of publication: Linthicum

Country of publication: United States, Linthicum

Publication subject: Business And Economics, Law--Corporate Law

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

ProQuest document ID: 466221137

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/466221137?accountid=4840

Copyright: 2008 CCBN, Inc. and FDCH e-Media, Inc.

Last updated: 2018-02-21

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 94 of 313

PAGE 2

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Florida Times Union ; Jacksonville, Fla. [Jacksonville, Fla]29 Feb 2008: A.2.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

CELEBRITY WATCH GET A RIDE TO SCHOOL IN TERMINATOR'S TANK Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger says he asked an Ohio museum to return his Austrian army tank because he was concerned about the upkeep and wants to offer rides to schoolchildren. JUDGE WON'T LET JA RULE PAY FRIENDS' BAIL A judge says she is troubled that rapper Ja Rule has posted thousands of dollars in bonds for two co-defendants in a gun possession case and she wants them to come up with their own bail packages.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

'YOU SPOKE. WE LISTENED'

Dear reader. You spoke. We listened. Last month, we made some organizational and design changes in the Times-Union that we think made the newspaper more usable, readable and, not least, attractive. Most of the feedback from readers agreed with us.

However, some of the changes did not sit so well with a significant number of readers.

Some of you lamented the loss of weather reports and forecasts for some cities across the nation and world. Some said the type size for the lottery numbers seems smaller, and the format hard to read. Others didn't like presenting today's date as 2.29.08, rather than February 29, 2008, at the top of the pages.

So we've made some changes. Please note the addition of more national and world cities in the weather report below. And we have gone back to the more traditional form for presenting the date.

Lottery numbers? Well, the new type size is the same as the old, and after some reflection, we think it's pretty readable. So it may be that some readers were just accustomed to something else. But we're keeping an eye on it . . . and listening to you.FRANK DENTONInterim editorfrank.denton@jacksonville.com

WANTED IN 2 COUNTRIES

Jessica Simpson has announced on her Web site (Sweetkisses.net) that she plans to take a break from the recording studio, where she is working on a "country record", to entertain troops in Kuwait. She sends X's and O's to fans: "I love you all and am so blessed by the ... love you show me every day!! xoxo jess."

Kuwait isn't the only nation that thirsts for Jess' presence. In Touch Weekly says the people of Ukraine are quite fond of her. For one thing, Jess' flick Blonde Ambition, which was a total flop here, is huge in Ukraine.

"She is really the ideal of American beauty and style, like Barbie," says Alex Shpiluk from the Ukrainian Film Commission.

CELEBRITY WATCH

GET A RIDE TO SCHOOL IN TERMINATOR'S TANK

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger says he asked an Ohio museum to return his Austrian army tank because he was concerned about the upkeep and wants to offer rides to schoolchildren. Schwarzenegger, a native of Austria, said he plans to offer the rides to inner-city children in the Los Angeles area as a reward for staying in school, avoiding drugs and working hard. Warren Motts, founder and director of Motts Military Museum, said Schwarzenegger acquired the M47 American-made tank from the Austrian government and had it shipped to Florida. He transported it to a Columbus, Ohio, shopping mall in 1999 when he opened a Planet Hollywood there. Schwarzenegger lent the tank to the museum, in Groveport, in 2000. "I'm pleased we had the opportunity to have it and let people see it," Motts said Tuesday. "It was neat to have a Hollywood connection." Motts said the tank was removed from the museum Feb. 19, hoisted by crane onto a truck and transported to California.

BOY GEORGE DENIES DETAINING MALE MODEL

Boy George has denied imprisoning a 28-year-old Norwegian man at his London home last year. The former Culture Club singer pleaded not guilty to the charge of false imprisonment during a court hearing in London on Thursday. Audun Carlsen claims Boy George handcuffed him to a wall after he went to the singer's apartment as a photo model. The alleged incident took place last April. Boy George appeared in court under his real name, George O'Dowd. The 46-year-old singer is free on bail and is due to stand trial in November.

JUDGE WON'T LET JA RULE PAY FRIENDS' BAIL

A judge says she is troubled that rapper Ja Rule has posted thousands of dollars in bonds for two co-defendants in a gun possession case and she wants them to come up with their own bail packages. New York State Supreme Court Justice Micki Scherer expressed her concern Wednesday at the arraignment of Ja Rule, 31, Dennis Cherry and Mohamed Gamal on gun possession charges. All pleaded not guilty. The judge said Ja Rule, whose real name is Jeffrey Atkins, "has put himself in the position of perhaps controlling the outcome of the case. I think the potential for it is a big problem." Ja Rule's bail is $150,000 bond or cash; Cherry's bail is $150,000 bond or $75,000 cash; and Gamal's bail is $20,000 bond or $10,000 cash.

MCCARTNEY-MILLS SETTLEMENT DUE MARCH 17

A British judge will give the financial terms of Paul McCartney and Heather Mills' divorce settlement on March 17. The Judicial Communications Office said Judge Hugh Bennett will deliver his ruling to McCartney, Mills and their lawyers during a private court hearing. He will then decide, after hearing from their lawyers, whether to make any of the ruling public. In Britain, divorce cases are heard behind closed doors, but the secrecy has spurred speculation about the possible size of a settlement. Mills, 40, and McCartney, 65, separated in 2006 after four years of marriage. They spent six days in court earlier this month trying -- and failing -- to decide on Mills' share of the former Beatle's fortune, estimated at up to $1.6 billion.

CAMPBELL RECOVERING IN BRAZILIAN HOSPITAL

British supermodel Naomi Campbell spent a second day recuperating in a Brazilian hospital Wednesday after doctors removed a cyst. "We have been instructed to not release any information regarding Naomi," a Sirio Libanes Hospital spokeswoman said. "All I can tell you is that she is still at the hospital and that she is recovering very nicely." Neither the spokeswoman nor Campbell's publicist, Jeff Raymond, knew how long she would remain there. Campbell, a frequent visitor to Brazil who earlier this month celebrated Carnival in the northeastern city of Salvador, was admitted in recent days to the Sao Paulo facility. Gynecologist Jose Aristodemo Pinotti described the procedure as a laparoscopy, in which doctors use a thin, lighted scope to view internal organs.

BIRTHDAYS

- Actor Alex Rocco, 18 (born 1936) - Actor Antonio Sabato Jr., 9 (born 1972) - Rapper Ja Rule, 8 (born 1976)

Illustration

Photo; EVAN AGOSTIN/Associated Press Jessica Simpson Schwarzenner Boy George Ja Rule LEAP YEAR BIRTHDAYS Actor Dennis Farina is 16 (born 1944).; Caption:

Subject: Musicians & conductors; Shopping centers; Museums; Judges & magistrates; Hospitals; Court hearings & proceedings

Publication title: Florida Times Union; Jacksonville, Fla.

First page: A.2

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Feb 29, 2008

Publisher: Florida Times Union

Place of publication: Jacksonville, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Jacksonville, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 07402325

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 414590672

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/414590672?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Florida Times Union Feb 29, 2008

Last updated: 2017-11-11

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 95 of 313

The X, Y, Z of Brazilian excuses

Author: Hayward, Chloe

Publication info: Euromoney ; London (Mar 2008).

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

Note: Brazil is notorious for many things, caipirinhas, carnival and beautiful beaches... but in the mind of one Euromoney journalist Brazil also breeds a special type of PR who can invent some of the most original excuses for delays to meetings.

Tall tale 1: "I'm terribly sorry, Mr X, is not here yet. You see we normally start work at 9am, and for some reason he booked this meeting for 8am -- maybe he mistyped it... let's hope he turns up soon..."

At 8.45am a very apologetic Mr X arrives blaming the traffic -- another classic excuse that journalists and bankers in Sao Paulo both use with great abundance.

Tall tale 2: "You must be from the magazine? We are very sorry but Mr Y is running a bit late. He has been detained on a call to the CFO -- I am sure you understand, but you aren't as important as the CFO...."

Tall tale 3: "Ah... Mr Z has just popped out to get a sandwich; he'll be back shortly... I think."

Five minutes later Euromoney was pleased to be ushered out of the office to a particularly decadent restaurant and asked to join Mr Z for the three-course meal he was just starting.

Publication title: Euromoney; London

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 2008

Section: Front End

Publisher: Euromoney Institutional Investor PLC

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: Business And Economics--Banking And Finance

ISSN: 00142433

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 198873718

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/198873718?accountid=4840

Copyright: ( (c) Euromoney Institutional Investor PLC Mar 2008)

Last updated: 2017-11-01

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 96 of 313

Lure of the Samba

Author: Epstein, Claire

Publication info: American Theatre ; New York  Vol. 25, Iss. 3,  (Mar 2008): 23.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

How do people talk to you after your family has destroyed their family? Randolph-Wright's newest play, The Night Is a Child, which premieres at Milwaukee Repertory Theater March 12-April 13, juxtaposes a mother's guilt and grief with the celebratory atmosphere of Brazil's streets and beaches.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

Headnote

MILWAUKEE, WIS.

On the anniversary of the 1999 Columbine shootings, Charles Randolph-Wright i was celebrating Carnival in Brazil. "I remember thinking, what happens to the parents after a tragedy like this? How do people talk to you after your family has destroyed their family?"

Randolph-Wright's newest play, The Night Is a Child, which premieres at Milwaukee Repertory Theater March 12-April 13, juxtaposes a mother's guilt and grief with the celebratory atmosphere of Brazil's streets and beaches. The play grapples with questions of forgiveness, blame and how to let go.

Wisconsin isn't one of Randolph-Wright's usual haunts. But The Night Is a Child isn't one of his usual plays. He is L perhaps best known for the productions he has written and directed for Arena Stage in Washington, D.C., many of which have dealt with issues of race (such as 2005's Cuttin' Up and 2000's Blue). "If you're a person of color, you're expected to write plays that are about people of color," he says. "But this play is a departure. It's Brazilian. It's about a white woman from Boston. It's all these different people colliding, and these cultures colliding. And it doesn't fit easily into a category."

Music-including that of Sergio Mendes, which lures the leading character from Boston to Brazil-is woven through the play much like the score of a film. "But it's definitely not a musical," Randolph-Wright insists. "It's a play. It has a lot of music in it, but no one breaks out into song." -Claire Epstein

Lanise Antoine Shelley in The Night Is a Child at Milwaukee Repertory Theater. JAY WESTHAUSER

Subject: Performing arts; Musical theater

Location: Brazil

Publication title: American Theatre; New York

Volume: 25

Issue: 3

Pages: 23

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 2008

Publisher: Theatre Communications Group, Inc.

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Theater

ISSN: 87503255

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

Document feature: Photographs

ProQuest document ID: 220582204

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/220582204?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Theatre Communications Group, Inc. Mar 2008

Last updated: 2017-11-10

Database: Performing Arts Periodicals Database

Document 97 of 313

Front & Center: Milwaukee, Wis.: Lure of the Samba

Author: Epstein, Claire

Publication info: American Theatre ; New York, N. Y.  Vol. 25, Iss. 3,  (Mar 2008): 23. [Duplicate]

ProQuest document link

Abstract: Charles Randolph-Wright's play "The Night Is a Child," which premieres at Milwaukee Repertory Theater in Wisconsin March 12-April 13, 2008, juxtaposes a mother's guilt and grief with the celebratory atmosphere of Brazil's streets and beaches. The play grapples with questions of forgiveness, blame and how to let go.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

Headnote

MILWAUKEE, WIS.

On the anniversary of the 1999 Columbine shootings, Charles Randolph-Wright i was celebrating Carnival in Brazil. "I remember thinking, what happens to the parents after a tragedy like this? How do people talk to you after your family has destroyed their family?"

Randolph-Wright's newest play, The Night Is a Child, which premieres at Milwaukee Repertory Theater March 12-April 13, juxtaposes a mother's guilt and grief with the celebratory atmosphere of Brazil's streets and beaches. The play grapples with questions of forgiveness, blame and how to let go.

Wisconsin isn't one of Randolph-Wright's usual haunts. But The Night Is a Child isn't one of his usual plays. He is L perhaps best known for the productions he has written and directed for Arena Stage in Washington, D.C., many of which have dealt with issues of race (such as 2005's Cuttin' Up and 2000's Blue). "If you're a person of color, you're expected to write plays that are about people of color," he says. "But this play is a departure. It's Brazilian. It's about a white woman from Boston. It's all these different people colliding, and these cultures colliding. And it doesn't fit easily into a category."

Music-including that of Sergio Mendes, which lures the leading character from Boston to Brazil-is woven through the play much like the score of a film. "But it's definitely not a musical," Randolph-Wright insists. "It's a play. It has a lot of music in it, but no one breaks out into song." -Claire Epstein

Lanise Antoine Shelley in The Night Is a Child at Milwaukee Repertory Theater. JAY WESTHAUSER

Location: Milwaukee, Wisconsin United States

Narrow subject: American theater, American drama, Regional theater, Dramatists, Themes, Premieres

Broad subject: Theater-USA, Theater-Productions

People: Randolph-Wright, Charles

Creative work: Night Is a Child, Charles Randolph-Wright (2008, Drama)

Company: Milwaukee Repertory Theater

Publication title: American Theatre; New York, N. Y.

Volume: 25

Issue: 3

Pages: 23

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 2008

Publisher: Theatre Communications Group

Place of publication: New York, N. Y.

Country of publication: New York, N. Y.

Publication subject: Business, Theater

ISSN: 8750-3255

Source type: Magazines

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

Document feature: Photographs

ProQuest document ID: 2414681

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2414681?accountid=4840

Last updated: 2017-08-24

Database: Performing Arts Periodicals Database

Document 98 of 313

March 2, 2008 (Page 191 of 310)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]02 Mar 2008: 191.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 48

Issue: 312

First page: 191

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 2, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249258626

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249258626?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Mar 2, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 99 of 313

March 2, 2008 (Page 231 of 310)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]02 Mar 2008: 231.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 48

Issue: 312

First page: 231

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 2, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249258655

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249258655?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Mar 2, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 100 of 313

WEEKEND FESTIVITIES FINISH SEASON: [CENTRAL BROWARD EDITION]

Author: Holehan, Peter

Publication info: South Florida Sun - Sentinel ; Fort Lauderdale, Fla. [Fort Lauderdale, Fla]02 Mar 2008: 23.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

"Everybody had a lot of fun whether they were in a championship game or not," said Tammy Austin, boys' soccer commissioner and coach of three teams in the league. "I think first-time participants, parents and volunteers were surprised at the amount of activities that we offered on the weekend."

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

The Cooper City Optimist soccer program's end-of-the-season celebration Feb. 8-10 at the Cooper City Sports Complex offered a weekend full of games for both coaches and players, a carnival- style atmosphere and a collaboration of volunteers and donations that gave back to the community.

It began on Friday night with the John Marnon coaches' game. Four teams, comprised only of coaches within the program, competed against each other to give kids a chance to see them play. Three of the teams were from the in-house program and one was composed of just travel coaches. The role reversal provided cheers and laughs from both sides.

Saturday, the championship games of all the divisions were played at the Sports Complex. The winners in the boys' divisions were Mexico (7-Under), Argentina (8-Under), Italy (9-Under), Brazil (10-Under), Italy (12-Under), Brazil (14-Under) and Argentina (seniors).

On the girls' side, the championship teams were USA (8-Under), Brazil (10-Under), England (12-Under), Argentina (14-Under) and Italy (seniors).

Championship Day, also called Soccerfest, did not limit the day to trophies for the winners and runners-up. It also included rides, a disc jockey, vanishing species, an appearance by the police K-9 team and a chance for volunteers from middle and high schools to log service hours by working concession booths.

Another new idea that was put into motion was the cleat recycling program. By collecting cleats that players have outgrown, donations were made to those who can't afford cleats.

"As a resident of Cooper City, I was really proud to be a part of this," said coach Oscar Isobar, who has coached in the program for nearly five years. "It's such a joyous day whether teams won or lost because of the energy and support that goes on during such a special day."

The event concluded on Sunday with the seventh annual charity games that raised money for a local charity that is chosen each year by the kids. This year, more than $2,000 was raised for Relay for Life, an organization that works to create awareness and raise money for women with breast cancer.

"Everybody had a lot of fun whether they were in a championship game or not," said Tammy Austin, boys' soccer commissioner and coach of three teams in the league. "I think first-time participants, parents and volunteers were surprised at the amount of activities that we offered on the weekend."

Peter Holehan can be reached at sportswriter03@aol.com.

Publication title: South Florida Sun - Sentinel; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Pages: 23

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 2, 2008

Section: CommNews

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: NEWSPAPER

ProQuest document ID: 387526994

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/387526994?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by the Sun-Sentinel)

Last updated: 2017-11-09

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 101 of 313

Cooper City Optimist soccer season ends with weekend celebration

Author: Holehan, Peter

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune Business News ; Washington [Washington]02 Mar 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Mar. 2--%HTMLlat1; %HTMLsymbol; %HTMLspecial; > Weekend festivities finish season Cooper City Optimist soccer season ends with weekend celebration Cooper City Optimist Soccer By Peter HolehanStaff WriterThe Cooper City Optimist soccer program's end-of-the-season celebration Feb. 8-10 at the Cooper City Sports Complex offered a weekend full of games for both coaches and players, a carnival-style atmosphere and a collaboration of volunteers and donations that gave back to the community.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

Mar. 2--%HTMLlat1; %HTMLsymbol; %HTMLspecial; ]> Weekend festivities finish season

Cooper City Optimist soccer season ends with weekend celebration

Cooper City Optimist Soccer

By Peter HolehanStaff WriterThe Cooper City Optimist soccer program's end-of-the-season celebration Feb. 8-10 at the Cooper City Sports Complex offered a weekend full of games for both coaches and players, a carnival-style atmosphere and a collaboration of volunteers and donations that gave back to the community.

It began on Friday night with the John Marnon coaches' game. Four teams, comprised only of coaches within the program, competed against each other to give kids a chance to see them play. Three of the teams were from the in-house program and one was composed of just travel coaches. The role reversal provided cheers and laughs from both sides.

Saturday, the championship games of all the divisions were played at the Sports Complex. The winners in the boys' divisions were Mexico (7-Under), Argentina (8-Under), Italy (9-Under), Brazil (10-Under), Italy (12-Under), Brazil (14-Under) and Argentina (seniors).

On the girls' side, the championship teams were USA (8-Under), Brazil (10-Under), England (12-Under), Argentina (14-Under) and Italy (seniors).

Championship Day, also called Soccerfest, did not limit the day to trophies for the winners and runners-up. It also included rides, a disc jockey, vanishing species, an appearance by the police K-9 team and a chance for volunteers from middle and high schools to log service hours by working concession booths.

Another new idea that was put into motion was the cleat recycling program. By collecting cleats that players have outgrown, donations were made to those who can't afford cleats.

"As a resident of Cooper City, I was really proud to be a part of this," said coach Oscar Isobar, who has coached in the program for nearly five years. "It's such a joyous day whether teams won or lost because of the energy and support that goes on during such a special day."

The event concluded on Sunday with the seventh annual charity games that raised money for a local charity that is chosen each year by the kids. This year, more than $2,000 was raised for Relay for Life, an organization that works to create awareness and raise money for women with breast cancer.

"Everybody had a lot of fun whether they were in a championship game or not," said Tammy Austin, boys' soccer commissioner and coach of three teams in the league. "I think first-time participants, parents and volunteers were surprised at the amount of activities that we offered on the weekend."

Peter Holehan can be reached at sportswriter03@aol.com.

Credit: South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Subject: Athletes

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune Business News; Washington

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 2, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 462314842

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/462314842?accountid=4840

Copyright: To see more of The South Florida Sun-Sentinel or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.sun-sentinel.com/. Copyright (c) 2008, South Florida Sun-Sentinel Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Last updated: 2017-10-30

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 102 of 313

Costa Cruises; Maurice Zarmati Named President & CEO of Costa Cruise Lines - North America

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Ecology, Environment & Conservation ; Atlanta [Atlanta]03 Mar 2008: 201.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Costa Cruises has been certified by RINA (Italian Shipping Register) with the BEST4, an integrated system of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards governing social accountability (SA 8000, issued in 2001), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 1996), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, 2000).

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

Maurice Zarmati has been named president and CEO of Costa Cruise Lines - North America. Zarmati, who is currently vice president of sales for Carnival Cruise Lines, will assume his new role beginning March 31, 2008. An accomplished sales executive, Zarmati has been with Carnival Cruise Lines since 1972, leading one of the largest and most successful sales teams in North America.

In his new role as president and CEO of Costa Cruise Lines - North America, Zarmati will report directly to Gianni Onorato, president of Costa Crociere, and will be responsible for all sales and marketing efforts for Costa's North and Central American regions. This includes sales development, marketing, revenue management, finance, human resources and passenger services. In the interim before Zarmati begins his position, Joni L. Rein, vice president of sales development and Ruben Perez, vice president of passenger services, will oversee all main functionalities of the Costa North America office.

"Maurice is well known and respected throughout the cruise industry for his numerous accomplishments and successes, so naturally we're thrilled to have him lead up the efforts for our North and Central American markets, which are key to the continued growth and success of the overall Costa Crociere brand," said Onorato. "Maurice brings nearly four decades of experience to the role, having led one of the biggest and best sales teams in North America with our sister company, Carnival Cruise Lines. We look forward to welcoming him to the Costa family in the next month."

Costa Cruises is Italy's and Europe's number one cruise vacation line. For the past 60 years its ships have sailed around the world, offering the best in Italian style, hospitality and cuisine and providing a dream vacation with the utmost in terms of fun and relaxation. In 2007 over 1.1 million Guests chose to cruise with Costa, a record for the European cruise industry. The Company's 12 fleet members, each with her own distinctive characteristics and unique style, all fly the Italian flag and sail to 250 destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, the Caribbean, South America, the United Arab Emirates, the Far East and the Indian Ocean. Five more vessels have been commissioned and will enter service by 2012. Costa Cruises has been certified by RINA (Italian Shipping Register) with the BEST4, an integrated system of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards governing social accountability (SA 8000, issued in 2001), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 1996), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, 2000). All Costa's ships have been awarded RINA's voluntary "Green Star" notation based on the highest environmental protection standards. Costa Cruises is also an official partner of the WWF for the protection of the marine ecoregions of the Mediterranean, the Greater Antilles and Brazil.

Keywords: Advertising, Conservation, Costa Cruises, Ecology, Environment, Environmental Protection, Marketing.

This article was prepared by Ecology, Environment & Conservation editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2008, Ecology, Environment & Conservation via VerticalNews.com.

Subject: Cruise lines; Marketing; Ecology

Location: North America

Publication title: Ecology, Environment & Conservation; Atlanta

First page: 201

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 3, 2008

Publisher: NewsRx

Place of publication: Atlanta

Country of publication: United States, Atlanta

Publication subject: Environmental Studies

ISSN: 1945-6492

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: Expanded Reporting

ProQuest document ID: 199759164

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/199759164?accountid=4840

Copyright: (c)Copyright 2008, Ecology, Environment & Conservation via VerticalNews.com

Last updated: 2016-02-14

Database: SciTech Premium Collection

Document 103 of 313

Costa Cruises; Maurice Zarmati Named President & CEO of Costa Cruise Lines - North America

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Ecology, Environment & Conservation Business ; Atlanta [Atlanta]03 Mar 2008: 209. [Duplicate]

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Costa Cruises has been certified by RINA (Italian Shipping Register) with the BEST4, an integrated system of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards governing social accountability (SA 8000, issued in 2001), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 1996), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, 2000).

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Maurice Zarmati has been named president and CEO of Costa Cruise Lines - North America. Zarmati, who is currently vice president of sales for Carnival Cruise Lines, will assume his new role beginning March 31, 2008. An accomplished sales executive, Zarmati has been with Carnival Cruise Lines since 1972, leading one of the largest and most successful sales teams in North America.

In his new role as president and CEO of Costa Cruise Lines - North America, Zarmati will report directly to Gianni Onorato, president of Costa Crociere, and will be responsible for all sales and marketing efforts for Costa's North and Central American regions. This includes sales development, marketing, revenue management, finance, human resources and passenger services. In the interim before Zarmati begins his position, Joni L. Rein, vice president of sales development and Ruben Perez, vice president of passenger services, will oversee all main functionalities of the Costa North America office.

"Maurice is well known and respected throughout the cruise industry for his numerous accomplishments and successes, so naturally we're thrilled to have him lead up the efforts for our North and Central American markets, which are key to the continued growth and success of the overall Costa Crociere brand," said Onorato. "Maurice brings nearly four decades of experience to the role, having led one of the biggest and best sales teams in North America with our sister company, Carnival Cruise Lines. We look forward to welcoming him to the Costa family in the next month."

Costa Cruises is Italy's and Europe's number one cruise vacation line. For the past 60 years its ships have sailed around the world, offering the best in Italian style, hospitality and cuisine and providing a dream vacation with the utmost in terms of fun and relaxation. In 2007 over 1.1 million Guests chose to cruise with Costa, a record for the European cruise industry. The Company's 12 fleet members, each with her own distinctive characteristics and unique style, all fly the Italian flag and sail to 250 destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, the Caribbean, South America, the United Arab Emirates, the Far East and the Indian Ocean. Five more vessels have been commissioned and will enter service by 2012. Costa Cruises has been certified by RINA (Italian Shipping Register) with the BEST4, an integrated system of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards governing social accountability (SA 8000, issued in 2001), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 1996), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, 2000). All Costa's ships have been awarded RINA's voluntary "Green Star" notation based on the highest environmental protection standards. Costa Cruises is also an official partner of the WWF for the protection of the marine ecoregions of the Mediterranean, the Greater Antilles and Brazil.

Keywords: Advertising, Conservation, Costa Cruises, Ecology, Environment, Environmental Protection, Marketing.

This article was prepared by Ecology, Environment & Conservation Business editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2008, Ecology, Environment & Conservation Business via VerticalNews.com.

Subject: Cruise lines; Marketing; Ecology

Location: North America

Publication title: Ecology, Environment & Conservation Business; Atlanta

First page: 209

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 3, 2008

Publisher: NewsRx

Place of publication: Atlanta

Country of publication: United States, Atlanta

Publication subject: Environmental Studies

ISSN: 1945-6867

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: Expanded Reporting

ProQuest document ID: 200204361

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/200204361?accountid=4840

Copyright: (c)Copyright 2008, Ecology, Environment & Conservation Business via VerticalNews.com

Last updated: 2011-06-15

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 104 of 313

Costa Cruises; Maurice Zarmati Named President & CEO of Costa Cruise Lines - North America

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Energy & Ecology ; Atlanta [Atlanta]03 Mar 2008: 30. [Duplicate]

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Costa Cruises has been certified by RINA (Italian Shipping Register) with the BEST4, an integrated system of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards governing social accountability (SA 8000, issued in 2001), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 1996), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, 2000).

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Maurice Zarmati has been named president and CEO of Costa Cruise Lines - North America. Zarmati, who is currently vice president of sales for Carnival Cruise Lines, will assume his new role beginning March 31, 2008. An accomplished sales executive, Zarmati has been with Carnival Cruise Lines since 1972, leading one of the largest and most successful sales teams in North America.

In his new role as president and CEO of Costa Cruise Lines - North America, Zarmati will report directly to Gianni Onorato, president of Costa Crociere, and will be responsible for all sales and marketing efforts for Costa's North and Central American regions. This includes sales development, marketing, revenue management, finance, human resources and passenger services. In the interim before Zarmati begins his position, Joni L. Rein, vice president of sales development and Ruben Perez, vice president of passenger services, will oversee all main functionalities of the Costa North America office.

"Maurice is well known and respected throughout the cruise industry for his numerous accomplishments and successes, so naturally we're thrilled to have him lead up the efforts for our North and Central American markets, which are key to the continued growth and success of the overall Costa Crociere brand," said Onorato. "Maurice brings nearly four decades of experience to the role, having led one of the biggest and best sales teams in North America with our sister company, Carnival Cruise Lines. We look forward to welcoming him to the Costa family in the next month."

Costa Cruises is Italy's and Europe's number one cruise vacation line. For the past 60 years its ships have sailed around the world, offering the best in Italian style, hospitality and cuisine and providing a dream vacation with the utmost in terms of fun and relaxation. In 2007 over 1.1 million Guests chose to cruise with Costa, a record for the European cruise industry. The Company's 12 fleet members, each with her own distinctive characteristics and unique style, all fly the Italian flag and sail to 250 destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, the Caribbean, South America, the United Arab Emirates, the Far East and the Indian Ocean. Five more vessels have been commissioned and will enter service by 2012. Costa Cruises has been certified by RINA (Italian Shipping Register) with the BEST4, an integrated system of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards governing social accountability (SA 8000, issued in 2001), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 1996), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, 2000). All Costa's ships have been awarded RINA's voluntary "Green Star" notation based on the highest environmental protection standards. Costa Cruises is also an official partner of the WWF for the protection of the marine ecoregions of the Mediterranean, the Greater Antilles and Brazil.

Keywords: Advertising, Conservation, Costa Cruises, Ecology, Environment, Environmental Protection, Marketing.

This article was prepared by Energy & Ecology editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2008, Energy & Ecology via VerticalNews.com.

Subject: Cruise lines; Marketing; Ecology

Location: North America

Publication title: Energy & Ecology; Atlanta

First page: 30

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 3, 2008

Publisher: NewsRx

Place of publication: Atlanta

Country of publication: United States, Atlanta

Publication subject: Energy, Environmental Studies

ISSN: 1945-6921

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: Expanded Reporting

ProQuest document ID: 200882978

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/200882978?accountid=4840

Copyright: (c)Copyright 2008, Energy & Ecology via VerticalNews.com

Last updated: 2011-06-14

Database: SciTech Premium Collection

Document 105 of 313

Costa Cruises; Maurice Zarmati Named President & CEO of Costa Cruise Lines - North America

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Energy & Ecology Business ; Atlanta [Atlanta]03 Mar 2008: 391. [Duplicate]

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Costa Cruises has been certified by RINA (Italian Shipping Register) with the BEST4, an integrated system of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards governing social accountability (SA 8000, issued in 2001), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 1996), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, 2000).

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Maurice Zarmati has been named president and CEO of Costa Cruise Lines - North America. Zarmati, who is currently vice president of sales for Carnival Cruise Lines, will assume his new role beginning March 31, 2008. An accomplished sales executive, Zarmati has been with Carnival Cruise Lines since 1972, leading one of the largest and most successful sales teams in North America.

In his new role as president and CEO of Costa Cruise Lines - North America, Zarmati will report directly to Gianni Onorato, president of Costa Crociere, and will be responsible for all sales and marketing efforts for Costa's North and Central American regions. This includes sales development, marketing, revenue management, finance, human resources and passenger services. In the interim before Zarmati begins his position, Joni L. Rein, vice president of sales development and Ruben Perez, vice president of passenger services, will oversee all main functionalities of the Costa North America office.

"Maurice is well known and respected throughout the cruise industry for his numerous accomplishments and successes, so naturally we're thrilled to have him lead up the efforts for our North and Central American markets, which are key to the continued growth and success of the overall Costa Crociere brand," said Onorato. "Maurice brings nearly four decades of experience to the role, having led one of the biggest and best sales teams in North America with our sister company, Carnival Cruise Lines. We look forward to welcoming him to the Costa family in the next month."

Costa Cruises is Italy's and Europe's number one cruise vacation line. For the past 60 years its ships have sailed around the world, offering the best in Italian style, hospitality and cuisine and providing a dream vacation with the utmost in terms of fun and relaxation. In 2007 over 1.1 million Guests chose to cruise with Costa, a record for the European cruise industry. The Company's 12 fleet members, each with her own distinctive characteristics and unique style, all fly the Italian flag and sail to 250 destinations in the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Baltic Sea, the Caribbean, South America, the United Arab Emirates, the Far East and the Indian Ocean. Five more vessels have been commissioned and will enter service by 2012. Costa Cruises has been certified by RINA (Italian Shipping Register) with the BEST4, an integrated system of voluntary certification of corporate compliance with the highest standards governing social accountability (SA 8000, issued in 2001), environment (UNI EN ISO 14001, 1996), safety (OHSAS 18001, 1999) and quality (UNI EN ISO 9001, 2000). All Costa's ships have been awarded RINA's voluntary "Green Star" notation based on the highest environmental protection standards. Costa Cruises is also an official partner of the WWF for the protection of the marine ecoregions of the Mediterranean, the Greater Antilles and Brazil.

Keywords: Advertising, Conservation, Costa Cruises, Ecology, Environment, Environmental Protection, Marketing.

This article was prepared by Energy & Ecology Business editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2008, Energy & Ecology Business via VerticalNews.com.

Subject: Cruise lines; Marketing; Ecology

Location: North America

Publication title: Energy & Ecology Business; Atlanta

First page: 391

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 3, 2008

Publisher: NewsRx

Place of publication: Atlanta

Country of publication: United States, Atlanta

Publication subject: Energy

ISSN: 1945-6948

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: Expanded Reporting

ProQuest document ID: 201559809

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/201559809?accountid=4840

Copyright: (c)Copyright 2008, Energy & Ecology Business via VerticalNews.com

Last updated: 2011-06-14

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 106 of 313

European, South American and Asian ports and itineraries are the hottest things afloat

Author: Creager, Ellen

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune News Service ; Washington [Washington]03 Mar 2008: 1.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

While the Caribbean, Alaska and Mexican Riviera (Pacific coast) remain the top three cruise destinations for Americans, Europe is blossoming and South America and Asia are budding, according to a new survey by Cruise Holidays, the nation's biggest cruise agency.

"Everyone's tired of the same-old, same-old," says Claudia Korenic, operations manager at the Cruise Holidays branch in Shelby Township, Mich.

--More "must-see" ports spread worldwide. Cruise Critic's top ports for 2008 are Amsterdam, Dubrovnik, Hong Kong, Martinique, Maui, Muscat (Oman), Naples (Italy), St. Petersburg (Russia), Sydney and Vancouver. The still fresh Grand Turk port on beautiful Turks and Caicos in the Caribbean is also drawing attention.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

Want to be part of a cruise trend?

Cruise Europe.

Want to be ahead of a cruise trend?

Cruise South America or Asia.

While the Caribbean, Alaska and Mexican Riviera (Pacific coast) remain the top three cruise destinations for Americans, Europe is blossoming and South America and Asia are budding, according to a new survey by Cruise Holidays, the nation's biggest cruise agency.

"Everyone's tired of the same-old, same-old," says Claudia Korenic, operations manager at the Cruise Holidays branch in Shelby Township, Mich.

"South America holds a lot of interest -- Machu Picchu, Chile, waterfalls and Rio. It's different from the Caribbean. We're really getting a lot more diverse. People just want to see more of the world.

"My husband and I were just talking this morning -- should we go to Europe or South America?"

An estimated 12.8 million people will cruise this year, up from 12.6 million in 2007, predicts the trade group Cruise Lines International. About 18 percent will be non-Americans, so expect a greater international flavor even on American-branded ships.

Here's a rundown on cruise trends you'll see this year:

--Still hot Europe. Expect a Mediterranean cruise to cost about $269 per day per person, up from $250 a day in 2007. That's similar to the cost of cruising Alaska ($259 per day) but more than cruising the Caribbean ($159 per day). The cost increase is mainly due to one thing, says Korenic -- supply and demand.

Popular Mediterranean cruises last about 12 days and visit spots like Rome, Turkey and Greece. Northern European Baltic cruises usually stop in ports such as Amsterdam, Scandinavia capitals and St. Petersburg, Russia.

--Interesting South America and Asia cruises. Look hard and be flexible on dates, and you can dig up some great prices, as low as $2,000 for two weeks. The new ship Carnival Splendor launches in July and will sail Baltic cruises in summer, then do three South American cruises in early 2009 -- one from Ft. Lauderdale -- as it repositions to the West Coast for the spring ($1,799-up, see www.carnival.com)

Cruise Holidays reported its South American bookings are up 23 percent this year, taking people to places like Brazil, Argentina and Chile. Its Australia and Asia bookings are up about 10 percent. Asian cruises can take you from busy Hong Kong, Singapore and Shanghai to remote spots in Vietnam and Thailand.

--New destinations even from Florida. An estimated 17 percent of all American adults have already taken a cruise, so cruise lines keep going farther afield for new ports.

One of Korenic's favorite new itineraries is on the Royal Princess, which is doing 14-day cruises round-trip out of Florida that take passengers all the way to French Guiana and the Amazon in Brazil.

--New luxury small ships that appeal to cruisers looking for something new. The Pearl Sea, a 215-passenger ship debuting in August, will ply Atlantic Canada this fall (eight days for about $4,000). The Jewel River Cruises small ship Imperial Blue debuts May 15; it will run 7-day luxury cruises from Paris to Rouen on the Seine (about $5,000; see www.jewelrivercruises.com).

--More "must-see" ports spread worldwide. Cruise Critic's top ports for 2008 are Amsterdam, Dubrovnik, Hong Kong, Martinique, Maui, Muscat (Oman), Naples (Italy), St. Petersburg (Russia), Sydney and Vancouver. The still fresh Grand Turk port on beautiful Turks and Caicos in the Caribbean is also drawing attention.

Luxury cruise line Seabourn will stop this year in ports so obscure that you might not even be able to find them on a map: Opatija and Split in Croatia ; Trieste, Brindisi and Bari, Italy; Lundy Island and Isles of Scilly in Britain; and St. Raphael in France.

--More exotic world cruise itineraries.

--Continuation of "flightseeing" air tours despite four accidents in 2007 that killed 15 people in Alaska and Hawaii.

--Possible softer prices. The poor U.S. economy may mean fewer Americans will be able to afford a cruise later this year despite rosy industry predictions, reports the trade journal Travel Weekly. If that happens, look for discounts.

"I've already seen some phenomenal deals," Korenic says.

Ellen Creager: ecreager@freepress.com(c) 2008, Detroit Free Press.Visit the Freep, the World Wide Web site of the Detroit Free Press, at http://www.freep.com.

Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services.For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Credit: Detroit Free Press

People: Korenic, Claudia

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune News Service; Washington

First page: 1

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 3, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

ProQuest document ID: 456847924

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/456847924?accountid=4840

Copyright: (c) 2008, Detroit Free Press. Distributed by Knight Ridder/TribuneInformation Services.

Last updated: 2018-02-21

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 107 of 313

This Week's Calendar: [FINAL Edition]

Publication info: The Post and Courier ; Charleston, S.C. [Charleston, S.C]06 Mar 2008: E39.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

"Southern Remains" exhibit: Through March 31. Corrigan Gallery, 62 Queen St., Charleston. The gallery presents the first duo show of works by Kevin Bruce Parent and Gordon Nicholson titled "Southern Remains," featuring Parent's soft photographs created by alternative or early tradition photographic methods and Nicholson's brush and pen on paper. Call 722-9868.

"You're a good man, charlie brown": 7 p.m. March 15 and 3 p.m. March 16. South of Broadway Theatre Company Studios, 1080 E. Montague Ave., North Charleston. $12 adults, $5 students. South of Broadway's ShowBiz School presents this musical comedy based on the characters created by cartoonist Charles M. Schulz in his comic strip, "Peanuts." Call 745-0317.

Gibbes Museum of Art: 135 Meeting St. Ongoing exhibition of 'The Charleston Story,' chronicling the history of Charleston through the visual arts from the Colonial period to today. Tours Tues. and Sat. at 2:30 p.m. Open Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sun. 1-5 p.m. $9 adults, $7 seniors, students and military, $5 ages 6-12, free for ages younger than 6. 722-2706. Original Charleston Walks and the Gibbes have teamed to present the Gibbes' Discovery Tour, a 90- minute tour that brings the creative characters of Charleston to life. Professional guides provided by The Original Charleston Walks make the tour a lively blend of art, storytelling and history. Saturdays 10:30 a.m.-noon. $20 fee, includes all-day access to the museum. 800-729-3420 or 577-3800 for reservations.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Editor's note: The deadline for Preview Calendar items is noon Monday the week before the event takes place. Items submitted after the noon deadline will not be printed in the Preview Calendar.

Upcoming

Southern Conference basketball championships: March 6-10. North Charleston Coliseum, 5001 Coliseum Dr. Visit www.socon

sports.com for game times and tickets.

Palmetto pig pick'n championship: March 7-8. Exchange Park, Ladson. Prices vary. This two-day barbecue competition, featuring live entertainment, children's activities and lots of food, is the Olde Charlestowne Sertoma Club's major fundraiser. More than 75 cooking teams from the Southeast, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and as far away as Chicago will compete. Visit www.pigpickn.com for a complete list of scheduled events.

charleston art and antiques forum: March 12-16. Gibbes Museum of Art, 135 Meeting St., Charleston. Enjoy lectures, tours and special events at the 11th annual forum benefiting the Gibbes. Opening Charleston's acclaimed Antiques Week, this year's forum will examine Southern fine and decorative arts in a program entitled "Terra Incognita: New Discoveries and Influences of the South." Visit www.charlestonantiquesforum.org for a complete schedule of events and tickets.

61st annual SPRING festival of houses and gardens: March 13- April 12. $45. The festival showcases six decades of the historic city's accomplishments as a national leader in preservation. Guests are invited to explore the private residential interiors and gardens of 150 of America's most distinctive houses in 11 colonial and antebellum neighborhoods. Call 723-1623 or visit www.historiccharleston.org for tickets; early reservations strongly encouraged.

CSOL Designer showhouse: March 13-April 13. 108 Murray Blvd., Charleston. $20, $15 in advance. Every year, the Charleston Symphony Orchestra League asks talented interior designers to transform the rooms of a downtown home into intriguing spaces for living with furnishings available for purchase. Also, enjoy music by symphony members, alfresco luncheons and a boutique. Call 723-0020 or visit www.csolinc.org.

Charleston international antiques show: March 14-16. The Captain James Missroon House, 40 East Bay St., Charleston. $15 day pass. More than 30 nationally renowned dealers will return for the fifth annual show, featuring a diverse range of antiques from the late 17th century to the early 20th century and including everything from furniture to vintage jewelry. Call 722-3405 or visit www.historiccharleston.org for tickets.

"Tides of march" folly renaissance fest: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. March 15- 16. Folly River Park. Free and open to the public. The Actors' Theatre of South Carolina presents this outdoor crafts festival with musical and theatre performances by Jay Miley, Lisa Morelli and Tyler Ilgen. Sponsored by The Arts and Crafts Guild of Folly Beach. Call 345-8739.

Hooked on books weekend: 10 a.m.-6 p.m. March 15 and noon-5 p.m. March 16. Navy Yard at Noisette, North Charleston. Free admission. More than 32,000 gently used books, CDs, DVDs, videotapes and rare collectibles will be on sale during the event sponsored by the Friends of the Charleston County Library. North Charleston Mayor Keith Summey will open the event at 10 a.m. March 15 with a reading from one of his favorite childhood books. For a list of events, call 805-6978 or visit www.ccpl.org.

stamp and postcard show: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. March 15 and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. March 16. Howard Johnson Inn Airport, 6099 Fain St., North Charleston. Free admission and parking. Buy, sell and trade stamps, postcards and supplies for collectors. Contact Richard's Stamp Shop at (828) 274-3804 or www.richardstampshop.com.

Ongoing

All level yoga: 6:30-7:45 p.m. Mondays through March 31. Summerville Medical Center, 295 Midland Pkwy. $45 for five weeks, prepayment required. This bodywork reduces stress, helps to alleviate neck and back pain and develops strength, flexibility, energy, better balance and posture. Call 832-5000.

all women art exhibit: Through March 31. MUSC Wellness Center, 45 Courtenay Dr., Charleston. Artwork of local female photographers marks Women's History Month. Visit www.c4women.org.

art discovery walking tours: 10:30 a.m. Saturdays. Gibbes Museum of Art, 135 Meeting St. Charleston. $20. This 90-minute tour highlights the many historic sites that have inspired artists for centuries. View artistic treasures at the Gibbes and then walk in the footsteps of the artists who created them. Reservations made through The Original Charleston Walks at www.charlestonwalks.com or 729-3420.

Ballroom Dance Club: 7:30-11 p.m. Saturdays and first and third Fridays of the month. Ballroom Dance Club, 1632 Ashley Hall Road, West Ashley. $8, $5 students. Join the Ballroom Dance Club for an hourlong group lesson and dance party. Visit www.ballroomdanceclub.org.

Ballroom Dance Parties: Every weekend (except holidays). Creative Spark Center for the Arts, 757 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant. $10 (cost may be increased for theme or dinner parties). Participate in an adult ballroom dance party, with group lessons beforehand. For a schedule, call 881-3780 or visit www.creativespark.org.

belly dance for health and happiness: 10:30-11:30 a.m. Saturdays, March 8, 15 or 5:30-6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, March 4-18. Trident HealthFinders, 9330 Medical Plaza Dr., Charleston. $10 per class. Get your shimmy on with a Belly Dance Burn, a low-impact, high- energy workout. Call 797-FIND.

black history month exhibit: Through March 9. The City Gallery at Waterfront Park, 34 Prioleau St., Charleston. Presenting Lou Stovall, "Artist and the Landscape," and Gary Grier, "Room Full of Mirrors." Call 958-6486.

bluegrass society: 7-10 p.m. Thursdays. Holiday Inn Ocean Deck Lounge, 1 Center St., Folly Beach. Free. The Folly Beach Bluegrass Society performs for a "Bluegrass Open Stage." Bring an acoustic instrument. Call 345-1678.

business network international meeting: 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Wednesdays. The Crab Shack (upstairs), 1901 Ashley River Road, West Ashley. Join the Ashley River Chapter for its weekly meeting. Call Nancy Green at 364-8465.

camellia walks at middleton place: Beginning 11 a.m. Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays through March 29. Middleton Place, 4300 Ashley River Road, Charleston. Free with regular admission. View thousands of blossoms and learn more about the flowers on a 1 1/2- hour Camellia Walk. Reservations requested. Call 556-6020 or visit www.middletonplace.org.

clothes to dye for: Through April 18. The Charleston Museum, 360 Meeting St. Learn about four centuries of garments worn by Charlestonians and dyeing processes used to achieve the rich shades and hues. Curator-led tours are available the first Thursday of the month throughout the exhibit's run and are free with general admission. Call 722-2996 or visit www.charlestonmuseum.org.

"The Complete History of Charleston For Morons" Walking Tour: Saturdays. Charleston Legends and Lore Ghosts Theater, 161 Church St. $16. Begin with a 35-minute, one-man version of the popular "Morons" show and then tour the historic French Quarter. Call 937- 0916 or visit www.charlestonlegends andlore.com.

dangerous book club: 3:30-4:30 p.m. Wednesdays. Charleston County Main Library, 68 Calhoun St., Charleston. Explore something new every week, from knot tying to stargazing, from "The Dangerous Book for Boys." Call 805-6930.

dangerous boys club: 7:30 p.m. the first Friday of each month. Mount Pleasant Barnes & Noble, 1716 Towne Centre Way. Community leaders will host meetings based on a variety of activities, including The Golden Age of Piracy, The Basic Rules of Soccer and How to Play Table Football. Based on the best-selling book "The Dangerous Book for Boys" by brothers Conn and Hal Iggulden. Call 216- 9756.

early morning bird walks: 8:30 a.m.-noon. Wednesdays and Saturdays. Caw Caw Interpretive Center, 5200 Savannah Hwy., Ravenel. $5, free for Gold Pass holders. You'll walk through many distinct habitats, allowing you to view and discuss a variety of birds, butterflies and other organisms. Preregistration encouraged, but walk-ins welcome. Call 795-4FUN or visit www.ccprc.com.

"Father and son" exhibit: March 7-21. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday- Saturday. Wells Gallery, 125 Meeting St., Charleston. The gallery presents "Father and Son," an exhibition of new work by internationally renowned figurative painter Glenn Harrington and his son, emerging still-life painter Evan Harrington. This is the inaugural exhibition for the Well's Gallery new location on Meeting Street. Call 843-3233 or visit www.wellsgallery.com.

the gathering book group: 7 p.m. the last Thursday of each month. Barnes & Noble, 1716 Towne Centre Way, Mount Pleasant. Call the store at 216-9756 to find out this month's title.

The great state museum leprechaun hunt: Through March 31. South Carolina State Museum, 301 Gervais St., Columbia. Hunt for hidden leprechauns throughout the museum. Ask for a clue sheet at the Front Desk and claim your reward at the Cotton Mill Exchange at the end of the hunt. Call 803-898-5397.

hilton head international piano competition: Through March 10. First Presbyterian Church, 540 William Hilton Pkwy., Hilton Head Island. Ticket prices vary. With 20 contestants from around the world competing for $33,000 in prizes plus performance engagements in a new four-round format, the Southeast Tourism Society named the Hilton Head International Piano Competition one of the top 20 events in the Southeast for March 2008. Call 842-2055 or visit www.hhipc.org for tickets.

"hollywood comes to S.C.": 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 1- 5 p.m. Sunday through Oct. 19. South Carolina State Museum, 301 Gervais St., Columbia. $3 plus regular museum admission. This exhibit showcases the movies produced in South Carolina over the past 100 years. Call 803-898-4921 or visit www.southcarolinastatemuseum.org.

international association of administrative professionals: 6:45 p.m. third Monday of each month. Radisson Hotel, 5991 Rivers Ave., North Charleston. Free. The Charleston Chapter offers dinner before the meeting at 6 p.m. for $15. Call 958-4141.

Jazzed series: 5 p.m. (one hour prior to Jazz Vespers) the second Sunday of each month. Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting St., Charleston. Free. Presented as a community partnership of the Charleston Concert Association, Circular Congregational Church and Charleston Jazz Initiative. Call 571-7755.

jonathan green week: Through March 8. Times, venues and prices vary. Jonathan Green Week is a collaboration between the city of Charleston, the Gibbes Museum of Art, the Charleston County Public Library, the Charleston Jazz Initiative and the Coastal Community Foundation, involving a series of events throughout Charleston that celebrate the artist and his contributions to cultural life in the Lowcountry. Visit www.jonathangreenweek.com.

"KidStory": Charleston Museum, 360 Meeting St. $7, $6 students, $4 children under 12. Children will learn about the history of Charleston and the Lowcountry. Call two weeks in advance to schedule a tour of this hands-on exhibit. Call 722-2996 or visit www.charlestonmuseum.org.

mended hearts support group: 6:30-8 p.m. the third Thursday of each month. Irene Dixon Auditorium of Roper Hospital, Charleston. Chapter 266 Cardiac support group offers hope and encouragements to heart disease patients and their families. Includes a "heart smart" meal. Call 556-0368.

modern dance class for adults: 6:30-8 p.m. Wednesdays. Creative Spark, 757 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant. $12 per class/$40 per month. Jocelyn Nugent brings her broad background to a class aimed at developing creative minds and bodies using interesting music and movement ideas. Call 881-370 or visit www.creativespark.org.

Monday Night Blues: 8 p.m., open mike 9 p.m. Mondays. East Bay Meeting House, 159 East Bay St., Charleston. Free. The city's longest-running weekly literary event includes a featured poet reading. Musicians are welcome. Free. Call 853-9332 or 723-3446.

"Natures's Dance" Exhibit: March 7-31. Hamlet Fine Art Gallery, 7 Broad St., Charleston. Celebrate the new works of Melinda Lewin in an exhibit titled "Nature's Dance Revealed," inspired by the beauty of nature, with emphasis on florals and landscapes. Call 722-1944 or visit www.hamletgallery.com.

"Nature's Palette" exhibit: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Saturday through March. Courtyard Art Gallery, 149 1/2 East Bay St., Charleston. Featuring works by Helen K. Beacham. Call 723-9172.

"New Structures" exhibit: Noon-5 p.m. Wednesday-Saturday. Redux Contemporary Art Center, 136 St. Philip St., Charleston. Free. This two-man exhibition investigates the role of structures in the public and private realms, featuring artists Blake Hurt and Todd McDonald. Call 722-0697 or visit www.reduxstudios.org.

nia dancing for better health: 9:30-10:30 a.m. Fridays, March 7- 28. Trident HealthFinders, 9330 Medical Plaza Drive, Charleston. $36 for the four-week session or $10 per class. For those with reduced mobility but who want to increase activity level, stamina and flexibility. Call 797-7000.

Nia Dancing thru life: 6:45-7:45 p.m. Tuesdays, through March 25. Trident HealthFinders, 9330 Medical Plaza Drive, Charleston. $36 for the four-week session or $10 per class. This high-energy class offers a variety of movement routines designed to energize and invigorate the body while stimulating mind, emotions and spirituals connections. Call 797-7000.

Outdoor sculpture competition: Through March 28. North Charleston Riverfront Park. North Charleston's second annual Outdoor Sculpture Competition and Exhibition features 13 sculptures by 13 artists from 10 states. Call 754-1089 or visit www.northcharleston.org.

photography exhibit: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday and 1-5 p.m. Sunday. Gibbes Museum, 135 Meeting St., Charleston. $9, $7 seniors, students and military, $5 children under 12. Since the 1960s, artist William Christenberry has photographed the American South, focusing on landmarks such as kudzu, churches, graves and architecture in his Alabama hometown. Enjoy his exhibit, "William Christenberry: Photographs, 1961-2005." Call 722-2706 or visit www.gibbesmuseum.org.

The Poetry Show: 9 p.m. the last Friday of each month. Sonia's Manila Grill, 3381 Ashley Phosphate Road, North Charleston. $5. The show offers culture and expression through the body and words. Call Carlos Johnson at 406-3959.

power of positive painting classes: 1-4 p.m. Thursdays. The Meeting Place, 1077 E. Montague Ave., North Charleston. $150 for six classes. The North Charleston Cultural Arts Department offers classes, led by Robert Maniscalco, to teach students to think like a painter by breaking down the fundamentals of painting. Call 745- 1087 or visit www.northcharleston.org.

"Purse universe" Exhibit: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday, through April. Center for Women, 129 Cannon St., Charleston. Free. Photographer, writer and poet Barbara Hagerty created a photo exhibit for the publication of her book, "Purse Universe." Call 763-7333 or visit www.c4women.org.

salsa class and party: 7:30 p.m. Mondays. Arthur Murray Studio, 1706 Old Towne Road, West Ashley. $8. Participate in a group salsa class for beginners and advanced participants followed by a practice party. Call 571-6500 or e-mail arthurmurray@bellsouth.net.

salsa night at Southend brewery: 10 p.m. Thursdays. Southend Brewery, 161 East Bay St., Charleston. $4 cover. DJ Luigi mixes live as the crowd dances to salsa, merengue, bachata and raggaeton. Call 853-4677.

"Sculpture and Woodworking" Exhibit: Through March 6. Colleton Center Gallery, 494 Hampton St., Walterboro. Free. The exhibit consists of carved fantasy staffs inspired by computer games, books and fanciful found-object sculptures. Call 549-1922.

Sea Turtle Hospital tours: 1 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays. S.C. Aquarium hospital, 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston. $8 ages 2-11, $16 adults, $14 seniors 62 and older. Behind-the-scenes tours of the aquarium offer visitors a look at the efforts of the staff as it cares for sick and injured turtles through the Sea Turtle Rescue Program. Reservations recommended by calling 577-3474.

"Seeking" Exhibition: Through Aug. 31. Gibbes Museum of Art, 135 Meeting St., Charleston. Featuring Jonathan Green's painting, "Seeking," this exhibition explores personal discovery through art. Call 722-2706 or visit www.gibbesmuseum.org.

shag for adults classes: 6:30-8 p.m. Fridays. North Charleston Cultural and Civic Center Complex on the former Charleston Naval Base. $185 for an eight-week session. The North Charleston Cultural Arts Department offers classes teaching the basic steps of the state dance. No partner necessary. Registration required one week prior to first class. Call 745-1087 or visit www.northcharleston.org.

"Soft Light" Exhibit: March 7-30. Sylvan Gallery, 171 King St., Charleston. The gallery presents new works by Joan Potter and Nancy Bush in a show titled "Soft Light," featuring warm and welcoming landscapes and still lifes that evoke a sense of coming home to a safe haven. Call 722-2172.

"Southern Remains" exhibit: Through March 31. Corrigan Gallery, 62 Queen St., Charleston. The gallery presents the first duo show of works by Kevin Bruce Parent and Gordon Nicholson titled "Southern Remains," featuring Parent's soft photographs created by alternative or early tradition photographic methods and Nicholson's brush and pen on paper. Call 722-9868.

sporting artist exhibit: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Friday and 11 a.m.- 5 p.m. Saturday through March 15. The Dog and Horse Fine Art and Portraiture Sculpture Garden, 106-B Church St., Charleston. Beth Carlson's third annual exhibition. Visit www.dogartdealer.com.

square dance class: 7:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Felix Davis Community Center (Park Circle), North Charleston. Learn how to perform a basic square dance. Call 552-3630.

Ted's butcherblock wine tastings: 5-7 p.m. Fridays. Ted's Butcherblock, 334 East Bay St., Charleston. $5 donation to go toward featured charity Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art. Sample an artisan cheese plate and different appetizers, which will be available for sale, to pair with featured wines. Call 577-0094.

welded sculptures: 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tuesday-Friday, noon-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday. The City Gallery at Waterfront Park, 34 Prioleau St., Charleston. Free. The gallery presents "The Softness of Iron: Welded Sculptures by Orna Ben-Ami." Call 958-6484.

Today

finding donors seminar: 8:30-10:30 a.m. YMCA, 61 Cannon St., Charleston. Free. Learn how to find donors for your charitable or nonprofit organization who believe in your mission and love the work that you do at Benevon's seminar, "Major Gifts: Find the Perfect Donors." Call 709-9400, ext. 104.

opening reception: 5-6:30 p.m. MUSC Wellness Center, 45 Courtenay Dr., Charleston. Free. Celebrate the opening of the "All Women Art Exhibit," featuring artwork of local female photographers in honor of Women's History Month. Call 763-7333 or visit www.c4women.org.

Water for life gala: 6 p.m. Charleston Place Hotel, 205 Meeting St. $150. Barrier Island presents Water Missions International's gala featuring a seated dinner and silent and live auctions. Proceeds support WMI's work to provide sustainable access to safe water in developing countries and disaster areas. Call 769-7395 for tickets.

the charlestonian meeting: 6-8 p.m. Charleston Gas Light, 211 Meeting St. Visit www.thecharlestonian.com.

middle east studies student association meeting: 6:15 p.m. The Citadel, 171 Moultrie St., Charleston. Free and open to the public. The first in a two-part series on the Palestinian-Israeli conflict, the meeting will cover the conflict from a Jewish/Israeli perspective, featuring guest speaker Morey Lipton of the Jewish Federation and Middle East correspondent for the Charleston Mercury newspaper. Call 953-6779.

ladies' martini night: 7 p.m. The Charleston Grill at Charleston Place, 205 Meeting St. $48 members, $58 nonmembers. WineDineWine presents a sampling of three signature martinis paired with fruits, nuts, cheeses and petit fours. Call 810-0088 or e-mail winedinewine@comcast.net to register.

lecture and book signing: 7 p.m. Charleston Library Society, 164 King St. Free. Caroline Cousins (Meg Herndon, Gail Greer and Nancy Pate) will discuss and sign their newest book, "Way Down Dead in Dixie." RSVP to 723-9912.

carolina studios presents sam bush: Doors open 7 p.m., show 8:15 p.m. Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St. $33. The concert features three-time Grammy Award winner Sam Bush, along with a special performance from the Carolina Studios participants. Visit www.etix.com for tickets and www.carolinastudios.net for more information.

Friday

senior covered dish luncheon: 11:45 a.m. Alhambra Hall senior room, 131 Middle St., Mount Pleasant. Free. Bring a side dish or dessert to share; the main course is provided. Everyone is welcome. Call 856-2166 or visit www.townofmountpleasant.com.

babes on a budget drop-in: 2-6:30 p.m. Victoria's Consignments, 920 Houston Northcutt Blvd., Mount Pleasant. Free. This WineDineWine benefit will raise awareness of MUSC's neonatal intensive care unit with a percentage of the day's sales being donated to the unit. Enjoy a champagne reception for the boutique's opening of the spring designer collection. RSVP to 810-0088 or

winedinewine@comcast.net.

Book signing: 4 p.m. Barnes & Noble, 1812 Sam Rittenberg Blvd., West Ashley. Free. Kathryn Ireland, who is among the world's most influential interior and fabric designers, will sign her new design book, "Classic Country." Call 556-6561.

first friday on broad: 5-7 p.m. Participating galleries, boutiques and bodegas on Gallery Row, historic Broad Street, will feature demonstrations, entertainment, food and wine tastings. This month, Mary Martin will feature Amy Guion Clay, encaustic on panel.

French quarter art walk: 5-8 p.m. The French Quarter Gallery Association begins celebrating its 20th anniversary with its Spring Art Walk. Stroll the cobbled streets and gas-lit alleyways of the original walled city to discover the works of hundreds of artists representing a variety of styles and mediums from traditional to contemporary. Participating galleries are on Meeting, Church, State, East Bay, Broad, Cumberland, Chalmers and Tradd streets. Call 577- 7101 or visit www.frenchquarterarts.com for maps of the galleries.

artist reception: 5-8 p.m. Charleston Artist Guild Gallery, 6 N. Atlantic Wharf. Celebrate the opening of works by Marty Biernbaum titled "Pear Lady: A Celebration of Feminist Mystique," inspired by the honest beauty of a real woman with a full figure, an intelligent, curious mind and a sense of humor. Call 722-2454.

opening reception: 5-8 p.m. Sylvan Gallery, 171 King St., Charleston. Celebrate the opening of works by Joan Potter and Nancy Bush, "Soft Light," featuring landscapes and still lifes. Call 722- 2172.

opening reception: 5-8 p.m. Corrigan Gallery, 62 Queen St., Charleston. The gallery presents the first duo show of works by Kevin Bruce Parent and Gordon Nicholson titled "Southern Remains." Call 722-9868.

opening reception: 5-8 p.m. Hamlet Fine Art Gallery, 7 Broad St., Charleston. Celebrate the opening of works titled "Nature's Dance Revealed," featuring Melinda Lewin's works inspired by the beauty of nature, with emphasis on florals and landscapes. Call 722-1944 or visit www.hamletgallery.com.

Family fun night: 5:30-7:30 p.m. The Sandbox, 18A Pope Ave, Hilton Head Island. Free. Families will enjoy face-painting, spring crafts, ball toss and bowling games, hot dogs, cotton candy and drinks. Call 842-7645.

family fun night at the rec: 6:30-8:30 p.m. R.L. Jones Center, 391 Egypt Road, Mount Pleasant. Free. Bring friends and family for a night of swimming and games. Floats and water toys welcome. Call 884- 2528 or visit www.townofmountpleasant.com.

organic oregon dinner: 7 p.m. Middleton Place Restaurant, 4300 Ashley River Road, Charleston. $65 per person, includes gratuity. Enjoy this four-course dinner with wine pairings from the Maysara Winery in McMinnville, Ore., which practices holistic farming. Call 266-7463 for reservations.

special olympics midwinter games: 7 p.m. The Citadel, 171 Moultrie St., Charleston. Come support more than 600 athletes as they compete in badminton, basketball, masters bowling, power- lifting, table tennis and team handball. The games commence with the torch run and opening ceremony. Call 852-9275 or visit www.so- sc.org.

southern circuit tour of independent filmmakers: 8 p.m. Simons Center for the Arts at the College of Charleston, Room 309, 54 St. Philip St. Free. Following a screening of Nybo and Simon Umlauf's film, "Guerrilla Radio: The Hip-Hop Struggle Under Castro," the duo will discuss the film and their work as filmmakers. Call 953-7891.

old school hip-hop concert: 8-11 p.m. Gaillard Auditorium, 77 Calhoun St., Charleston. $30 and $40, $60 VIP (includes Crown Royal and heavy hors d'oeuvres). As part of Black Expo '08, featuring Doug E. Fresh, MC Lyte, Big Daddy Kane and Whodini. Call 747-1442 for VIP tickets. Call 577-7400 or visit www.ticketmasters.com for regular tickets.

karma art exposition and dance: Doors open at 9:30 p.m. Toucan Reef, 360 Concord St., Charleston. $10 entry with first drink. U- topia events and Groovers, in collaboration with Biton, present a night of photography and new media artists mixed with DJs spinning the best house music in town with live instruments. Tables with champagne service available. Call 513-8055 for reservations and guest list.

Rocky horror at the terrace: Doors open 11:30 p.m., pre-show at midnight, movie starts 12:15 a.m. Terrace Theater, 1956 Maybank Hwy., James Island. $8. Survival kits, including toast, newspaper, water pistol, rubber glove and stale popcorn (no rice please) available for $3. Call 762-9494.

Saturday

water for life walk: 9 a.m. Hazel Parker Playground, 70 East Bay St., Charleston. Presented by Water Missions International, this 3- mile walk is inspired by the experience of women and children who fetch water for their families daily. We encourage walkers to form teams and raise support to bring these families clean water. Call 769-7395 or visit www.watermissions.org.

micro soccer festival: 9 a.m. Park West Recreation Complex, Mount Pleasant. Free. Enjoy the kick-off event with games and activities for all registered FUNdamental youth soccer players for the Mount Pleasant Recreation Department. Parents and spectators welcome. Call 884-2528 or visit www.mpsoccer.com.

Sea Kayak Instructional class: 9 a.m.-1 p.m. James Island County Park, 871 Riverland Dr. $36, $30 CCR discount. Ages 16 and up. Let our ACA-certified instructors help you learn basic strokes and skills using a variety of boats in the entry-level course. Call 795- 4FUN or visit www.ccprc.com.

toy soldier show and sale: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Omar Shrine Temple, 176 Patriots Point St., Mount Pleasant. $3, free for children under 12. There will be 50 tables of toys soldiers, miniature army cannons and vehicles, military history books for sale and several miniature dioramas on display. Call 412-3593 or visit www.angelfire.com/ planet/scmms.

antique auction: 9 a.m. doors, auction 10 a.m.-until. National Guard Armory, 849 Cottageville Hwy., North Charleston. Free. Auction to benefit St. Paul's Academy in Hollywood. Public and dealers welcome. Call 693-1304.

spring swamp survey: 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Caw Caw Interpretive Center, 5200 Savannah Hwy., Ravenel. $9, $7 CCR discount. Ages 9 and up. Enjoy the Lowcountry cypress-tupelo swamps offering a multitude of natural wonders and featuring reminders of the bygone era of rice and slaves. Call 795-4FUN or visit www.ccprc.com.

basics of backpacking: 10 a.m.-3 p.m. CCPRC Headquarters, 861 Riverland Dr., James Island. $24, $20 CCR discount. Ages 18 and up. Learn about the essential skills and equipment needed for backpacking, plus get hands-on experience setting up tents and choosing gear that's right for you. Call 795-4FUN or visit www.ccprc.com.

Figure-drawing marathon: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Gibbes Museum of Art, 135 Meeting St., Charleston. $25 nonmembers, $20 members, $15 students. Choose your studio and work from the figure (nude and costumed) in gradual movement, 10-minute, 30-minute and 1-hour poses. Painters and sculptors welcome. Call 722-2706 ext. 23 to register.

pruning seminar: 11 a.m.-noon. Down to Earth, 215 Coleman Blvd., Mount Pleasant. Free. Horticulturist Jason London leads this pruning demonstration and discussion. RSVP to 881-4885 or katie@downtoearthliving.com.

The cinderella Project: Boutique open 11 a.m.-3 p.m. The Outreach Learning Center at St. Matthew's Lutheran Church, 405 King St., Charleston. Formal dresses and accessories are being collected 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Monday-Thursday and will be available for pick up at no charge from the Cinderella Boutique. The national project is dedicated to building the self-esteem of teenage girls by providing them with beautiful formal wear for their prom. Call 579-0420 or visit www.connectinghands.org.

black expo '08: 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Charleston Area Convention Center, Coliseum Drive. $10, $5 children 5-12. Featuring Earl G. Graves, founder and publisher of Black Enterprise, actor Idris Elba and singer Tye Tribbett. Call 747-1442.

introduction to climbing: 1-4 p.m. James Island County Park, 871 Riverland Dr. $24, $20 CCR discount. Ages 14 and up. Learn about knots, harnesses, belaying, climbing. Call 795-4FUN or visit www.ccprc.com.

shuckin' in the park oyster roast: 1-6 p.m. Old Santee Canal Park, 900 Stoney Landing Road, Moncks Corner. $3-$5. Featuring a jump castle for the children, entertainment by the Custom 4+2 Band, playing beach music, oldies and popular music and great food. Small coolers are allowed, but no pets. Call 899-5200.

Gullah heritage program: 2 p.m. Charles Pinckney National Historic Site, 1254 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant. Free. Featuring quilting and toys with Vermelle and Andrew Rodrigues, a sweetgrass basket demonstration with Vera Manigault, stories and skits with "Sista, Sista" and cast netmaking and woodwork with Charles C. Williams. Call 881-5516 or visit www.nps.gov/chpi.

live bird program: 2 p.m. Sewee Visitor and Environmental Education Center, 5821 S.C. Highway 17 North, Awendaw. Free. Presented by The Center for Birds of Prey, learn amazing facts and learn how can be a volunteer at the facility that treats injured raptors. Call 928-3368.

bird identification walk: 2 p.m. Sewee Visitor and Environmental Center, 5821 S.C. Highway 17 North, Awendaw. $3. Registration required by March 6. Learn how to identify birds by looking at their size, shape, markings and beaks. The class begins with an education segment then heads out for a walk. Finally, you'll make a feeder out of recycled materials. Call 928-3368.

book signing: 2-4 p.m. Barnes & Noble, 1716 Towne Centre Way, Mount Pleasant. Free. Nick Smith will be signing copies of his new novel, Undead on Arrival. Call 216-9756.

billy jonas Kids Rock concert: 3 p.m. Wando High School Performing Arts Center, 1000 Warrior Way, Mount Pleasant. $10 per child, free for accompanying adults. Billy Jonas, known by thousands of area children for his "singalong, banaglong, whisperalong" concerts will appear in a family concert with opening set by local favorite Sol Driven Train. Call 881-3780 for tickets.

historical marker unveiling: 3 p.m. Near 2390 W. Aviation Ave., Exit 211-A from Interstate 26, North Charleston. Free. The Michaux Garden Committee of the Charleston Horticultural Society will unveil a highway marker for the "French Botanical Garden" of Andre Michaux, 1786-1803. Call 722-3508.

road rally and oyster roast: 3:30 p.m. Charleston Area Visitors Center, 31 Ann St. Call for price. Sponsored by LifeManagement Center, this is a scavenger hunt with clues given for drivers to decode and great prizes to be had. Call 852-5705 or visit www.lifemanagement.org.

Krystaal in concert: 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. Charleston Music Hall, 37 John St. $15, $10 each for groups of 10 or more. Water Missions International presents the award-winning, Congolese, contemporary Christian music group, Krystaal, that excels in various genres, including R&B/pop, gospel, urban and world (African). Call 769-7395 or visit www.watermissions.org.

S.C. Academy of Authors induction ceremony: 7 p.m. Riverview Room, The Citadel, 171 Moultrie St., Charleston. $35. James Oliver Rigney Jr. will be inducted into the academy's Literary Hall of Fame. Rigney is best known as fantasy author Robert Jordan. Call 762- 9729.

Benefit concert: 8 p.m. Gage Hall Coffeehouse, 4 Archdale St., Charleston. $10, $5 students. The Hungry Monks will perform folk and Celtic favorites to support Charleston area after-school programs. Gourmet coffee, donated by Earth Fare, and home-baked desserts will be served. Call 224-4472.

Sunday

garden tour: 1-4 p.m. tour, 3:30-5:30 p.m. cocktail reception. $60, reservations required. This year's self-guided Emily Whaley Memorial Garden Tour's theme is "Charleston Gardens by the Sea," and features 10 gardens on Church and East Bay streets. Each of the featured gardens will show special techniques for coping with the challenges of the sea: wind, salt spray, sun and aridity. Call 953- 7691 for reservations and a list of gardens.

Sierra club oyster roast and auction: 2-5 p.m. Bowen's Island Restaurant, 1870 Bowen's Island Road, off Folly Road, James Island. $20 adults, $15 students, $5 children 6-12, free for children under 6. Enjoy oysters, chili, hot dogs and Ben & Jerry's ice cream. Draft beer available for $2 a cup. Open to the public. Call 343-3580 for tickets.

Jazz-ed: 5 p.m. Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting St., Charleston. Free. Learn more about jazz from guest speaker vocalist Leah Suarez, who will discuss the art of creating original compositions that blend music and poetry from around the world. Call 571-7755.

Jazz Vespers: 6 p.m. Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting St., Charleston. Free. Feel the Latin beat as vocalist Leah Suarez blends jazz, samba, bossa noval and bolero sounds with a mix of rearranged standards, folk and world music. Call 571-7755.

Soup-A-Bowl Benefit: 5-8 p.m. Fire & Earth Pottery, 1417 Ashley River Road, Charleston. $30. The soup and dessert reception benefits the Hollings Cancer Center. Attendees take home a beautiful handmade bowl. Call 792-6966.

Monday

teen art after school: 3:30-5:30 p.m. The Meeting Place, 1077 E. Montague Ave., North Charleston. Free. Artist-in-Residence Karen DeLoach offers teens 13-18 the opportunity to develop skills in the visual arts. Call 745-1087.

Opera lecture: 6 p.m. Charleston County Public Library, 68 Calhoun St. Free. This preview lecture of the Metropolitan Opera's simulcast performance of "Peter Grimes" includes video clips, recording and discussion by Walter Boyce, formerly of Boston Conservatory and Boston Lyric Opera. Simulcast follows. Visit www.southofbroadway.com.

Photography lecture: 7 p.m. Alterman Studios, 654-D King St., Charleston. Free. As part of its Second Monday Lecture Series, The Center for Photography hosts photographer Gian Luigi Scarfiotti. Call 577-0647 or visit www.center4photography.com.

a capella concert: 8 p.m. Recital Hall of the Simons Center for the Arts, 54 St. Philip St., Charleston. $5, free for students with valid ID. Enjoy this performance by student ensemble Chucktown Trippin' Tones, featuring a variety of favorites by The Beach Boys, Billy Joel, Blink 182, Elton John, Journey, Moxy Fruvous and more. Call 953-8228.

Tuesday

"Under the sombrero": 10 a.m. Creative Spark, 757 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant. $5 per child, free for accompanying adults. North Carolina Touring Theater presents a collection of songs, poems, sayings and stories celebrating the Latino cultures told in English and Spanish by four actors in colorful costumes. Call 881- 3780 or visit www.creativespark.org or www.ttenc.org.

st. Luke's recital series: 12:15 p.m. St. Luke's Chapel, MUSC, Ashley Avenue at Bee Street. Free. Presenting William D. Gudger, organist. Call 792-6775.

after-school mountain bike: 3:30-6 p.m. Palmetto Islands County Park, 444 Needlerush Pkwy., Mount Pleasant. $10, $8 CCR discount. Ages 10-12. Learn biking terms and techniques and have a chance to ride the park trails. Bikes and helmet provided. Call 795-4FUN or visit www.ccprc.com.

employment law clinic: 5:30-7 p.m. Center for Women, 129 Cannon St., Charleston. Free. Charles F. Castner, Esq. will speak, in cooperation with the S.C. Bar Pro Bono Program. Registration required by calling 763-7333.

ASID DESIGNER MINI artwalk on gallery row: 5:30-8:30 p.m. Start at John Carroll Doyle Gallery, 54 Broad St., Charleston. Held for the South Carolina branch of the American Society of Interior Design, participants will enjoy a reception followed by a visit to Ella Walton Richardson Gallery and a stroll down Gallery Row, ending at Hamlet Fine Art Gallery. Call 722-1944.

"On the nature of community" lecture series: 6 p.m. The Creek Club at I'On, 44 Saturday Road, Mount Pleasant. Free and open to the public. The first in a two-part series,

Sheila Wertimer and Macky Hill will discuss the interaction of landscape with the build environment, and how it is at work in I'On. Next lecture: March 25. Call 881-7541.

"A Night with our Novelists": 6:30 p.m. Graham Copeland Auditorium in Grimsley Hall at The Citadel, 171 Moultrie St., Charleston. Free. Alan Cambeira and Eloy Urroz of The Citadel Modern Languages Department will discuss their novels. Call 953-2155.

kayak navigation class: 7-9 p.m. Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission Headquarters, 861 Riverland Dr., James Island. $24, $20 CCR discount. Ages 26 and up. Learn about dead reckoning and declination, differences between charts and maps and rules of the nautical road. Call 795-4FUN or visit www.ccprc.com.

"Czech virtuoso-piano music" concert: 7:30 p.m. Lightsey Chapel at Charleston Southern University. Free. Critically acclaimed pianist and one of CSU's newer faculty members, David Gross, will perform works of Smetana, among others. Call 863-7966.

jazz concert: 8 p.m. Recital Hall at Simons Center for the Arts, 54 St. Philip St., Charleston. $5, free for students with valid ID. The College of Charleston Department of Music presents Frank Duvall Jazz. Call 953-5927.

Wednesday

Wildlife and history day: Huntington Beach State Park, 16148 Ocean Hwy., Pawleys Island. Exhibit is free with regular admission to park. Visit the Sewee Center exhibit and pick up information about the Forest and Refuge. A planned day of natural and cultural history is set in the courtyard of Atalaya, the Huntington's former home.

north area business council: 7:30-9 a.m. Charleston Area Convention Center, 5000 Coliseum Dr., North Charleston. Presented by the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce, the topic is "Noisette Update." Visit www.charlestonchamber.net.

crafts, stories and live bunnies: 10 a.m.-noon. Old Santee Canal Park Interpretive Center, 900 Stony Landing Road, Moncks Corner. $5. Enjoy some toddler time with your child (ages 3-5) as we read a story, make a bunny craft and have a visit from some live rabbits. Call 899-5200 or visit www.oldsanteecanalpark.org.

Easter egg hunt: 11 a.m. Alhambra Hall Park, 131 Middle St., Mount Pleasant. Free. Ages 6 and under. There will be a jump castle and much more. Call 884-2528 or visit www.townofmountpleasant.com.

jewish studies brown bag lunch lecture: 12:30-1:30 p.m. Arnold Hall at College of Charleston, 96 Wentworth St. Free. Facilitator Joshua Shanes, professor of Jewish Studies, presents the last session of "In and Out of the Shtetl: Jewish Life in Eastern Europe." Call 953-3918.

after-school mountain bike: 3:30-6 p.m. James Island County Park, 871 Riverland Dr. $10, $8 CCR discount. Ages 10-12. Learn biking terms and techniques and have a chance to ride the park trails. Bikes and helmet provided. Call 795-4FUN or visit www.ccprc.com.

Business after hours party: 5:30-7 p.m. 3875 Meeting St., North Charleston. $20 at door, $15 Chamber member discount with reservations before March 10. Join the Charleston Metro Chamber of Commerce for its "Snyder Event Rentals: BAH and Customer Appreciation Party." Call 805-3094 or visit www.charlestonchamber.net.

Charleston Audubon lecture series: 6:30 p.m. reception, 7 p.m. lecture. Charleston County Public Library, 68 Calhoun St. Free. Dr. Melissa Hughes, professor of ornithology at College of Charleston, will discuss the "Hows and Whys of Birdsongs." Call 805-6930.

Book discussion: 7 p.m. Charleston County Public Library, 68 Calhoun St. Free and open to the public. The book is Virginia Woolf's A Room of Her Own. Call 805-6811 or visit www.ccpl.org.

The Chapion's Wine Dinner: 7 p.m. Atlanticville Restaurant & Wine, 2063 Middle St., Sullivan's Island. $49 plus tax and gratuity for WineDine

Wine members, $59 plus tax and gratuity for nonmembers. Experience this four-course wine dinner designed by the winning chef of the Chef's Challenge Wine Dinner on Jan. 30, Chef Daniel Nieders. RSVP to 810-0088 or winedinewine@comcast.net.

March 13

balance work and family: Noon. Center for Women, 129 Cannon St., Charleston. Free. As part of its Brown Bag Lunch Series, the Center for Women presents a panel discussion with Kamee Bowlin, Dixon Hughes; Christy Schachte, MoM Spa; and Ruth Smythe, Lane and Smythe Real Estate. Call 763-7333 or visit www.c4women.org.

jewish studies lecture: 5:30 p.m. Arnold Hall at College of Charleston, 96 Wentworth St. Free. Professor Nelson Vieira, university professor of Portuguese, Brazilian Literature and Judaic Studies at Brown University, will speak on "Prophets in the Tropics: Jewish Writing and Culture from Brazil," which will examine the Jewish voice in Brazilian literature. Call 953-3918.

leadership charleston alumni reunion: 5:30-7 p.m. Tommy Condon's, 160 Church St., Charleston. $20, $15 Chamber member discount. Celebrate St. Patrick's Day early and reconnect with your Leadership Class. E-mail dowens@charlestonchamber.org to reserve your spot before March 11.

Green party at the museum: 5:30-7:30 p.m. Charleston Museum, 360 Meeting St. $20 member, $25 nonmember. Just in time for St. Patrick's Day and the coming of Spring, enjoy an evening of live Irish tunes, Irish beer tasting, 19th-century fashions and curator- led tours of the Clothes to Dye For exhibit. Don't forget to wear green! Call 722-2996 or visit www.charlestonmuseum.org to register by March 11.

book signing and reading: 6-8 p.m. Barnes & Noble, 1812 Sam Rittenberg Blvd., West Ashley. Free. Nicole Seitz will sign copies of and read selections from her new southern classic, Trouble the Water. Call 556-6561.

The Charlestonian meeting: 6-8 p.m. Pane e Vino, 17 Warren St., Charleston. Visit www.thecharlestonian.com.

"Justice for all" lecture: 6:30 p.m. Physicians Auditorium at College of Charleston, George Street. Free. Morris Dees, civil rights activist and founder of the Southern Poverty Law Center, will present a lecture entitled "Justice for All." Visit www.cofc.edu.

lowcountry young republicans meeting: 6:30-8:30 p.m. Sticky Fingers, 1200 N. Main St., Summerville. Dues are $20 per year, $35 for married couples. Hear a distinguished speaker and advance Lowcountry Republican thought. Contact Chairperson Johanna Owens at johannaowens@hotmail.com.

panel discussion with local design leaders: 7 p.m. The Charleston Museum, 360 Meeting St. Free. Sponsored by the College of Charleston Department of Historic Preservation and Community Planning. Call 953- 3888.

sake tasting and Dinner: 7-9 p.m. Ted's Butcherblock, 334 East Bay St., Charleston. $50 includes all sake tastings and four-course pairings. Featuring artisan Japanese sakes paired with creations from Chef Michael Ruggiero, you'll learn how sake is made, the different levels and types and what foods pair well with the drink. Call 577-0094.

east coast canoe and kayak festival Q&A Session: 7-9 p.m. Charleston County Park and Recreation Commission Headquarters, 861 Riverland Dr., James Island. Free. Ages 16 and up. The festival is one of the largest events of its kind, featuring on-water and classroom presentations for the novice to advanced paddlers. Meet with the staff to learn more about it and which courses may be suitable for you. Call 795-4FUN or visit www.ccprc.com.

an evening of irish music: 7:30 p.m. Sottile Theatre, 44 George St., Charleston. $25. Enjoy the Charleston Men's Chorus, followed by the Na Fidleiri Youth Group Irish fiddlers and the Corless Family Singers. Call 722-6204 for tickets.

"Romance" by charleston music fest: 7:30 p.m. Ashley Hall, 172 Rutledge Ave., Charleston. $25. Enjoy world-class chamber music at this intimate performance featuring works by Franz Schubert, Gabriel Faure, Frederic Chopin and Antonin Dvorak. Call 953-0935 or visit www.etix.com for tickets.

March 14

Halsey Institue Lecture: 4 p.m. Simons Center for the Arts, Room 309, 54 St. Philip St., Charleston. Free. The Halsey Institute of Contemporary Art at College of Charleston presents "You Are Here" by Mark Trujillo. Call 953-5680.

little illustrators program: 4-5:30 p.m. G.M. Darby Building, 302 Pitt St., Mount Pleasant. $20 resident, $27 nonresident. Ages 6-10. Children are invited to come listen to popular children's stories and learn how to create an illustration using a variety of artistic mediums. Register in advance. Call 849-2061 or visit www.townofmountpleasant.com.

sock hop: 5:30-8 p.m. Town Hall Gym, 100 Ann Edwards Lane, Mount Pleasant. $5. Grades 4-5. A DJ will provide music and Mount Pleasant Recreation Department staff will chaperon. Register early. Call 856- 2196 or visit www.townofmountpleasant.com.

poetry reading: 7 p.m. Second Presbyterian Church, 342 Meeting St., Charleston. Free and open to the public. Poetry Society presents a reading by Sebastian Matthews, author of a collection of poems, "We, Generous," and a memoir, "In My Father's Footsteps." Visit www.poetrysocietysc.org.

Star light, star bright: 8-9:30 p.m. Caw Caw Interpretive Center, 5200 Savannah Hwy., Ravenel. $9, $7 CCR discount. Ages 9 and up. Become familiar with the night sky, using telescopes to view galaxies, globular clusters, nebulas and other deep space forms. Call 795-4FUN or visit www.ccprc.com.

March 15

Mount Pleasant Art festival: All day. Mount Pleasant Towne Centre, off S.C. Highway 17 North. Free. From art and music to dancing and children's activities, the goal of the 12th annual festival is to celebrate all areas of the arts. Enjoy live entertainment on two stages, art exhibits and fun, family activities. Call 849-2061 or visit www.townofmountpleasant.com.

flowertown festival run/walk: 8 a.m. Begins at the YMCA Gymnastics Center, 205 W. Richardson Ave., Summerville. Prices vary. Practice for the Cooper River Bridge Run and enjoy one of the prettiest races in the Lowcountry. 5K, 10K and 1-mile fun run. Proceeds benefit the YMCA. Call 871-9662 or visit www.summervilleymca.org to register by March 12.

community clean-up: 8 a.m. Meet at St. John Catholic School, 3921 Saint Johns Ave., North Charleston. Clean-up will take place on O'Hear Avenue, between McMillan and Montague avenues. Hunley Waters teams with St. John Catholic School and City Council member Kurt Taylor to pick up litter as part of SCDOT's Adopt a Highway program. Call 906-1159 to volunteer.

walk for education fundraiser: 9 a.m. St. Paul's Academy, 5139 Gibson Road, Hollywood. $20 adults, $15 ages 6-17, $8 children under 6. The event promotes the importance of children's education and to raise awareness of the benefits of exercise. All proceeds will benefit the St. Paul's Academy's Athletic Program. Call 889-2702 or visit www.stpaulsacademy.org to register.

Hershey district track meet: 9 a.m. Wando High School track, 1000 Warrior Way, Mount Pleasant. Athletes ages 9-14 compete in the local track meet for Hershey's Track and Field Games. For information on how to enter to compete, call 884-2528. Visit www.townofmountpleasant.com.

rummage sale: 9-11:30 a.m. Unitarian Church, 4 Archdale St., Charleston. Free parking and admission. Come rummage through clothes, shoes, books, household items and more. Call 723-4617.

safe kids lowcountry safety fair: 9 a.m.-2 p.m. Walterboro National Guard Armory, 639 Cottageville Hwy. Free and open to the public. Bring your children out to learn about safety with electricity, animals, ATVs and many other current safety issues. Also, bring your child and their current car seat for the Car Seat Safety Check. Call 549-2000.

First Aid/CPR/AED courses: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. R.L. Jones Center, 391 Egypt Road, Mount Pleasant. $60 resident, $74 nonresident. Learn how to prevent, recognize and respond to an emergency appropriately, and how to perform basic first aid procedures and CPR skills. Call 884- 2528 or visit www.townofmountpleasant.com.

garden pests seminar: 9:30-10:30 a.m. Down to Earth, 215 Coleman Blvd., Mount Pleasant. Free. Bill L. Scribner will answer questions and discuss garden pests ranging from insects to deer. Contact 881- 4885 or katie@downtoearthliving.com to register by March 14.

a walk in the woods: 10 a.m. Meet at Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 S.C. Highway 17 North, Awendaw. Free. Discover spring in the Francis Marion National Forest, and learn about flowers, plants, trees and more with a knowledgeable guide. Pre-registration asked by calling 928-3368.cso family concert: 10 a.m. West Ashley High School, 4050 W. Wildcat Blvd. Take a ride with the Charleston Symphony Orchestra as we explore the many ways that music can move us; the audience will play a big role. Visit www.charlestonsymphony.com.

easter adoption celebration: 10 a.m.-noon. "Tot Lot" area of Wannamaker Park, 8888 University Blvd., North Charleston. Free with $1 park admission. A Chosen Child Adoption Services and Through Emma's Eyes invite adopted children and their families, birth parents and adoption professionals, as well as prospective parents interested in adoption and families awaiting placement to enjoy the spring celebration and Easter egg hunt. Call 821-4455 or 851-4004.

poetry seminar: 10 a.m.-noon. Second Presbyterian Church, 342 Meeting St., Charleston. $10 Poetry Society of South Carolina members, $15 nonmembers. The society presents "Space Is the Place: Using Classic Film Techniques to Deepen a Sense of Place in Poetry," a seminar taught by Sebastian Matthews. Call 509-4945 or visit www.poetrysocietysc.org.

easter eggstravaganza: 10 a.m.-noon. The Charleston Museum, 360 Meeting St. Free with paid admission or for museum members. Decorate your own Easter egg bucket, and then journey across the street to the Joseph Manigault House for an Easter egg hunt. Call 722-2996.

corgifest: 10 a.m.-noon. James Island County Park, in the off- leash area, 871 Riverland Dr. Bring your sweet Corgis (and any dog that wants to be herded by Corgis), lawn chairs and cameras. Learn about how to trim nails, clean ears, brush teeth and diet tips. Call 762-2172.

container gardening class: 10 a.m.-noon. Caw Caw Interpretive Center, 5200 Savannah Hwy., Ravenel. $9, $7 CCR discount. Ages 9 and up. Join Tommy Blizard for a course devoted to the gardener with space limitations. Discussion will include container materials, fertilizers and other relevant aspect of cultivation without frustration. Call 795-4FUN or visit www.ccprc.com.

CAMP Carolina Grand opening festival & Scout outdoor skills expo: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Liberty Square and South Carolina Aquarium, 100 Aquarium Wharf, Charleston. Festival is free, regular admission for aquarium. Enjoy a day packed with outdoor activities, fun for the kids and live music on the lawn. Watch as scouts demonstrate their outdoor skills; test your own skills on the climbing wall; listen to camping stories while feasting on s'mores. Plus, go inside the Aquarium to see firsthand Camp Carolina's interactive displays and animals. Call 720-1990 or visit www.scaquarium.org.

healthy lifestyle cooking class: Noon. Total Life Care Charleston, 825 Wappoo Road, West Ashley. $25. Presented by Dr. Stephanie Latter, the class includes cooking instruction, recipes, buying tips and a four-course meal. Reservations required. Call 402- 0310 or visit www.tlccharleston.com.

book signing: Noon-2 p.m. The Preservation Society of Charleston Book and Gift Shop, 147 King St. Authors Ben McC. Moise and H. David Stone Jr. will sign copies of their books. Light refreshments will be served. Call 722-4630 or visit www.preservationsociety.org.

spring eggstravaganza: Noon-3 p.m. Park West Pool, Mount Pleasant. $5 per family. Children are invited to participate in this underwater egg hunt and spring festival. Bring your own bucket to collect eggs. Call 856-2536 or visit www.townofmountpleasant.com.

Opera at the library: 1:30 p.m. Charleston County Public Library, 68 Calhoun St. Free. Enjoy a direct simulcast from the Metropolitan Opera of "Peter Grimes," an opera that subtly explores the nature of judgment as the title character's alleged crime, child abuse, is suspected rather than proven. Call 805-6811.

jane Austen Society meeting: 1:30 p.m. Berkeley Electric, 3351 Maybank Hwy., Johns Island. Joanne Lannie will give a talk on "Beau Brummel." Nonmembers welcome. Call 884-4398.

Gullah heritage program: 2 p.m. Charles Pinckney National Historic Site, 1254 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant. Free. Featuring a documentary and book signing with master ironworker Philip Simmons, quilting with Dorothy Montgomery and sweetgrass basket demonstration with Elijah Ford. Call 881-5516 or visit www.nps.gov/ chpi.

horticulture lecture: 2 p.m. Free. Sewee Visitor Center, 5821 S.C. Highway 17 North, Awendaw. Father Guerric, native plant restoration manager at Mepkin Abbey, will speak on "The History, Mission and Future Development of the Mepkin Abbey Gardens." Call 928-3368.

palmetto fiber arts guild meeting: 2-4 p.m. The Meeting Place, 1077 E. Montague Ave., North Charleston. $15. Local fiber artist Dorinda Harmon will teach a class on weaving a natural fiber wall pocket. Call 327-3540 to register or visit www.palmettofiberarts.org for more information.

The Gullah Connection: 2-4 p.m. International Longshoremen's Hall, 1142 Morrison Dr., Charleston. $10. In recognition of National Women's History Month, the Women's Resource Project Inc. invites the public to enjoy Sister to Sista Poetry, De Gullah Singers, a silent auction and a reception.

St. Labby Day: 3-7 p.m. The Square Onion at I'On Square, 18B Resolute Lane, Mount Pleasant. Bring your furry friends to an Irish "ceLABration" to benefit the Wild Heir Labrador Rescue. There will be snacks, dog treats, beer, wine, live music, a raffle and more. Call 856-4246.

March 16

re-opening of folly beach pier: 7 a.m.-7 p.m. Edwin S. Taylor Folly Beach Fishing Pier. After almost six months of extensive renovations, the fishing pier opens with a day-long celebration, including free fishing and parking, children's activities, music and giveaways. Call 795-4FUN or visit www.ccprc.com.

Introduction to climbing: 9 a.m.-noon. James Island County Park, 871 Riverland Dr. $54, $45 CCR discount. Ages 11 and up. Climb smarter not harder, as we cover the basics of climbing technique, including footwork, balance and body positioning. Call 795-4FUN or visit www.ccprc.com.

spring benefit concert: 3 p.m. Sottile Theatre, 44 George St., Charleston. $15, $10 seniors/students, free for children under 7. Featuring and benefiting the Charleston Men's Chorus Music Scholarship recipients from the College of Charleston, Charleston Southern University and the Charleston County School of the Arts. Call 720-8505 or visit www.cmchorus.com.

charleston house concert series: 3 p.m. The Kuhn Home, 42 Church St., Charleston. $25. Chamber Music Charleston presents program IV of the series, providing intimate chamber music performances in a downtown home with a light reception following the concert. Call 763- 4941.

CSO Gospel choir: 5 p.m. Citadel Square Baptist Church, 328 Meeting St., Charleston. $10. Enjoy the seventh annual Spring presentation entitled "Homecoming: Rediscovering Roots Palm Sunday," which will embody the meaning of the African-American culture in its bond to the motherland (Africa). Visit www.csogospel.com.

Theater/dance

"Are you the king of the jews?" dinner theatre: 7 p.m. March 14- 15. Bethany United Methodist Church, 1853 Maybank Hwy., James Island. $5 adults, $3 children 4-10, free for children under 4. Menu includes spaghetti, salad, bread, iced tea, coffee and dessert. Tickets must be purchases in advance by calling 795-3527.

"Cinderella; Or How Pipsqueak the Mouse became a stallion": 9:15 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 12:15 p.m. March 10-14, 7 p.m. March 14, 3 p.m. March 15. Flowertown Players, 133 S. Main St., Summerville. $5. Presented by the Flowertown Players and the Lee A. Bartlett Children's Theatre. Call 875-9251 or visit www.flowertownplayers.org.

"defiance": 8 p.m. through March 8, 5 p.m. March 9. The Village Playhouse, 730 Coleman Blvd., Mount Pleasant. $24 adults, $22 seniors and military, $20 students. Patrick Shanley's play, set in 1971 at Camp Lejune, is about power, love and responsibility. To purchase tickets, call 856-1579 or visit www.villageplayhouse.com.

"Fiddler on the roof": Through March 9. Times vary. Sottile Theatre, 44 George St., Charleston. $36.50, $34.50 seniors, $25.50 students. One of the most beloved Broadway musicals of all time, this performance is directed by Marybeth Clark and tells the story of a Jewish milkman and his daughters in turbulent turn-of-the- century Russia. Call 577-7183 or visit www.charlestonstage.com.

Ghosts of Charleston Emerge: 10 a.m.-10 p.m. Monday-Saturday and noon-8 p.m. Sunday. Charleston Legends and Lore Ghosts Theater, 161 Church St., Charleston. $9 adults, $6 children 5-12, free children under 5. Go back in time to hear haunting stories from the ghosts who lived centuries ago. Call 937-0916.

"THe Passion Play": 7 p.m. March 14, 16, 21, 23 and 3 p.m. March 15, 22. Old Fort Baptist Church, 10505 Dorchester Road, Summerville. Free. Experience the wonder and glory of the Greatest Story Ever Told. Call 873-2283.

"The Tragedian": 7:30 p.m. today, March 13, 20, 27; April 3, 10, 17. Circular Congregational Church, 150 Meeting St., Charleston. This one-man tour de force is an explosive portrait of Edwin Booth, one of the most brilliant theatrical artists in history and the older brother of Lincoln assassin John Wilkes Booth. For tickets, visit www.brownpapertickets.com or www.puretheatre.org.

"The violet hour": 8 p.m. March 7-8, 13-15, 20-22; 3 p.m. March 9, 16. The Footlight Players, 20 Queen St., Charleston. $25 adults, $22 seniors, $15 students. The Footlight Players present this complicated drama about a young book publisher in New York City. For tickets, call 722-4487 or visit www.footlightplayers.net.

"Laugh for a Lincoln": 8 p.m. Wednesdays. Theatre 99, 280 Meeting St., Charleston. Get a weekly dose of improv for $5. Call 853-6687 or visit www.thehavenots.com.

The Have Nots! Comedy Improv Jam: 8 p.m. Fridays. Theatre 99, 280 Meeting St., Charleston. $10. Call 853-6687 or visit www.thehavenots.com.

The Have Nots! Comedy Improv Company: 8 p.m. Saturdays. Theatre 99, 280 Meeting St., Charleston. $12.50. Call 853-6687 or visit www.thehavenots.com.

"You're a good man, charlie brown": 7 p.m. March 15 and 3 p.m. March 16. South of Broadway Theatre Company Studios, 1080 E. Montague Ave., North Charleston. $12 adults, $5 students. South of Broadway's ShowBiz School presents this musical comedy based on the characters created by cartoonist Charles M. Schulz in his comic strip, "Peanuts." Call 745-0317.

Call for entries

arts and crafts vendors wanted: The Sons of Italy Lodge 2662 is seeking arts and crafts vendors to participate in its 14th annual Italian Festival, scheduled for Sept. 6-7 at Broadway Commons on Broadway at the Beach, Myrtle Beach. Call A. Kollet at 237-3523.

battle of the bands: March Madness Battle of the Bands is looking for original artists to compete. $500 prize. Battle dates are March 14-15, 21-22, 28-29 at the Village Tavern in Mount Pleasant. Contact Stu Johnson at 259-4507 or sjohnson@allnightkungfu.com.

Charleston Barbershop Chorus: Looking for men to sing four-part harmony a cappella style. Rehearsals Tuesdays, 7-9:30 p.m., Church of the Holy Communion, 218 Ashley Ave. Call 557-0500.

Charleston men's chorus: Meets 5:30-7:30 p.m. Mondays at St. Philip's Episcopal Church, 142 Church St. Informal audition required for new members. Call 768-4571.

CHARLESTON RENAISSANCE ENSEMBLE: A group of 10-12 singers specializing in a cappella music of the Renaissance and medieval periods is auditioning altos, tenors and baritones. Good sight- reading skills and the ability to blend required. 559-3166.

CHARLESTON COMMUNITY BAND: Adult musicians welcome. Meets 7:30- 9:30 Tuesday evenings in the band room at The Citadel. E-mail rhondaflong@hotmail.com.

Folly Felder Film Festival: Original film submissions of 15 minutes or less accepted for Palmetto Awards. Call 588-9636.

footlight's youtube auditions: Submit your auditions for the Footlight Players' summer Young Actors Performance Ensemble via YouTube. Students ages 14-18 can go to www.watermarkensemble.org and click on "Audition Info." Learn the sides, make your own video, upload it to YouTube and send the link to staff@watermarkensemble.org by March 15. For more information on the Young Actors Performance Ensemble, visit www.watermark

ensemble.com.

national outdoor sculpture competition: Sculpture artists from across the nation are invited to participate in the third annual competition and exhibition. Compete for $11,000 in exhibition honorarium and awards. Deadline is March 7. Call 745-1087 or e-mail culturalarts@northcharleston.org. Download application at www.northcharleston.org.

North Charleston Arts Festival: Accepting applications from performers of dance, music and theater for the North Charleston Arts Festival. Also accepting applications for artists in multimedia, visual arts and fine crafts. North Charleston Cultural and Civic Center, Avenue B South on the former Charleston Naval Base. Call 745- 1087 or visit www.northcharleston.org.

North Charleston "beautiful Places" photograph Contest: The city of North Charleston and Keep North Charleston Beautiful invite photographers from all levels of experience to submit their entries, which should reflect the locations throughout North Charleston that capture the charm and beauty of the area. Deadline is Aug. 31. Call 745-1073 or e-mail chanlon@northcharleston.org.

religious poetry contest: A $1,000 grand prize is being offered in a religious poetry contest sponsored by the Sacramento Rainbow Poets, free to everyone. There are 50 prizes in all. To enter, send one poem of 21 lines or less to: Free Poetry Contest, 2935 Clay St., Sacramento, CA 95815, or enter online at www.rainbow

poets.com. Deadline is March 10.

s.c. palmetto hands find craft exhibition: South Carolina fine craft artists are invited to participate in the 2008 exhibition. Compete for cash prizes totaling $4,000. Deadline is March 21. Call 745-1087 or e-mail culturalarts@northcharleston.org. Download application at www.northcharleston.org.

SOUTHERN HARMONY CHORUS: Southeastern Region top 10 women's chorus is looking for women to sing four-part harmony a cappella style. Rehearsals 7-9:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Call 817-0598.

Summerville Community Orchestra: The Summerville Community Orchestra is looking for musicians. Ongoing. Visit www.orchestra.summerville.com.

Women's Caucus for Art, Charleston Chapter: A national nonprofit organization dedicated to increasing opportunities for women in the visual arts. Meets to discuss exhibit opportunities, critique art and build a network of women in the local art community. Meetings are informal and held at a variety of sites throughout the Charleston area, often at openings and art events. E-mail WCAcharleston@yahoo.com or visit www.WCAcharleston.blogspot.com.

Volunteers

American College of the Building Arts: Volunteer opportunities exist at the school, which provides a forum for education and training in the building arts, including masonry, ironwork, stone carving and timber framing. Aims to restore pride in quality craftsmanship. 577-5245.

AMERICAN RED CROSS: Respond to disasters, become involved in the retired and senior volunteer program or teach lifesaving courses in Berkeley, Charleston and Dorchester counties with the Carolina Lowcountry Chapter. No experience is necessary; training is provided. 764-2323, ext. 364, Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. to learn more.

BE A MENTOR INITIATIVE: Connect with children in need of friendship, guidance and support. Responsible, caring adults needed to volunteer as a lunch/reading buddy, tutor/mentor and one-on-one mentor. Be a Mentor is a division of the Charleston Leadership Foundation. For more information and to register, visit www.bam.sc or call the Mayor's Office for Children, Youth, and Families at 965- 4190.

berkeley county guardian ad litem: According to the Department of Social Services, 220 Berkeley County children were living in foster care on June 30, 2007. The Berkeley County Volunteer Guardian ad Litem program can train you to become a volunteer advocate for these children. The free training will teach you to become a positive, effective advocate for children. We seek volunteers, male or female, who are over 21, of any education, background, ethnicity or race. All that you need is the desire to work with children and the ability to donate four to six hours per month to the program. Call Donna Carter at 719-4953 or 723-3800, ext. 4953. Visit www.berkeley.scgal.org for more information or an application.

CAROLINA HOSPICE CARE: Caring and compassionate individuals needed to help with terminally ill patients and their families. No experience needed; training provided. 849-5910.

CAROLINA YOUTH DEVELOPMENT CENTER: Volunteers needed as mentors for children from single-parent families or as tutors or special- event participants for children who have been abused or neglected or who have emotional/behavioral problems. 266-5218.

charles towne landing: Assist with visitor services, interpretation, maintenance and more. Discover how you can support the beauty and history of South Carolina's birthplace. 1500 Old Towne Road. 852-4200.

Charleston Area Faith in Action Coalition: Volunteers needed to help seniors live more independently in their own homes. Contact Peggy Pye at 722-2351.

Charleston Area Senior Citizens: Volunteers needed to package and/ or deliver the midday meal to homebound senior citizens in the downtown Charleston area Monday-Friday. Contact Ellen Kent at 722- 4127 or ellenk@charlestonareaseniors.com.

Charleston County Park and Recreation: Volunteers needed for special events, as well as for the climbing wall, kayaking programs, environmental education and more. Contact Karen Nugent at 762-8062. www.ccprc.com.

CHARLESTON LACROSSE CLUB: Looking for men and women to play adult lacrosse, as well as volunteer coach at the high school level. To play, men call Clarke at 345-2966; women call Moira at 200-5680.

Charleston Museum: Seeking enthusiastic individuals to serve as historic house interpreters at two of the city's premier historic houses, the Heyward-Washington House and the Joseph Manigault House. 722-2996, ext. 223, or e-mail info@charlestonmuseum.org.

COMMUNITIES IN SCHOOLS: Help needed for mentoring, tutoring, special events, speakers, career shadowing and administrative support. 720-2346.

DISABLED AMERICAN VETERANS TRANSPORTATION OFFICE: Volunteer van drivers needed for the Summerville and Moncks Corner areas. Contact Karen Carnes at 789-7230.

EAST COOPER COMMUNITY OUTREACH: Needing volunteers for interviews, food pantry, donated clothing, housewares distribution and fundraiser assistance. 1145 Six Mile Road, Mount Pleasant. 849- 9220 or e-mail info@eccocharleston.org.

EAST COOPER REGIONAL MEDICAL CENTER: Gift shop workers, escorts, hostesses and patient assistants needed for morning and afternoon shifts. 1200 Johnnie Dodds Blvd., Mount Pleasant. Contact Mary at 886-5434.

Edmondston-Alston House: Seeking volunteers interested in decorative arts, architecture and American and Charleston history. 21 East Battery. Contact M. Getz at 722-7171 or visit www.middletonplace.org.

FIELDS TO FAMILIES: A nonprofit agency dedicated to providing fresh fruits and vegetables to the hungry of the Lowcountry. Volunteers needed for donating produce from home gardens, soliciting donations from growers, harvesting crops from various farms and delivering produce in the tri-county area. Call 881-6798 or visit fieldstofamilies@bellsouth.net.

FRANCES R. WILLIS SPCA: Volunteers older than 16 needed to walk and socialize dogs, play with kittens and cats, assist with animal care, catalog media coverage and help with other projects. Training provided. Visit 136 Four Paws Lane in Summerville or call 871-3820.

Friends of the Lowcountry Senior Center: Cell phone recycling is a fundraiser for the senior center, and recycling keeps the harmful materials that are released as phones break down in landfills from leaching into our soil and drinking water. Bring cell phones 8 a.m.- 8 p.m. Monday-Thursday and 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Friday. 865 Riverland Drive, James Island.

GBSI ANIMAL REFUGE: Help feed, clean and bathe the dogs at the GBSI Animal Refuge in Cottageville. Contact J.C. or Faye Commeville at 835-4274.

GOODWILL INDUSTRIES: Volunteers needed for special events, thrift and vintage retail, fundraisers, retail and administrative support. 566-0072.

Grateful Goldens Rescue: Volunteers needed to help rescue and foster golden retrievers. All types of opportunities available. 1406 Waterlily Drive, Mount Pleasant. 810-0146 or info@ggrlc.org.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY: Volunteers needed during the week, 9 a.m.- 3 p.m. Call 722-7145 (Charleston); 881-2600 (East Cooper); 851-1414 (Dorchester); 761-8989 (Berkeley); 768-0998 (Sea Island).

Heartland Hospice: Individuals needed to provide support, companionship and practical help to enhance patients' quality of life. Free training provided. 766-7646.

HELP: Telephone coordinators needed to assist with donation calls to HELP, a telephone ministry to assist the needy. 577-6457.

HOPE LODGE: The American Cancer Society's home away from home for out-of-town cancer patients receiving outpatient treatment is seeking administrative and program volunteers. 269 Calhoun St. Contact Sundi at 958-0930.

HOTLINE AND TEEN LINE: The 24-hour telephone counseling and crisis-intervention service offers training for new volunteers. 747- 3007.

International Center for Birds of Prey: Seeking volunteers interested in all levels of medical care and captive management for birds of prey. Training provided. Shifts available seven days a week. 928-3494.

Independent Transportation Network Charleston Trident: Love driving? Here's an opportunity to help seniors (ages 65 and older) and individuals with visual impairments in the tri-county area. Volunteers needed for driving, special events and office support. 225-2715 or www.itncharlestontrident.org.

KEEPER OF THE WILD: Volunteers needed to help with wildlife rehabilitation, particularly cleaning, feeding, maintenance and transportation. All skills welcome. Must be 18 or older. 636-1659.

LOWCOUNTRY AIDS SERVICES: Be trained to transport clients to medical appointments, assist with the agency's nutrition center and provide companionship and support to hospitalized clients. No experience necessary. People with flexible schedules, especially daytime availability, are in demand. Contact Mark Gray at 747-2273, ext. 213.

Lowcountry Food Bank: A local nonprofit agency fighting hunger in coastal South Carolina. Volunteer opportunities available in the warehouse and administrative office in Charleston for 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Monday-Friday and first Saturday or 3-5:30 p.m. Monday-Friday Kids Cafe program. Contact Erin Fisher at 747-8146, ext. 102, or visit www.lowcountryfoodbank.org.

LOWCOUNTRY GOLDEN RETRIEVER RESCUE: Volunteers needed who are passionate about helping abandoned and abused golden retrievers. Any donation of time and expertise is appreciated. 571-7177 or www.lcgrr.org.

LOWCOUNTRY LAB RESCUE: Love Labs? Here is your opportunity to help those big, lovable Labs. Volunteers needed to help Labrador retrievers in a number of capacities. www.lowcountrylabrescue.org.

Lowcountry Orphan Relief: Provides services and aid to abandoned, abused and neglected children in the Charleston area. Need volunteers to help take in clothes and package up orders for children in need. 747-4099.

LOWCOUNTRY SENIOR CENTER: Friendly volunteers needed for front desk, special events, mailings and instructors for a wide range of interests and activities. 762-9555.

MIDDLETON PLACE: Interested in American and black history, agriculture, horticulture, landscape architecture and plantation life at America's oldest landscaped gardens? Contact Jeanie Redding at 556-6020, ext. 125.

National Multiple sclerosis Society: Seeks walkers and volunteers for Charleston MS Walk. The Mid-Atlantic Chapter will host MS walks in 18 cities across North and South Carolina this spring. The chapter serves the entire state, as well as 33 counties of North Carolina by providing programs for people living with MS and their families, and by raising money for national MS research. Volunteers are needed to help with festivities, food, route marking and medic stations. There is no cost to walk, but participants are encouraged to raise money before the walk. All money raised will go to support programs for local clients living with MS, and MS research. Contact Matt Honeycutt at matt.honeycutt@ncp.nmss.org or 800-477-2955.

NATIONAL PARK SERVICE: Volunteers needed to work four-hour shifts at Fort Moultrie, Charles Pinckney and the Fort Sumter Visitor Education Center in Charleston. Contact Melissa Tynes at 577-0242.

NEWBORNS IN NEED: Volunteers who sew, knit or crochet are needed for a nonprofit charity that makes and donates baby clothes and blankets to hospitals and shelters. 971-6979.

ODYSSEY HEALTH CARE: Hospice volunteers needed to assist in providing compassionate end-of-life care to

patients and families. Training, ongoing support and education provided. 554-4048.

OUR LADY OF MERCY COMMUNITY OUTREACH: Volunteers needed to staff clothing and food pantry and

serve as after-school reading buddies (3:30-4:30 p.m. Monday- Thursday). Our Lady of Mercy Outreach, 1684 Brownswood Rd., Johns Island. Contact Claire at 559-4109.

Palmetto Health hospice: Volunteer training will be offered 10 a.m.-3 p.m. March 5-7 at Palmetto Health Hospice, 1815 Old Trolley Road, Suite 109, Summerville. Men and women with a wide range of interests and skill are needed to provide companionship to terminally ill patients and their caregivers in Berkeley, Charleston, Colleton, Dorchester and Orangeburg counties. Call Vanessa Griffin at 821-4011 or 775-1392.

Parents Anonymous: Volunteers facilitators are needed for support groups with parents who are experiencing stress and in need of support and resources. Must be capable of working with parents in the Parents Anonymous model of shared leadership. Volunteer child care coordinators are needed to create a safe, structured weekly children's program for children to attend while their parents are meeting in their support group. The focus of this volunteer position is to help children develop healthy social skills, increase their competencies and to build self-esteem and self-confidence. Contact Donna Xenakis at 747-0480, ext. 26, or donnaxenakis@bellsouth.net.

PATRIOTS POINT NAVAL AND MARITIME MUSEUM: One of the world's largest naval museums needs motivated, energetic volunteers who enjoy working with others to assist more than 300,000 yearly visitors. Contact Ned Forney at 881-5935 or nforney@infoave.net.

PET HELPERS RESCUE AND ADOPTION SHELTER: Volunteers older than 16 needed to assist with dog walking and grooming, socializing cats and dogs, special events, fostering animals, and other projects throughout the year. Volunteers younger than 16 welcome, but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times. Volunteer orientations held once a month. To sign up, register at www.pethelpers.org or call 795-1110.

PRESERVATION SOCIETY OF CHARLESTON: Seeking individuals interested in historic houses and gardens to help with the Fall Candlelight Tours of Homes and Gardens. Volunteer positions include house guides, garden guides, street marshals, and ticket office and reservations assistants. Free tour tickets for volunteers. 722- 4630, www.preservationsociety.org or e-mail gscully@preservationsociety.org.

rise up and read: Volunteers needed for one-on-one after-school tutoring program for students grades 1-6. Program meets Tues. and Thurs. 3-5:30 p.m. at 43 Wentworth St. Volunteers may commit to one or both days but must be consistent. 224-2213.

RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES: Groups are needed to join the Prepare-A-Meal program, and individual volunteers are also needed in Charleston's home away from home for families of seriously ill children and at upcoming events. Visit www.rmhcharleston.org to apply or call Sarah at 723-7957, ext. 304.

ROPER HOSPITAL: Roper Hospital welcomes volunteers interested in learning to staff the information desk for 3-4 hours a week, weekdays after 4 p.m. or on weekends. Good customer service skills, a pleasant telephone voice and basic computer skills are needed. Orientation required and provided. Contact Mitzi Neely at 724-2080.

SAFE MOVES FAMILY VIOLENCE RESOURCE CENTER: Volunteers who can give at least four hours a month are needed to work with children and adults, as well as perform clerical duties and other tasks. 746- 9717.

sculpture in the south: The annual outdoor exhibit and sale, held May 17-18, has openings for 50-60 volunteers. The position puts you up-close-and-personal with renowned sculptors from across the country. Training provided. Call 851-7800 or e-mail askus@sculptureinthesouth.com.

ST. MATTHEW'S COMMUNITY CENTER: Tutor/mentors needed for after- school program for students in grades 2-8. Training provided. Program runs Mon.-Thurs., 3-6 p.m. Minimum once-a-week commitment. 579-0420.

Sewee Visitor Center: Looking for volunteer greeters for weekly four-hour shifts between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays. Field trips to the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge and the Francis Marion National Forest will be conducted to orient volunteer workers. Training also will include the use of basic audio-visual equipment, a photocopier, the telephone system, a credit-card machine and cash register. U.S. Highway 17 (12 miles north of the Isle of Palms connector) in Awendaw. Contact Carol Riggs or Ray Paterra at 928-3368.

Sewee Visitor and Environmental Education Center: A federal facility jointly operated by the Cape Romain National Wildlife Refuge and Francis Marion National Forest. Volunteer opportunities available in visitor services, administrative support, education, resource enhancement, trails maintenance, and grounds and facility maintenance. Located in Awendaw. Contact Tricia Lynch at 928-3368 for additional volunteer information. Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Sun.

S.C. AQUARIUM: Including costume characters, exhibit guides, divers and community outreach assistance, volunteers are involved in almost every aspect of the aquarium. There are also opportunities for volunteers to work as aquarist assistants and in horticulture. 579-8553 or e-mail srahn@scaquarium.org.

S.C. center for BIRDS OF PREY: Be trained to assist in raptor medical care. 928-3494.

S.C. MARITIME FOUNDATION: Volunteers needed to staff special maritime events, provide tours of shipyard and more. Office help also welcome. Contact office at 722-1030 or visit www.scmaritime.org.

SCIENCE RESOURCE CENTER: Volunteers needed Mon.-Fri., 8:30-11:30 a.m. or 12:30-3:30 p.m. to put together sets of materials to refurbish science kits. Located behind West Ashley Middle School. Contact Carol Tempel at 937-6449.

Southeast Bloodhound Rescue Inc: A nonprofit affiliated with and the regional rescue for the American Bloodhound Club Inc. needs foster homes and volunteers to transport bloodhounds to their foster or forever homes. Bloodhounds are used by police departments, the Department of Homeland Security, the FBI and various search-and- rescue agencies and are loving and kind family pets. For more information, call 768-8913, 367-8202 or visit www.southeastbloodhoundrescue.net.

TRI-COUNTY FAMILY MINISTRIES: Help fix hot lunches Monday, Wednesday and Friday or deliver meals to homebound people. Office/ clerical assistance and volunteer nurses, students and other medical personnel needed to assess clients' medical and prescription needs. A Trident United Way agency. Contact Sue Hanshaw at 747-1788 or tricountyfamilyministries@comcast.net.

TRIDENT LITERACY ASSOCIATION: Help teach adults who want to improve their literacy skills. Volunteers needed two hours/week for beginner reader pairs, basic reading and math classes, general equivalency degree classes and classes in English as a second language. 747-2223.

UNITED WAY: Volunteers needed one shift per week to assist with United Way's 24-hour telephone crisis-counseling hotline. Training provided. 747-3007.

Water Missions International: Volunteers needed to assemble water purification systems for developing countries. Electrical, plumbing, handyman skills desired, or willingness to learn. Weekly or monthly commitment preferred. 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays; 9 a.m.-3 p.m. second and fourth Saturdays of month. 2049 Savannah Highway, West Ashley. Contact Georgia Thompson at 769-7395, ext. 207.

winyaH community hospice: Provide companionship, work on a special patient recognition craft project, make a shawl or lap robe or provide office support. 554-7161 or 803-446-7903 to speak with Sue Vowles.

Museums

THE AMERICAN MILITARY MUSEUM: Aquarium Wharf, 360 Concord St. Displays more than 350 uniforms, 400 pieces of military headgear and numerous artifacts, weapons and personal equipment. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat., 1-5 p.m. Sun. 577-7000.

BOONE HALL PLANTATION: U.S. Highway 17 North, Mount Pleasant. Offers guided tours of mansion, slave cabins and gardens. $17.50 adults, $15 seniors, $7.50 ages 6-12. Call for hours. 884-4371.

CHARLESTON MUSEUM: 360 Meeting St. America's first museum, showcasing various cultural and natural history artifacts that tell the story of the Lowcountry, including ancient fossils, a whale skeleton, elegant costumes and Charleston silver. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.- Sat., 1-5 p.m. Sun. $10 adults, $5 children. 722-2996.

COMMUNICATIONS MUSEUM: 58 George St. Collection of antique phonographs, radios, televisions, telephones, magic lanterns and motion-picture projectors. Noon-4 p.m. Mon.-Fri. except school holidays. Free. 953-5810.

CONFEDERATE MUSEUM: Located at Market Hall, built 1841. Corner of Meeting and Market streets, upstairs. Opened by Confederate veterans. More than 2,000 civilian and military relics, including flags, uniforms, weapons, rifled cannon, clothing, and Robert E. Lee's hair. Excellent Confederate research library. Tues.-Sat. 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m. $5 adults, $3 ages 6-12, free for ages younger than 6. 723-1541.

DRAYTON HALL: 3380 Ashley River Road. Drayton Hall (c. 1738), an example of Georgian-Palladian architecture. After seven generations, the Revolutionary and Civil wars, numerous hurricanes and an earthquake, the main house remains in nearly original condition. $14 adults; $8 youths (12-18); $6 for children (6-11); children (5 and under) free. Discounts for AAA members and military. Open daily through August 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; September-May 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m. 769- 2600.

EDMONDSTON-ALSTON HOUSE: 21 East Battery. One of the first dwellings built on Charleston's High Battery in 1825; an example of early 19th-century style. Guided tours Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m.; Sun. & Mon. 1:30-4:30 p.m. $10. 722-7171.

Gibbes Museum of Art: 135 Meeting St. Ongoing exhibition of 'The Charleston Story,' chronicling the history of Charleston through the visual arts from the Colonial period to today. Tours Tues. and Sat. at 2:30 p.m. Open Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sun. 1-5 p.m. $9 adults, $7 seniors, students and military, $5 ages 6-12, free for ages younger than 6. 722-2706. Original Charleston Walks and the Gibbes have teamed to present the Gibbes' Discovery Tour, a 90- minute tour that brings the creative characters of Charleston to life. Professional guides provided by The Original Charleston Walks make the tour a lively blend of art, storytelling and history. Saturdays 10:30 a.m.-noon. $20 fee, includes all-day access to the museum. 800-729-3420 or 577-3800 for reservations.

H.L. HUNLEY: Warren Lasch Conservation Center, North Charleston. Weekend tours available of submarine H.L. Hunley. Sat. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sun. Noon-5 p.m. Walk-up tickets are available. Tickets can be purchased at www.etix.com or 877-448-6539. 722-2333.

KARPELES MANUSCRIPT MUSEUM: 68 Spring St. at Coming St. Running through March 31, the exhibit "Abolition of the International Slave Trade," displays two dozen manuscripts depicting many aspects of the institution of slavery with a particular focus on the agreements at the beginning of the 19th century to bring an end to the transatlantic buying and selling of African slaves. This is the 200th anniversary of the ending of this nefarious business and the College of Charleston's Carolina Lowcountry in the Atlantic World Program is sponsoring an international symposium on the subject. Our exhibit is being done in coordination with this conference. Free parking and admission. Hours: 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday (closed Mondays). Located in historic St. James Methodist Church building, built in 1857 in Roman Classical Revival temple form. 853- 4651.

MIDDLETON PLACE: 4300 Ashley River Road. Explore 65 acres of a preserved 18th-century plantation with landscaped gardens, plantation stable yards and animals, demonstrations by craftsmen, a house museum full of family portraits and furniture. Restaurant, kayaking and nature walks available. 556-6020.

NORTH CHARLESTON AND AMERICAN LAFRANCE FIRE MUSEUM AND EDUCATIONAL CENTER: 4975 Centre Pointe Dr., N. Charleston. See how firefighting and its vital importance to our lives has progressed over the years. Fire safety education exhibits teach about the history of fire fighting while kids and adults can enjoy seeing the priceless collection of American LaFrance antique vehicles. 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. Mon.-Sat., closed Sun. $6. Free for children under 13 with adult. 740-5550.

old slave mart: 6 Chalmers St., downtown Charleston. Recounts the story of Charleston's role as an urban slave-trading center during the domestic slave trade and tells the stories of the African- Americans who passed through its gates and their contributions to American society and culture. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday-Saturday. 958- 6467.

PATRIOTS POINT NAVAL AND MARITIME MUSEUM: 40 Patriots Point Road, Mount Pleasant. One of the largest naval museums in the world. Daily 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m. 884-2727.

Recreation

aboard island hopper boat charters: Offering private charters including shelling/lighthouse tour to Morris Island, inshore fishing, dolphin watches and sunset cruises. www.islandhoppercharters.com. 906-4656.

ACE BASIN: Tour ACE Basin aboard

Dixie Lady. Departs Coosaw Island dock at Sam's Point Road on Lady's Island in Beaufort at 10 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays. $30 adults, $15 ages 12 and younger. 521-3099, 888-814-3129 or www.acebasintours.com.

ADVENTURE OUTDOORS FISHING CHARTERS: Half- and full-day fishing trips for redfish, trout, sheepshead, sharks, tarpon and more. 345- 9969 or www.advoutdoors.com.

ASHLEY RIVER KAYAKING: Take a guided kayak trip on the Ashley River through tidal creeks, hike or ride horseback through woodlands, or rent a bike or kayak for a personal tour. Middleton Place, 4300 Ashley River Road. Call for prices. 556-0500.

AUDUBON CENTER: Self-guided boardwalk tours through virgin swamp sanctuary. 1,000-year-old bald cypress trees and native wildlife abound. Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Tues.-Sun. $7 adult, $3.50 ages 6-18. Audubon naturalist-guided canoe/kayak tours available in the spring and other seasons as water level allows. All equipment provided. Fri.-Sun. at 1 p.m. for four-hour trip ($25/adult, $15/child), Sat. 9 a.m. for two-hour trip ($15/adult, $10/child). Canoe/kayak tours require reservations. Call 462-2150 or www.beidlerforest.com.

BARRIER ISLAND EXPLORATIONS: Explorer Cruises offers daily, year- round barrier island and dolphin tours for groups of 4 to 72 on fleet of vessels operating from Charleston Maritime Center. 723- 5656.

BIRD WALKS: Perry Nugent leads bird walks at Magnolia Plantation, S.C. Highway 61. Sundays 8:30 a.m., refreshments follow. $6 members, $17 nonmembers. 571-1266.

BLACKWATER ADVENTURES AND KAYAK TOURS: 1944 Pinopolis Rd., Pinopolis. Experience scenic guided kayak tours. Also, tour the world's second-tallest hydraulic lock. 800-761-1850 or www.blackwateradventure.com.

boaters class: The Charleston Power Squadron will offer evening BoatSmart Classes. The course runs every Tuesday for four weeks, with a review and exam on the fifth evening. Those who pass the exam, and most do, will receive a certificate, which is recognized by S.C. Department of Natural Resources and the U.S. Coast Guard. The Power Squadron's BoatSmart Course covers boat handling, seamanship, knots, charts and aids to navigation. 6:30-8:30 p.m. every Tuesday at the Charleston Power Squadron Headquarters Building 1376 Orange Grove Road, Charleston. Registration begins at 6:30 p.m. 514-9638 or skromer@telecomdb.com.

BOHICKET MARINA: Offering hourly, half- and whole-day boat rentals, parasailing, sunset and eco cruises and fishing charters. Marina is on Johns Island. 8 a.m.-7 p.m. 768-1280.

BROOKGREEN GARDENS: U.S. Highway 17 between Murrells Inlet and Pawleys Island. Guided tours through gardens featuring some 550 sculptures. Daily boat and back-road excursions of wildlife park. $12 adults, $10 ages 65 and over and 13-18, free for children 12 and younger. Tues.-Sun. 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 800-849-1931.

CAP'N RICHARD'S ACE BASIN ESCAPES: Visit historic Bonnie Doone Plantation and picnic on its grounds, view wildlife and enjoy boating on the Ashepoo River. 766-9664.

CAPTAIN RICK HIOTT'S INSHORE FISHING CHARTERS: Giant red drum and other inshore species. 4-, 6- and 8-hour trips for up to 4 people. www.reelfishhead.com. 800-437-0433, 412-6776 or e-mail rlhiott@att.net.

CAW CAW INTERPRETIVE CENTER: U.S. Highway 17, Ravenel. Eight miles of trail wind through nine different habitats including hundreds of acres of intact historical rice fields. Walk a 1,300- foot boardwalk through the swamp. $1 general admission. 889-8898 for info or 795-4786 for programs.

CHARLES PINCKNEY NATIONAL HISTORIC SITE: 1254 Long Point Road, Mount Pleasant. An 1828 Lowcountry cottage serves as a visitor center on 28-acre remnant of a Founding Father's farm. Enjoy 20- minute film, exhibits and walking trail. Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, except Christmas and New Year's. Free. 881-5516 or www.nps.gov/ chpi.

Charleston Audubon Society: Join Audubon members for a reception and lecture and bimonthly field trips September thru May. Free and open to the public. Go to www.charlestonaudubon.org for information.

CHARLESTON HARBOR TOURS: "Harbor of History" tour covering 75 points of interest is offered daily at 11:30 a.m., 1:30 and 3:30 p.m. Departs from the Charleston Maritime Center. Private charters available. 722-1112.

COASTAL CYCLISTS: Cycle the Lowcountry. Rides for all abilities. Contact Charles Fox at 296-4277 or visit www.coastalcyclists.org.

COASTAL EXPEDITIONS: Offering half-, full- and multiday kayaking tours, rentals, sales and instruction. 884-7684 or www.coastalexpeditions.com.

Cypress GARDENS: 3030 Cypress Gardens Road, Moncks Corner. More than 170 acres of swamp and gardens rich in history and nature. Enjoy a boat ride, aquarium, reptiles, butterfly house and more. Daily. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $10 adults, $9 seniors, $5 ages 6-12. 553- 0515.

DOLPHIN AND MORRIS ISLAND SHELLING TOURS: Outdoor Discovery Tours offers dolphin, nature boat excursions and charters of Charleston Harbor. 744-1224 or www.dolphin-tours.com.

EDISTO WATERSPORTS & TACKLE: Fishing charters, ACE Basin river cruises, guided kayak tours and rentals, and Otter Island shelling excursions. 3731 Docksite Road, Edisto Beach. 869-0663 or edistowatersports.com.

FANTA SEA: Set sail from Shem Creek for a sunset cruise. $45 per person. Half-day and offshore charters available. East Coast Yacht. 800-583-1201.

FLYING HIGH OVER CHARLESTON: Tour Charleston and its historic landmarks from the air. Tours start at $60 per person. 569-6148 or www.flyinghighovercharleston.com.

FORT MOULTRIE: 1214 Middle St., Sullivan's Island. Site of American Revolution's first decisive battle. Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $3/ adults, $5/family, $1/seniors, and children 16 & younger/free. 883- 3123.

FORT SUMTER: Trips from Patriots Point in Mount Pleasant and the Interpretive Center near the S.C. Aquarium. $14 adults, $12.50 seniors, $8 ages 6-11, 5 and younger free. 881-7337.

HARBOR KAYAK TOURS: Tour Charleston Harbor with experienced guides. Two-hour tours depart from the Aquarium Wharf dock behind the IMAX Theater at the end of Calhoun street. Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.- noon; Sun. 2-4 p.m. Epic Kayaks. 720-7772.

HARBOR TOURS: Sail the coast and historic ports aboard the Schooner Pride, an authentic 84-foot, three-masted tall ship. Two- hour daytime sails and sunset cruises depart from Aquarium Wharf. $26 adults, $20 children younger than 12. Private charters available. 559-9686 or info@charlestonharbortours.com

HOPSEWEE PLANTATION: On U.S. Highway 17, 12 miles south of Georgetown. Guided tours of original rice plantation home and self- tour of oak grove and gardens. $8 adults, $5 ages 5-17. Open Tue.- Fri. 10 a.m.-4 p.m. 546-7891.

KAYAK, CANOE, HIKING TOURS: Tour Francis Marion National Forest and Charleston area blackwater swamps, rice plantations, saltwater barrier islands, 1,000-year-old cypress trees and 4,000-year-old Indian shell mounds. Individuals and groups welcome. 800-673-0679 or www.natureadventuresoutfitters.com.

LAKE/SWAMP TOURS: Fisheagle Tours offers nature-based tours on Lake Marion aboard a 38-passenger covered pontoon boat. Departs from Santee State Park Wednesday and Saturday at 1 p.m. $13 adults, $12 seniors, $8 children. Group rates available. 800-967-7739.

MAGNOLIA PLANTATION AND GARDENS: Stroll on boardwalks through Audubon Swamp Garden, featuring 60 acres of swamp, with alligators and exotic plants in a natural setting. Plantation house $7, free younger than six. Gardens admission $15 adults, $10 ages 6-12, free younger than 6. With gardens admission, daily guided nature train tour through wildlife refuge and rice fields on Ashley River. 3550 Ashley River Road. 571-1266.

MANDALA SAILING CHARTERS: Sail the waters of the Lowcountry and Folly Beach aboard a 42-foot sailboat. View sunsets, wildlife, including dolphins, otters and more, while listening to Pyrate yarns, Colonial History or live acoustic music. 270-4399.

MUSIC IN MOTION FAMILY FUN CENTER: Open skating every Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday. All-night skating every second and fourth Friday night. Skating and teen dance on Saturday nights. Fun Park open daily at noon with go-karts, miniature golf and carnival rides. Video game room. Parties and more. 832-6077 or www.mimskate.com.

OLD PROVOST DUNGEON: Dungeon where American Patriots were imprisoned during the Revolutionary War. Daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. $7 adults, $3.50 children, free younger than 6. 122 East Bay St. 727- 2165.

OLD SANTEE CANAL PARK: 195-acre park featuring the last one-mile section of the historic Santee Canal. Boardwalks and nature trails weave through Biggin Swamp. $3 adults; $2 seniors and groups of 15 or more; free younger than 6. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. 899-5200.

Ranger-Guided Battlefield Walking Tour: S.C. State Park Service historian-led tour includes information from recent mapping surveys not part of the self-guided tour. Every month on the second Saturday (11 a.m. and 2 p.m.) and Sunday (3 p.m.). Meet at the Battlefield, Rivers Bridge State Historic Site, Ehrhardt. Free with park admission (seniors $1.25, adults $2, children younger than 16 free). 803-267-3675 or rbridgesp@scprt.com.

The Reel Deal Charters, LLC: Inshore saltwater fishing charters targeting a variety of species, crabbing, sightseeing. Freshwater fishing available. Coast Guard-licensed & offers for pickup locations. 761-7663 or www.thereeldealcharters.com.

RIVER CRUISE: Pon Pon Guides Unlimited offers two-hour educational boat tour and birding expedition of Edisto (Pon Pon) River in an intimate setting. Seats limited to four adults. $35 day cruise, $45 night. Contact Capt. Albert at 869-7929.

RIVER PADDLE: Outpost Moe's and ACE Basin Adventures offer an after-work paddle on a Charleston river with a relaxing sunset. 6 p.m. weekdays. Historical tours based on rice culture and plantations offered on weekends. 844-2514.

SANDLAPPER WATER TOURS: Tour Charleston Harbor and estuaries on 45-foot Coast Guard-approved catamaran. Historical, nature and sunset tours departing from the Maritime Center. Tuesday-Sunday. $10- $20. 849-8687.

SANTEE COOPER CHARTERS: Professionally guided fishing trips for striped bass, largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, redfish and sea trout on the Santee Cooper Lakes and rivers. Coast Guard licensed. 899-4325 or www.santeecoopercharters.com.

S.C. AQUARIUM: Visit a world filled with majestic and wondrous creatures. Mon.-Sat. 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sun. noon-5 p.m. Foot of Calhoun Street, past East Bay Street. $15 ages 12-61, $13 ages 62 and older, $8 ages 3-11, $2 off for college students and military with proper ID. 577-3474 or www.scaquarium.org.

Sierra club: Monthly trips include hiking, biking, canoeing, kayaking, walking. www.southcarolina.sierraclub.org/lunz/ events.html.

STRIKE ZONE INSHORE FISHING: Sight cast to large redfish in shallow water. Light spinning tackle and fly rods provided. Many species available. Private charters start at $300 for one or two anglers. Contact Capt. Chris Condon at 224-4665 or visit www.hookreds.com.

WATER MUSIC CHARTERS OF FOLLY BEACH: Nearshore and offshore fishing charters, sailing charters, historical and ecological Morris Island lighthouse tours and custom packages available. Contact Capt. Greg Handal at 762-0382 or visit www.watermusiccharters.com.

Credit: Compiled by The Post and Courier

Company / organization: Name: Barnes & Noble Bookstores Inc; Ticker: BKS; NAICS: 451211; SIC: 5942, 5199; DUNS: 01-211-2496; Name: Coast Guard-US; NAICS: 928110; SIC: 9621

Publication title: The Post and Courier; Charleston, S.C.

Pages: E39

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 6, 2008

Section: PREVIEW

Publisher: The Post and Courier

Place of publication: Charleston, S.C.

Country of publication: United States, Charleston, S.C.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 10615105

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: NEWSPAPER

ProQuest document ID: 374169512

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Copyright: Copyright The Post and Courier Mar 6, 2008

Last updated: 2010-06-24

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 108 of 313

March 9, 2008 (Page 91 of 132)

Publication info: Tallahassee Democrat (1949-2011) ; Tallahassee, Florida [Tallahassee, Florida]09 Mar 2008: 91.

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Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Tallahassee Democrat (1949-2011); Tallahassee, Florida

Volume: 103

Issue: 69

First page: 91

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 9, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Tallahassee, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Tallahassee, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 0738-5153

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2095986200

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Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Mar 9, 2008

Last updated: 2018-08-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 109 of 313

March 9, 2008 (Page 69 of 229)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]09 Mar 2008: 69.

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Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 73

First page: 69

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 9, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2225769316

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Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Mar 9, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-16

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 110 of 313

March 9, 2008 (Page 76 of 319)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]09 Mar 2008: 76.

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Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 48

Issue: 319

First page: 76

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 9, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249035472

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Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Mar 9, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 111 of 313

Look to Europe, Asia for trendy cruises

Author: Creager, Ellen

Publication info: Sunday Gazette - Mail ; Charleston, W.V. [Charleston, W.V]09 Mar 2008: F.6.

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Abstract:

While the Caribbean, Alaska and Mexican Riviera (Pacific coast) remain the top three cruise destinations for Americans, Europe is blossoming and South America and Asia are budding, according to a new survey by Cruise Holidays, the nation's biggest cruise agency.

"Everyone's tired of the same-old, same-old," says Claudia Korenic, operations manager at the Cruise Holidays branch in Shelby Township, Mich.

* More "must-see" ports spread worldwide. Cruise Critic's top ports for 2008 are Amsterdam, Dubrovnik, Hong Kong, Martinique, Maui, Muscat (Oman), Naples (Italy), St. Petersburg (Russia), Sydney and Vancouver. The still fresh Grand Turk port on beautiful Turks and Caicos in the Caribbean is also drawing attention.

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Want to be part of a cruise trend?

Cruise Europe.

Want to be ahead of a cruise trend?

Cruise South America or Asia.

While the Caribbean, Alaska and Mexican Riviera (Pacific coast) remain the top three cruise destinations for Americans, Europe is blossoming and South America and Asia are budding, according to a new survey by Cruise Holidays, the nation's biggest cruise agency.

"Everyone's tired of the same-old, same-old," says Claudia Korenic, operations manager at the Cruise Holidays branch in Shelby Township, Mich.

"South America holds a lot of interest - Machu Picchu, Chile, waterfalls and Rio. It's different from the Caribbean. We're really getting a lot more diverse. People just want to see more of the world.

"My husband and I were just talking this morning - should we go to Europe or South America?"

An estimated 12.8 million people will cruise this year, up from 12.6 million in 2007, predicts the trade group Cruise Lines International. About 18 percent will be non-Americans, so expect a greater international flavor even on American-branded ships.

Here's a rundown on cruise trends you'll see this year:

* Still hot Europe. Expect a Mediterranean cruise to cost about $269 per day per person, up from $250 a day in 2007. That's similar to the cost of cruising Alaska ($259 per day) but more than cruising the Caribbean ($159 per day). The cost increase is mainly due to one thing, says Korenic - supply and demand.

Popular Mediterranean cruises last about 12 days and visit spots like Rome, Turkey and Greece. Northern European Baltic cruises usually stop in ports such as Amsterdam, Scandinavia capitals and St. Petersburg, Russia.

* Interesting South America and Asia cruises. Look hard and be flexible on dates, and you can dig up some great prices, as low as $2,000 for two weeks. The new ship Carnival Splendor launches in July and will sail Baltic cruises in summer, then do three South American cruises in early 2009 - one from Ft. Lauderdale - as it repositions to the West Coast for the spring ($1,799-up, see www.carnival. com)

Cruise Holidays reported its South American bookings are up 23 percent this year, taking people to places like Brazil, Argentina and Chile. Its Australia and Asia bookings are up about 10 percent. Asian cruises can take you from busy Hong Kong, Singapore and Shanghai to remote spots in Vietnam and Thailand.

* New destinations even from Florida. An estimated 17 percent of all American adults have already taken a cruise, so cruise lines keep going farther afield for new ports.

One of Korenic's favorite new itineraries is on the Royal Princess, which is doing 14-day cruises round-trip out of Florida that take passengers all the way to French Guiana and the Amazon in Brazil.

* New luxury small ships that appeal to cruisers looking for something new. The Pearl Sea, a 215-passenger ship debuting in August, will ply Atlantic Canada this fall (eight days for about $4,000). The Jewel River Cruises small ship Imperial Blue debuts May 15; it will run seven-day luxury cruises from Paris to Rouen on the Seine (about $5,000; see www.jewelriver cruises.com).

* More "must-see" ports spread worldwide. Cruise Critic's top ports for 2008 are Amsterdam, Dubrovnik, Hong Kong, Martinique, Maui, Muscat (Oman), Naples (Italy), St. Petersburg (Russia), Sydney and Vancouver. The still fresh Grand Turk port on beautiful Turks and Caicos in the Caribbean is also drawing attention.

Luxury cruise line Seabourn will stop this year in ports so obscure that you might not even be able to find them on a map: Opatija and Split in Croatia ; Trieste, Brindisi and Bari, Italy; Lundy Island and Isles of Scilly in Britain; and St. Raphael in France.

* More exotic world cruise itineraries.

* Continuation of "flightseeing" air tours despite four accidents in 2007 that killed 15 people in Alaska and Hawaii.

* Possible softer prices. The poor U.S. economy may mean fewer Americans will be able to afford a cruise later this year despite rosy industry predictions, reports the trade journal Travel Weekly. If that happens, look for discounts.

"I've already seen some phenomenal deals," Korenic says.

Credit: Detroit Free Press

People: Korenic, Claudia

Publication title: Sunday Gazette - Mail; Charleston, W.V.

First page: F.6

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 9, 2008

Section: Life

Publisher: Charleston Newspapers

Place of publication: Charleston, W.V.

Country of publication: United States, Charleston, W.V.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 332410745

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/332410745?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Charleston Newspapers Mar 9, 2008

Last updated: 2017-11-04

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 112 of 313

Financials lead FTSE sell-off

Author: Orr, Robert; Hume, Neil

Publication info: FT.com ; London (Mar 13, 2008).

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Wolseley closed at a five-year low last night as analysts downgraded the stock in anticipation of a sharp fall in profits.

Badly hit by the deteriorating housing and construction markets in the US and Europe, the City expects profit to fall by about a third when the plumbing and heating group reports figures on Monday.

Goldman Sachs and ABN Amro both slashed the stock to "sell" yesterday; the later went a step further and said Wolseley may need additional financing.

ABN analyst John Messenger said Wolseley required a stronger balance sheet to see it through a likely deterioration in the trading environment and to allow it to continue to fund the acquisition of distressed competitors.

"Wolseley needs additional capital to underpin its business model for equity holders and create the capacity for Wolseley's operational management to maximise opportunities into the current downturn," Mr Messenger wrote.

Wolseley closed down 6.3 per cent at 550p, its lowest level since April 2003.

The FTSE 100 also ended sharply lower amid fears of a possible US recession, continued weakness in the US dollar, fresh highs for crude and for gold and the default of an investment fund. The benchmark fell 84 points, or 1.4 per cent, to 5,692.4 while the mid-cap FTSE 250 dropped 187.9 points, or 1.9 per cent, to 9,801.5.

While the list of blue-chip fallers was broad-based, financial stocks featured heavily. Insurer Royal & Sun Alliance lost 4.8 per cent to 123.2p, Royal Bank of Scotland dropped 4.6 per cent to 342p and London Stock Exchange eased 3.5 per cent at GBP12.78 after earlier touching the GBP12.43-a-share that Nasdaq offered for the company last year.

Record crude prices dragged heavy fuel-users British Airways and Carnival 5 per cent lower to 130lp and 3.8 per cent lower to GBP18.64 respectively.

After gaining sharply in the previous session on news that it had held informal talks with FTSE 100-bound mining peer Eurasian Natural Resources Corporation, Kazakhmys gave back 2 per cent to GBP17.45. Charles Cooper, analyst at Evolution Securities, played down the chances of a takeover, noting Kazakhmys's 45 per cent shareholder Vladimir Kim was "likely to want to continue to grow Kazakhmys and play an important role in the company's future". ENRC fell 6.2 per cent to 890p.

Moving in the other direction was Xstrata, which gained 1.7 per cent to GBP39.21 as hopes of a bid lingered on. Dealers cited reports from Brazil that the chief executives of Xstrata, possible suitor Vale and Xstrata's largest shareholder Glencore had met to try to find a solution to the impasse over a proposed buyout of the Anglo-Swiss miner. Dealers also reported heavy activity in GBP40 and GBP42 Xstrata call options.

Defensive stocks made up the bulk of the gainers. Unilever was among them, rising 3.2 per cent to GBP16.51 as Swiss rival Nestle raised its sales forecasts.

Utilities were also to the fore, partly on relief that the UK government had resisted calls for it to use this week's Budget to levy a "windfall tax" on the industry.

The chancellor asked the industry to treble its contributions to social energy tariffs to GBP150m, but Morgan Stanley said this was "not a material sum". The government proposals are "not overly negative, and certainly not as harsh as recent press reports suggested," the bank concluded.

Drax Group gained 1.4 per cent to 519p despite news that the chancellor had tightened a tax loophole that Cazenove said could be worth GBP180m, or 57p-a-share, to the power group.

The main loser from the Budget was Rank Group, which fell 9 per cent to 83p as the chancellor ignored pleas from the bingo industry to remove the "double taxation" that means revenues are subject to both VAT and gross profit tax of 15 per cent.

Benfield slumped 11.2 per cent to 230p as the insurance broker reported lower profits and said this year's trading result was likely to be marginally below 2007's.

Greene King ticked 0.6 per cent higher to 632lp as a late buzz suggested Mitchells & Butlers was considering an approach for the pubs group as it fends off interest from Punch Taverns. M&B lost 4.6 per cent to 394p.

Company: Wolseley

Publication title: FT.com; London

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 13, 2008

Publisher: The Financial Times Limited

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 229125975

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/229125975?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright Financial Times Ltd. 2008. All rights reserved.)

Last updated: 2017-11-08

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 113 of 313

Analysts see acute need for liquidity at exposed Wolseley

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Financial Times ; London (UK) [London (UK)]14 Mar 2008: 46.

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Abstract:

After gaining sharply in the previous session on news that it had held informal talks with FTSE 100-bound mining peer Eurasian Natural Resources Corporation , Kazakhmys gave back 2 per cent to Pounds 17.45. Charles Cooper, an analyst at Evolution Securities, played down the chances of a takeover, noting Kazakhmys's 45 per cent shareholder Vladimir Kim was "likely to want to continue to grow Kazakhmys and play an important role in the company's future". ENRC fell 6.2 per cent to 890p.

Moving in the other direction was Xstrata , which gained 1.7 per cent to Pounds 39.21 as hopes of a bid lingered. Dealers cited reports from Brazil that the chief executives of Xstrata, possible suitor Vale and Xstrata's largest shareholder Glencore had met to try to find a solution to the impasse over a proposed buyout of the Anglo-Swiss miner. Dealers also reported heavy activity in Pounds 40 and Pounds 42 Xstrata call options.

The chancellor asked the industry to treble its contributions to social energy tariffs to Pounds 150m, but Morgan Stanley said this was "not a material sum". The government proposals are "not overly negative, and certainly not as harsh as recent press reports suggested", the bank concluded.

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By NEIL HUME and ROBERT ORR

Wolseley closed at a five-year low last night as analysts downgraded the stock in expectation of a sharp fall in profits.

Badly hit by the deteriorating housing and construction markets in the US and Europe, the City expects profits to fall by about a third when the plumbing and heating group reports figures on Monday.

Goldman Sachs and ABN Amro both slashed the stock to "sell" yesterday, while the latter went a step further and said Wolseley may need additional financing.

ABN analyst John Messenger said Wolseley required a stronger balance sheet to see it through a likely deterioration in the trading environment and to allow it to continue to fund the acquisition of distressed competitors.

"Wolseley needs additional capital to underpin its business model for equity holders and create the capacity for Wolseley's operational management to maximise opportunities into the current downturn," Mr Messenger wrote.

Wolseley closed down 6.3 per cent at 550p, its lowest level since April 2003.

The FTSE 100 also ended sharply lower amid fears of a US recession, continued weakness in the dollar, fresh highs for crude and for gold and the default of an investment fund. The benchmark fell 84 points, or 1.4 per cent, to 5,692.4 while the mid-cap FTSE 250 dropped 187.9 points, or 1.9 per cent, to 9,801.5.

While the list of blue-chip fallers was broad-based, financial stocks featured heavily. Insurer Royal & Sun Alliance lost 4.8 per cent to 123.2p, Royal Bank of Scotland dropped 4.6 per cent to 342 1/4p and London Stock Exchange eased 3.5 per cent at Pounds 12.78 after earlier touching the Pounds 12.43-a-share that Nasdaq offered for the company.

Record crude prices dragged heavy fuel-users British Airways and Carnival 5 per cent lower to 230 1/2p and 3.8 per cent lower to Pounds 18.64 respectively.

After gaining sharply in the previous session on news that it had held informal talks with FTSE 100-bound mining peer Eurasian Natural Resources Corporation , Kazakhmys gave back 2 per cent to Pounds 17.45. Charles Cooper, an analyst at Evolution Securities, played down the chances of a takeover, noting Kazakhmys's 45 per cent shareholder Vladimir Kim was "likely to want to continue to grow Kazakhmys and play an important role in the company's future". ENRC fell 6.2 per cent to 890p.

Moving in the other direction was Xstrata , which gained 1.7 per cent to Pounds 39.21 as hopes of a bid lingered. Dealers cited reports from Brazil that the chief executives of Xstrata, possible suitor Vale and Xstrata's largest shareholder Glencore had met to try to find a solution to the impasse over a proposed buyout of the Anglo-Swiss miner. Dealers also reported heavy activity in Pounds 40 and Pounds 42 Xstrata call options.

Defensive stocks made up the bulk of the gainers. Unilever was among them, rising 3.2 per cent to Pounds 16.51 as Swiss rival Nestle raised its sales forecasts.

Utilities were also to the fore, partly on relief that the UK government had resisted calls for it to use this week's Budget to levy a "windfall tax" on the industry.

The chancellor asked the industry to treble its contributions to social energy tariffs to Pounds 150m, but Morgan Stanley said this was "not a material sum". The government proposals are "not overly negative, and certainly not as harsh as recent press reports suggested", the bank concluded.

Drax Group gained 1.4 per cent to 519p in spite of news that the chancellor had tightened a tax loophole that Cazenove said could be worth Pounds 180m, or 57p-a-share, to the power group.

The main loser from the Budget was Rank Group , which fell 9 per cent to 83 1/4p as the chancellor ignored pleas from the bingo industry to remove the "double taxation" that means revenues are subject to both VAT and gross profit tax of 15 per cent.

Benfield slumped 11.2 per cent to 230 3/4p as the insurance broker reported lower profits and said this year's trading result was likely to be marginally below 2007's.

Sports Direct International was the leading mid-cap gainer, up 5.5 per cent to 114 1/2p, as the sporting goods company said it was confident of meeting analysts' revised earnings targets for the year.

People: Hume, Neil

Publication title: Financial Times; London (UK)

First page: 46

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 14, 2008

Section: MARKETS

Publisher: The Financial Times Limited

Place of publication: London (UK)

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London (UK)

Publication subject: Business And Economics--Banking And Finance, Political Science

ISSN: 03071766

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 250076424

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/250076424?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright Financial Times Ltd. 2008. All rights reserved.)

Last updated: 2017-11-14

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 114 of 313

Daily Mail, London, market report column

Author: Foster, Geoff

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune Business News ; Washington [Washington]14 Mar 2008.

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Abstract:

Mar. 14--Analysts threw the kitchen sink at Wolseley ahead of Monday's interim results, sending shares of the world's number one distributor of heating and plumbing products tumbling to an all-time low. It was further signs of financial market stress that wiped out many gains scored after the Federal Reserve's move on Monday to pump UKpound 100 billion of new cash into the system to ease credit strains.

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Mar. 14--Analysts threw the kitchen sink at Wolseley ahead of Monday's interim results, sending shares of the world's number one distributor of heating and plumbing products tumbling to an all-time low. As investors big and small pulled the plug, the stock plummeted to 531 1/2p before closing 37p down at 550p, valuing the group at UKpound 3.6 billion and some 50 percent below its peak.

Goldman Sachs downgraded to sell from neutral and slashed its target price to 565p from 775p, while ABN Amro also went to sell from hold and lopped UKpound 1 from its target price to 530p. Both brokers gave the same reason for turning negative, as construction markets weaken in both the US and Europe, Wolseley's earnings will continue to decline.

Wolseley derives around 30 percent of profits from the US and will be badly hit by the deteriorating US housing market. Over the past couple of years it swallowed dozens of its smaller rivals and more than half of those were in the US.

In January, it warned trading profits for a five-month period would be around 25 percent down and sales just 2 percent higher, due to challenging conditions in the US. Since then conditions are believed to have got a lot worse, and broker Evolution Securities expects the group to announce a 23 percent decline in first-half profits to UKpound 235m on Monday.

Hedge fund Carlyle Capital's oh so public troubles spooked the market. The credit crisis is not going away and with lending banks calling for higher margin protection across the sector, fears are growing that there will be a lot more hedge fund casualties in the coming weeks.

It was further signs of financial market stress that wiped out many gains scored after the Federal Reserve's move on Monday to pump UKpound 100 billion of new cash into the system to ease credit strains. A wave of profit-taking saw the Footsie fall 147.5 points before closing 84 off at 5,692.4, while the FTSE 250 shed 187.9 points to 9,801.5. Wall Street nosedived 234 points initially as recession fears grew after US retail sales unexpectedly fell 0.6 percent in February, against expectations for 0.2 percent rise. A plunging dollar and a record $110 a barrel oil price just added to the market's woes.

Fuel cost concerns dragged British Airways down to its lowest level since December 2004. The stock dropped to 224 1/2p before closing 12p off at 230 1/2p. Low-cost airline easyJet lost 20 1/2p at 396p. Cruise giant Carnival sank 74p to 1864p.

Reflecting much reduced turnover and growing competition, the London Stock Exchange fell 46p more to 1278p to trade almost 36 percent below the year's high. Meanwhile, Simon Brickles" PLUS Markets, the independent stock exchange in London, continues to build market share. In February, more than 400 small and mid-cap securities saw 50 percent or more of their trades transacted on PLUS and not the LSE. The close was 1/4p easier at 15p.

Reflecting its defensive qualities, Unilever jumped 51p to 1651p.

Rumours of a bid from RWE helped Scottish & Southern Energy rise 36p to 1456p. Twenty four hours earlier the German utility was supposed to be buying British Energy, 14 1/2p cheaper at 573p.

Revived talk of a UKpound 42-a-share cash offer from Brazil's mining group Vale left Xstrata 68p higher at 3921p.

Jeweller Signet lost 1 3/4p to 55p as the price of gold traded at $1,000 an ounce for the first time, pushed higher by a weak dollar and US recession fears. Unbelievable when you consider that Prime Minister Gordon Brown "ignored advice" before selling 395 tonnes of the stuff between July 1999 and March 2002 at an average price of $275.6 an ounce.

Profit-taking following news of its promotion to the Footsie left Cobham defenceless at 204 1/4p, down 7 1/4p.

Chemring climbed 94p to 2367p after winning a five-year contract for the supply of M212 flares to the US Department of Defense worth between UKpound 2.7m and UKpound 190m in the period. Investec says buy and raised its target price to UKpound 26.

Internet fashion seller ASOS touched UKpound 3 and then closed 2 3/4p up at a year's high of 284p following an investor and analysts visit to the company's London headquarters. Broker Kaupthing returned a buyer with a target price of 350p. It believes a number of growth initiatives are on the horizon that will cement it position as one of Britain's top e-tailers. Watch for the upgrades.

Horizon Technology, the IT services company, soared 35 3/4p to 69p on news of a bid approach.

Stockbrokers are feeding off scraps during the credit crisis, but Alexander Securities is happy with life. Set up last year by corporate financier David Scott and dealer Alon Bull, the specialist broker is busy hiring quality staff to try and emulate Numis and Collins Stewart. Bull will eventually head up a market-making operation to take on his old firms Evolution and Winterfloods.

Credit: Daily Mail, London

Subject: Profits; Acquisitions & mergers; Stock exchanges; Retail sales; Hedge funds

Location: United States--US

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune Business News; Washington

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 14, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: Financial

ProQuest document ID: 465806112

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/465806112?accountid=4840

Copyright: To see more of the Daily Mail and the Financial Mail on Sunday, or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.thisismoney.com. Copyright (c) 2008, Daily Mail, London Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Last updated: 2017-10-31

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 115 of 313

The Americas: A portrait in red; AIDS in Brazil

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: The Economist ; London  Vol. 386, Iss. 8571,  (Mar 15, 2008): n/a.

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Abstract:

Keeping HIV/AIDS under control in a country where sex rivals football as the national sport is an impressive achievement, and over the past 20 years the government has done just that. Now, however, the disease has spread across Brazil (see maps). Although the total number of cases remains low at 620,000, representing 0.6% of those aged 15-49, the change in the profile of sufferers is taking the fight to places where it will be much harder to win. Brazil's response to the epidemic has been energetic, and it has taken three forms. First, there has always been an insistence on the need to wear condoms, particularly at carnival time. Second, the government funds free treatment for anyone with AIDS. Third, NGOs have been good at publicising the cause and at holding federal and local governments to their promises.

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One of the world's most successful AIDS programmes faces new problems

BRAZIL'S government is accustomed to being lampooned for being wasteful, ineffectual and corrupt. Occasionally, though, it does something really well. Keeping HIV/AIDS under control in a country where sex rivals football as the national sport is an impressive achievement, and over the past 20 years the government has done just that. Now, however, the disease has spread across Brazil (see maps). Although the total number of cases remains low at 620,000, representing 0.6% of those aged 15-49, the change in the profile of sufferers is taking the fight to places where it will be much harder to win.

"The epidemic has now taken the contours of the general population," says Mariangela Simao, who runs the federal government's AIDS programme in Brasilia, the capital. "It has become a portrait of Brazil."

Brazil's epidemic began life among gay men in the south-east of the country, probably after travelling south from the United States rather than west from Africa. Had the virus not affected some white men living in the country's most prosperous region, the response might have been less energetic, some suggest under their breath. Thankfully, it was energetic, and it has taken three forms.

First, there has always been an insistence on the need to wear condoms, particularly at carnival time (when the usual supply of free prophylactics increases by 40%). The World Bank recently helped the government to buy a billion condoms (for 190m inhabitants)--around a tenth of the world's total supply. It took a year to find factories with sufficient capacity and the right quality controls to fill the order.

Second, the government funds free treatment for anyone with AIDS. This has involved side-stepping patents on anti-retroviral drugs to keep the bill down. Brazil saved an estimated $30m last year through the compulsory licensing of Efavirenz, a drug developed by Merck. But this strategy has its limits: the launch onto the market of one new drug has been delayed despite undergoing some clinical trials in Brazil.

Third, NGOs have been good at publicising the cause and at holding federal and local governments to their promises. This is particularly important in the north and north-east of the country where the disease is spreading fastest, and where some politicians have a semi-feudal relationship with voters. Cristina Pimenta, head of the Brazilian Interdisciplinary AIDS Association, says that NGOs are also now focused on making sure women know about the disease, get tested and, if necessary, get treated. During this year's carnival in Pernambuco, a poor state in the north-east, a government campaign was aimed almost exclusively at women.

As AIDS has spread through Brazil, it has gone from being an almost exclusively male disease to one that does not discriminate by sex. The responsibility for this lies in drug users sharing dirty needles and bisexual men--35% of male HIV/AIDS sufferers who have sex with other men say they also sleep with women.

As a result, women now account for ten out of every 25 new cases. Among young teenagers, more girls have the disease than boys. Women are less likely to be aware that they are at risk, too. According to one study, while 80% of men say they use a condom during casual sex, only 40% of women say their partners do. (There may be some lying here, as this suggests that the unprotected 20% of men get very little sleep. But it points to a real problem.) Brazil is still an overwhelmingly Catholic country where abortion is illegal. Persuading women in places far from the country's cosmopolitan big cities that they must get their partners to use condoms is hard.

Diagnosing people with HIV/AIDS and making sure they take their medication in the correct way has also got harder with the geographic spread of the disease. Brazil's health-care system is very patchy, as a recent report by the AIDS ministry for the UN shows. Victims in the north-east of the country are significantly less likely to be diagnosed than those in the south-east. For every 100,000 inhabitants in the south-east, 27 will have an AIDS test (this excludes pregnant women, who are frequently tested), compared with just 17 in the north-east. People with HIV/AIDS live longer in the south-east than they do in the north-east. And so on.

The risk is that people who do not follow their treatment correctly then develop drug-resistant strains of the virus. The disease would then become even more expensive to treat as newer drugs are required. This would come on top of the cost of regular health care for sufferers, who tend to need treatment for other health problems too. None of which means there is anything inevitable about AIDS spreading even further in Brazil. But from here on, it will all get a lot tougher.

Subject: Public health; Disease control; Acquired immune deficiency syndrome--AIDS; Epidemics

Location: Brazil

Classification: 9173: Latin America; 1200: Social policy

Publication title: The Economist; London

Volume: 386

Issue: 8571

Pages: n/a

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 15, 2008

Dateline: sao paulo

Section: The Americas

Publisher: The Economist Intelligence Unit N.A., Incorporated

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United States, London

Publication subject: Business And Economics--Economic Systems And Theories, Economic History, Business And Economics--Economic Situation And Conditions

ISSN: 00130613

CODEN: ECSTA3

Source type: Magazines

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

Document feature: Maps

ProQuest document ID: 223990203

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/223990203?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 The Economist Newspaper Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Last updated: 2017-10-31

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 116 of 313

March 16, 2008 (Page 90 of 356)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]16 Mar 2008: 90.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

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Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 48

Issue: 326

First page: 90

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 16, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249241476

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249241476?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Mar 16, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 117 of 313

BULL RIDING ROPES IN BRAZILIANS SOUTH FLORIDA ASSOCIATION LURES RODEO RIDERS WHO DREAM OF COMPETING IN U.S. PRO CIRCUIT

Author: Baier, Elizabeth; Flor, Luis Enrique

Publication info: South Florida Sun - Sentinel ; Fort Lauderdale, Fla. [Fort Lauderdale, Fla]16 Mar 2008: F.1.

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He also recently won first in a Professional Bull Riders' event in Mobile, Ala., and has built a loyal following around the United States. Many fans regularly ask for his autograph or scream, "Hi, Brazil" or "We love Brazil," he said.

"Every time when they come with the Brazilian flag, I cry," [Joana Bueno] said. "People didn't give me much credit in the beginning. Now, I've got great sponsors ... people who believe in me."

Photo(s) Graphic(s); Getting a grip: A bull rider prepares his rope before a ride at the Bergeron Rodeo Grounds in Davie. Riders coat their ropes with a sticky, crystallized glue that strengthens their grip.Photography by Adam Wisneski STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERtuning up: [Jaime] do Santos, center, sings with friends and bull riders before the start of a bull-riding tournament at Bergeron Rodeo Grounds in Davie.wild times: Clyde Alves struggles to hold on to his bull. Had Alves been able to ride the wildest bull of the night, he would have won the event.getting booted: Rodrigo Almerta struggles to keep his boot on as other bull riders try to pull it off before the start of a bull-riding event at Bergeron Rodeo Grounds in Davie. Practical jokes are common as the riders wait for their turn.Map: Brazil - Strong cowboy traditions. Staff graphic/Renee Kwok

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For the past year and a half, Jaime do Santos has traveled the United States in pursuit of a single dream: to compete among the Professional Bull Riders, the major leagues of bull riding for those tenacious enough to stay atop a massive animal for eight seconds. To help fulfill that goal, do Santos joined the Brazilian Bull Riders Association of South Florida. The smaller, Fort Lauderdale-based group has attracted hundreds of Brazilian cowboys and cowgirls to the region in the past decade.

"Every cowboy's dream is to come here to the United States and compete," said do Santos, 35.

With aspirations of big money and fame, many members in the Brazilian association share do Santos' vision of competing - and succeeding - in the U.S. rodeo circuit, according to the group's president, Joana Bueno. Many want to earn money to send to relatives back home.

Do Santos was lured by the professionalism of U.S. rodeos and their bigger cash prizes. This year, he is competing in Professional Bull Riders rodeos around the country to qualify for the circuit's finals in Las Vegas in October.

Bueno formed the Brazilian association in 1998 after working as a rodeo producer in Brazil. At the time, she said she realized many of her rodeo friends were good enough to compete in the United States but lacked the means and connections.

Now, she recruits about half of the competitors for her South Florida rodeo events in the Brazilian states of Minas Gerais and Mato Grosso. Her group is small compared to the Professional Bull Riders, but it often serves as a stepping stone to national circuits, she said.

"Ten years ago, people thought I was crazy," Bueno said. "They used to think of Brazil as all samba, carnival, you know something fun, not cowboys. But now we changed that. ... The best bull riders in the world are Brazilian."

In 2007, five of the top 15 riders on the Professional Bull Riders circuit were Brazilian, according to the group's Web site. That includes Guilherme Marchi, of Leme, Brazil, who placed second in the season standings and whose career earnings with the Professional Bull Riders association are about $1.5 million.

Competing at that level is do Santos' dream.

A native of Teixeira de Freitas, Brazil, do Santos started riding bulls on his father's ranch and watching U.S. rodeos on television when he was 12. Since he's been in the United States, he's distinguished himself as a top bull rider, winning first place in the local association's January tournament at the Bergeron Rodeo Grounds in Davie.

He also recently won first in a Professional Bull Riders' event in Mobile, Ala., and has built a loyal following around the United States. Many fans regularly ask for his autograph or scream, "Hi, Brazil" or "We love Brazil," he said.

The Brazilian rodeo association includes 20 permanent members who live around the United States, Bueno said. At each rodeo, she invites 40 riders - 20 Brazilians and 20 Americans - to compete. In addition to the January event, the group plans a second event for May, Bueno said.

Alberto Gmez, president of the Rodeo Association of Davie, praises the Brazilian riders: "In addition to the quality of their riding, they bring a tremendous party."

The Davie rodeo has offered foreign-born enthusiasts like do Santos and Juliano da Silva, of Pompano Beach, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to make names for themselves on the American circuit, Bueno said.

Da Silva is one of the newest members of the Brazilian association. He wants to compete on the U.S. rodeo circuit for a year so he can send money to his mother, who lives in the Minas Geras, he said.

"When I saw this rodeo, I got emotional," da Silva, 28, said through an interpreter of the Bergeron arena. "In Brazil, it's good. Here, it's a lot better."

Giving riders like da Silva an opportunity to compete fulfills a dream for Bueno.

"Every time when they come with the Brazilian flag, I cry," Bueno said. "People didn't give me much credit in the beginning. Now, I've got great sponsors ... people who believe in me."

Elizabeth Baier can be reached at ebaier@sun-sentinel.com or 954-385-7912.

VIDEO: Watch the Brazilian Bull Riders Association at Sun-Sentinel.com/brazilrodeo

Illustration

Photo(s) Graphic(s); Caption: Getting a grip: A bull rider prepares his rope before a ride at the Bergeron Rodeo Grounds in Davie. Riders coat their ropes with a sticky, crystallized glue that strengthens their grip.Photography by Adam Wisneski STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERtuning up: Jaime do Santos, center, sings with friends and bull riders before the start of a bull-riding tournament at Bergeron Rodeo Grounds in Davie.wild times: Clyde Alves struggles to hold on to his bull. Had Alves been able to ride the wildest bull of the night, he would have won the event.getting booted: Rodrigo Almerta struggles to keep his boot on as other bull riders try to pull it off before the start of a bull-riding event at Bergeron Rodeo Grounds in Davie. Practical jokes are common as the riders wait for their turn.Map: Brazil - Strong cowboy traditions. Staff graphic/Renee Kwok

People: Bueno, Joana

Publication title: South Florida Sun - Sentinel; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

First page: F.1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 16, 2008

Dateline: DAVIE

Section: Outlook

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 387662125

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/387662125?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by the Sun-Sentinel)

Last updated: 2017-11-09

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 118 of 313

Everyone's a Brazil nut

Author: Rosenthal, John

Publication info: Crain's Chicago Business ; Chicago  Vol. 31, Iss. 11,  (Mar 17, 2008): 28.

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To allay worries about devaluation, experts advise investors to hold their assets and liabilities in the same currency to avoid getting burned by a sudden change in the exchange rate.

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Brazil has long captured hearts with its samba beat, Carnivals and the girls from Ipanema. But in the past three years, the country has drawn the attention of international real estate investors, too.

"We love Brazil," says Gary Garrabrant, CEO of Equity International, a Chicago private-equity firm that has invested $800 million in a Brazilian homehuilder, a mall developer and an office developer. "If you asked me to name the top five countries for investing, the first three would be Brazil."

Why is he so smitten?

With 186 million people, Brazil has the largest population in Latin America, 13 cities with more than a million people each, a diversified economy and "a deep reservoir of outstanding management talent, which is unique in emerging markets," Mr. Garrabrant says.

But Brazil's biggest allure has been the government's success in taming the hyperinflation - at times topping 1,000% - that plagued the country in the 1980s and 1990s. Today Brazil's inflation rate is 4.5%.

Growing buying power among consumers means greater demand for warehouses to store products and more shopping centers in which to sell them. In Brazil, there are only 367 malls, one for every 500,000 people. The United States has 90,000, one per 3,300 people.

John Bucksbaum, chairman of General Growth Properties Inc., a Chicago REIT, has another reason to hit the malls. "The ownership of shopping centers in Brazil is fragmented. That's an opportunity that was very appealing to us."

Working with its local partner, Aliansce Shopping Centers S.A., General Growth now owns or manages 18 malls in 10 cities across Brazil. Their newest, Bangu in Rio de Janeiro, was converted from a vacant textile mill in October. Its 200 shops and 1,000-seat food court are expected to draw a million shoppers a month.

But investing in Brazil isn't without risk. A local custom that can trip up novice investors is an informal practice of allowing commercial tenants to break their leases at the end of every 12-month cycle. Developers have learned to side-step this problem with what's called a "build-to-suit." They don't just buy buildings but build them to the tenants specifications or make tenants pay for improvements as part of the lease. There's less chance tenants will move if they've paid for the upgrades.

Inflation and currency fluctuations remain a concern. To allay worries about devaluation, experts advise investors to hold their assets and liabilities in the same currency to avoid getting burned by a sudden change in the exchange rate. They also suggest indexing leases to the inflation rate to minimize risk of hyperinflation.

"There will be hiccups along the way, so you've better have a stomach for it," says Thomas McDonald, chief strategic officer for Equity International. "But Brazil is past the tipping point. It's not if they become a global power, but when."

Subject: Foreign exchange rates; Hyperinflation; Private equity; Shopping centers; Emerging markets; International markets; Commercial real estate

Location: Brazil Chicago Illinois

Classification: 8390: Retailing industry; 3400: Investment analysis & personal finance; 1110: Economic conditions & forecasts; 1120: Economic policy & planning; 9190: United States; 8360: Real estate; 1300: International trade & foreign investment

Publication title: Crain's Chicago Business; Chicago

Volume: 31

Issue: 11

Pages: 28

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 17, 2008

Publisher: Crain Communications, Incorporated

Place of publication: Chicago

Country of publication: United States, Chicago

Publication subject: Business And Economics

ISSN: 01496956

CODEN: CCHBDB

Source type: Magazines

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

Document feature: Photographs

ProQuest document ID: 198442265

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/198442265?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Crain Communications, Incorporated Mar 17, 2008

Last updated: 2010-06-06

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 119 of 313

dance fitness: Drop the barbells and do a ballroom blitz to help you blast away the fat

Author: Little, Rebecca

Publication info: Chicago Tribune ; Chicago, Ill. [Chicago, Ill]17 Mar 2008: 42.

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Jessica Goldman, founder of All About Dance in Lincoln Park, says the show has contributed to a rise in enrollment for her dance classes, possibly because of the fitness factor. Legs, arms and mostly hips, as the dance incorporates a lot of hip rolling Jive What it is: A Latin dance that has influences in the boogie, rock and roll 'n' African-American swing. Legs, hips, arms because it's characterized by pumping action of the legs and quick turns Quickstep What it is: A lively, joyful dance that includes jumps, kicks, runs and a lot of momentum.

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At long last, reality TV is giving us the gift of Penn Jillette dancing the cha cha.

"Dancing with the Stars," returning at 7 p.m. Monday, always plays fast and loose with the definition of "star." This season it may be doing so with "dancing," too, given the lineup of less athletic participants than usual.

Jillette, Adam Corolla and ... Steve Guttenberg? But hey, if these guys are willing to try it, why can't the rest of us? As any fan of the show knows, the stars lose a lot of weight and get much fitter the longer they remain on the show. Dancing, it seems, is a great workout.

Jessica Goldman, founder of All About Dance in Lincoln Park, says the show has contributed to a rise in enrollment for her dance classes, possibly because of the fitness factor.

"Never in a million years did we think we'd have so many adults," Goldman says. "A lot of people have dropped their [gym] memberships and take classes here. People leave dripping in sweat and it's a great time -- more fun than running on a treadmill. [The show] has shown the world that you can get fit while dancing."

Mari Ford, co-owner of Dance Center Chicago in North Center, agrees.

"A good number of people reference 'Dancing with the Stars'" Ford says. "It's had a positive influence."

We asked the experts to weigh in on the fit factor of the dances performed on the show.

Cha cha

What it is: A flirtatious, up-tempo Latin dance that originates from Cuba and is "the most popular Latin dance as far as the standard ballroom dances go," Ford says.

Intensity: High. Dancer will need considerable aerobic capacity to keep up with the music. "Latin rhythms are syncopated and more complex than some of the more standard rhythms," Ford says.

Who should dance: "If you like salsa dancing or nightclub dancing, the cha cha would be a good choice," Ford says.

What it works: Hips, legs and arms

Samba

What it is: Derived from Brazil's Rio Carnival, this party dance is done to the complex rhythms of South American and African influences.

Intensity: High

Who should dance: Singletons, choke back the bitterness. Ford says the samba does not have to be a couple's dance; some studios offer samba aerobics done in front of a mirror.

What it works: Hips and legs from movements around the floor. The dramatic movements with outstretched arms work the arms.

Waltz

What it is: A slow dance characterized by lilting actions.

Intensity: Low to medium

Who should dance: Beginners. It's an elegant, smooth dance that is one of the easiest to master.

What it works: Legs

Foxtrot

What it is: A medium tempo ballroom dance, done primarily in closed position.

Intensity: Low to medium

Who should dance: Although the "slow-slow, quick-quick, slow" pattern can be tricky to master, the foxtrot is not a bad beginners' dance. It is among the most popular of the ballroom dances and works across a variety of musical styles. "It's a very versatile style of dance," Ford says.

What it works: Primarily legs through the strolling, gliding steps

Tango

What it is: A smooth, romantic dance that is danced more tightly than others.

Intensity: Medium. "The couple stays in closed dance position and a close embrace," Ford says.

Who should dance: This one is for lovers.

What it works: Mostly the lower body, legs and feet

Rumba

What it is: This sensual Latin dance is meant to evoke a woman wooing a guy with her feminine wiles, moving in and then pulling away. Essentially, it's a dance of playing hard to get.

Intensity: Slow or medium

Who should dance: Couples looking for a romantic workout, as it might be awkward with a stranger. Either way, bring a mint.

What it works: Legs, arms and mostly hips, as the dance incorporates a lot of hip rolling

Jive

What it is: A Latin dance that has influences in the boogie, rock and roll 'n' African-American swing.

Intensity: High; danced to up-tempo music.

Who should dance: Those who aren't afraid of cutting loose -- and possibly couples where the lady has more skills than her partner. "There's lots of freestyle, meaning the couples dance independently instead of being connected in dance position," Ford says. As an added bonus? There are a lot of quick turns and spins for the female partner.

What it works: Legs, hips, arms because it's characterized by pumping action of the legs and quick turns

Quickstep

What it is: A lively, joyful dance that includes jumps, kicks, runs and a lot of momentum.

Intensity: High. "It's the fastest of the smooth dances," Ford says.

Who should dance: Anyone who loves to freestyle dance but wants to learn more structure. Mostly danced in closed dance position, so the arms are stationery but the feet go buck wild.

What it works: Legs

Mambo

What it is: The mambo is the precursor to the salsa, Ford says, although it is danced more slowly than its offspring and has its roots in the Caribbean.

Intensity: High

Who should dance: Anyone looking for a stylized workout with high aerobic intensity. "It's a celebration of life," Ford says. "It's very flirtatious."

What it works: Hips, hips, hips

Paso Doble

What it is: This one tells a doozy of a story. Known as the dance of the bullfighter, the man is the bullfighter and the woman is his cape. "He is using her in a way to fight the bull," Ford says.

Intensity: High

Who should dance: Men who have something to prove. "It's a very macho kind of dance; there's lots of stomping feet and hurling the girl into very dramatic poses," Ford says.

What it works: Hips, legs, arms

Viennese waltz

What it is: An up-tempo waltz that "is a very grand style of dance with beautiful, sweeping movements," Ford says.

Intensity: High

Who should dance: People who have graduated from the waltz or are looking for a more challenging couple's dance. It includes much more rotations and spins.

What it works: Legs

- - -

THE DANCE DUOS

ABC's "Dancing with the Stars" kicks off this week. At 7 p.m. Monday, the male stars and their partners will dance either the foxtrot or the cha cha. At 8 p.m. Tuesday, the female stars and their men will do the same dances. All teams dance the quickstep or mambo on March 24, leading to a double elimination on March 25.

Adam Carolla & Julianne Hough

Cristian De La Fuente & Cheryl Burke

Steve Guttenberg & Anna Trebunskaya

Marlee Matlin & Fabian Sanchez

Priscilla Presley & Louis Van Amstel

Jason Taylor & Edyta Sliwinska

Marissa Jaret Winokur & Tony Dovolani

Kristi Yamaguchi & Mark Ballas

Credit: By Rebecca Little, For RedEye REBECCA LITTLE IS A REDEYE SPECIAL CONTRIBUTOR.

Illustration

Caption: Photo (color): SHANNON ELIZABETH & DEREK HOUGH [ ABC PHOTO ]Photo (color): MARIO & KARINA SMIRNOFFPhoto (color): JONATHAN ROBERTS & MONICA SELESPhoto (color): SHANNON ELIZABETH & DEREK HOUGHPhoto (color): PENN JILLETTE & KYM JOHNSONPhoto (color): Adam CarollaPhoto (color): Cristian De La FuentePhoto (color): Steve GuttenbergPhoto (color): Marlee MatlinPhoto (color): Priscilla PresleyPhoto (color): Jason TaylorPhoto (color): Marissa Jaret WinokurPhoto (color): Kristi Yamaguchi

Subject: Couples; Dance

Publication title: Chicago Tribune; Chicago, Ill.

Pages: 42

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 17, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Chicago, Ill.

Country of publication: United States, Chicago, Ill.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 10856706

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 420643266

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/420643266?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by the Chicago Tribune)

Last updated: 2017-11-14

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 120 of 313

Luna Negra concert shatters stereotypes

Author: Mauro, Lucia

Publication info: Chicago Tribune ; Chicago, Ill. [Chicago, Ill]17 Mar 2008: 4.

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In "Tlatelolco Revisited," Mexican choreographer Joel Valentin-Martinez captured in propulsive, synchronistic patterns the spirit of the 1968 student massacre in Mexico City's Tlatelolco Plaza.

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Luna Negra Dance Theater's concert at the Harris Theater Saturday proved to be a defining moment for the Chicago company.

Titled "Nuevo Folk," it solidified the group's mission of contemporizing Latino rhythms, ideologies and histories. With a program that stretched from the ancient Aztecs to Brazil's Carnival, Luna Negra shattered stereotypes while crafting true postmodern reimaginings of these cultures.

Three world premieres burrowed deep into the roots of Mexican and Cuban history, with the late Venezuelan choreographer Vicente Nebrada's bravura deconstruction of Brazilian revelry, "Batucada Fantastica," a showstopping finale. Yet each work was a streamlined, abstract representation of Latino identity that incorporated unexpected uses of Mexican rock, Afro-Cuban jazz and even Mozart.

In "Tlatelolco Revisited," Mexican choreographer Joel Valentin-Martinez captured in propulsive, synchronistic patterns the spirit of the 1968 student massacre in Mexico City's Tlatelolco Plaza. Prior to the Mexico City Olympic Games, middle-class students gathered for a peaceful rally against government corruption, but the army moved in and gunned them down.

Far from a literal re-creation of the tragedy, Valentin-Martinez took the strong company of dancers on a journey through innocence, humiliation, protest and remembrance. Heavily fortified movement, set to a bulletlike score by Cafe Tacuba, pushed the dancers into formations that ranged from militaristic to joyful. Within these groupings, the audience got a fleeting glimpse of an individual. Humanity gently erupted from the systematic carnage.

Mexican-born choreographer Edgar Zendejas reached further back in time to the harsh environs of the ancient Aztecs for "Plight." But this was no warrior dance featuring painted and pierced men in indigenous headdresses. The work was for three men and three women, all clad in Diana Ruettiger's subtle costumes dabbed with geometric brush strokes. The dancers' bodies spoke in gracefully contorted sign language as they navigated the unpredictability of their natural environment.

Artistic director Eduardo Vilaro's elegant, balletic "Ton Ton" duet for the seamless Kimberly Bleich and Ricardo J. Garcia wove Cuban rhythms into a stately dance.

----------

ctc-tempo@tribune.com

Credit: By Lucia Mauro, Special to the Tribune

Illustration

Caption: Photo: Luna Negra dancers perform the balletic "Ton Ton."

Subject: Olympic games; Dancers & choreographers; Artistic directors

Publication title: Chicago Tribune; Chicago, Ill.

Pages: 4

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 17, 2008

Section: Tempo

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Chicago, Ill.

Country of publication: United States, Chicago, Ill.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 10856706

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 420682501

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/420682501?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by the Chicago Tribune)

Last updated: 2017-11-14

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 121 of 313

GETTING A TASTE OF TEACHING: ACADEMY PUTS HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS ON THE FRONT LINES

Author: Gvozdas, Susan

Publication info: The Sun ; Baltimore, Md. [Baltimore, Md]19 Mar 2008: U.12.

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Abstract: None available.

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Kevin Raska stomped and shook his way through a South African dance with a group of second-graders, then did a Brazilian samba.

While the children at Linthicum Elementary School eagerly learned the dances, Kevin was also absorbing his own lesson on becoming a teacher some day.

One of the participants in North County High School's Teachers Academy, he spent yesterday morning helping the elementary school celebrate its multicultural day and getting a taste of what it would be like to get a group of excited youngsters to focus and work.

"The kids are great," Raska said. "[The experience] just makes you want to be a part of it."

North County High is one of six Anne Arundel County high schools that offer a teaching academy, school officials' self-sufficient approach to addressing a chronic shortage of teachers: They're trying to grow their own.

The Teachers Academy program is designed to whet students' appetites by giving them a primer on what it takes to become a teacher. County officials hope classes such as these will nurture a crop of local teachers to help deal with a decades-long teacher shortage.

Every year, state colleges and universities churn out 2,100 new teachers. Maryland school systems, however, hire 7,000 teachers each year. To help recruit teachers from out-of-state, the Maryland Association of School Personnel Administrators is hosting its first statewide job fair April 5 at the Sheraton Baltimore City Center Hotel. Maryland also recruits teachers from the Philippines for math and science teaching positions, which are especially difficult to fill.

North County started its Teachers Academy in 2004; Arundel, Glen Burnie, Meade, Northeast and Old Mill high schools have their own programs.

Students in North County High's Intro to Teaching class, a prerequisite to an internship the following year, had their own ideas about what might assuage the teacher shortage. Higher pay and more awareness of teaching as a profession might help, said Raska, who said his trip to Linthicum Elementary solidified his desire to go into teaching.

The same was true of sophomores Hannah Davidson and Stacey Dial, who read the Linthicum children a story called "Postcards From Peru," then helped them make paper rabbits called animalitos.

"It seems like a fun career to get into," said Stacey, who wants to teach third-graders in Maryland one day. "They're not too young, and they're not too old," she said.

In the intro class, the group of 15 sophomores and juniors are learning about the roles and responsibilities of being a teacher, the type of education teachers need, how children learn and how to make lesson plans. They have to do presentations on hot topics in teaching, such as class size, school safety, graduation rates and teacher pay. They also take field trips such as the one to Linthicum Elementary School. For the internship, students must spend at least one semester visiting an elementary or middle school for one to two hours every day.

"They get to see what it is like to be in charge," said Amy Hess, who teaches the intro class. "It's a little bit of reality."

A family and consumer science teacher, Hess, 28, is teaching this class for the first time this year. She moved to Maryland because there were more jobs available than in her home state of Pennsylvania, one of the few with a teacher surplus.

Hess said that the earlier students decide on the teaching profession, the better off they are in college when they start picking courses.

The internship experience looks good on students' resumes, said Megan Parker, a junior at North County who is taking the intro class. She and her class partner, Miranda Odachowski, helped second-graders make Carnival masks for their lesson on Brazil. Miranda said the field trip instilled her with confidence.

"It gives you a sense of accomplishment that you can teach kids and be a positive example for them," said Miranda, a junior.

While the North County students seemed committed to becoming teachers, not everyone is determined to come home to Maryland to teach. Hannah said that depends on where her studies - and the road of life - take her.

"Wherever I feel I want to be ... " Hannah said. "The door is open."

Credit: Special to The Sun

Illustration

Photo(s); Caption: Byron Nichols, a 10th-grader at North County High School, gets a taste of teaching with first-graders at Lin thicum Elementary School, including Matthew Davidson, seated on the right. Kevin Raska (right), an 11th-grader at North County, plays kickball with second-graders at Linthi cum Elementary. "The kids are great," Raska said. Amy Hess (left), who taught the introductory class on teaching, snaps pictures of Hannah Davidson (right), a North County high school student, working with an elementary school youngster. 11th-graders Miranda Odachowski (left), and Megan Parker with second-grader Malia Cygan. The Teachers Academy provides a primer on what it takes to become a teacher. On the cover: Christina Gardner, North Coun ty 11th-grader, works with first-grader Anna Aviles.

Subject: Teachers; Elementary schools; Students; Secondary schools; Job fairs; Field trips

Publication title: The Sun; Baltimore, Md.

First page: U.12

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 19, 2008

Section: LOCAL

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Baltimore, Md.

Country of publication: United States, Baltimore, Md.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 19308965

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 406193375

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/406193375?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 @ The Baltimore Sun Company)

Last updated: 2017-11-10

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 122 of 313

Scene calendar

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Gainesville Sun ; Gainesville, Fla. [Gainesville, Fla]20 Mar 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY: "Inside Africa:" Art exhibit reveals the significance of Africa and its people, through Sept. 7; through 2008: "Butterflies and Moths in Contemporary Zuni Art," discover how butterflies have influenced Zuni Indian art; through March 30: "Florida's Vanishing Habitats and Wildlife," photography exhibit by Ken Sourbeer highlights Florida's ecosystems; through Jan. 31: "Charles R. Knight: Studies of Lost Worlds," seven study paintings and a self-portrait, Florida Museum of Natural History. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (846-2000)

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

AFRICA AKONTING/BANJO COLLABORATIVE: Artists, musicians, and scholars trace the history of the banjo, 1-6 p.m. today, UF campus, Digital Worlds Institute. $60 general; $50 UF students; Musicians from West Africa perform, 7 p.m. today, Thomas Center, 302 NE Sixth Ave. $15 general; $10 UF students. (265-0768)

VERDI'S REQUIEM: Gainesville Civic Chorus and Philharmonic Orchestra perform, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Phillips Center. Tickets: $25-$35. (392-ARTS)

"THE EROICA EFFECT:" Andrew Manze conducts the Helsingborg Symphony Orchestra, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Phillips Center. Tickets: $20-$40. (392-ARTS)

JACARE BRAZIL: "An Intimate Evening of Strings and Voices," sounds of Brazilian heritage, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, UF campus, Baughman Center. Free. (392-0207 or arts.ufl.edu/cwa/)

UNIVERSITY ORCHESTRA CONCERT: 7:30 p.m. today, UF Campus, University Auditorium. Tickets: $8. (392-2787)

"REQUIEM" BY JOHN RUTTER: The Grace Chancel Choir and the Lake City Community College Choir perform, 7 p.m. Friday, Grace Presbyterian Church, 3146 NW 13th St. Free. (376-5654)

NEW MUSIC ENSEMBLE: 7:30 p.m. Monday, UF Campus, University Auditorium. Free. (392-2787)

STELLAR STUDENT RECITAL: Students of Eastside High School perform, 7:30 p.m. Monday, The Thomas Center, 302 NE Sixth Ave. (334-5064)

ALACHUA COUNTY HONOR BAND: 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Phillips Center. (392-ARTS)

FARM TO FAMILY FULL MOON CONCERT: Live music with The Barry Side Band, Quartermoon, Daryl Brewer and more, begins 2 p.m. Saturday, Farm to Family, Alachua. Tickets: $10 general; free for children. (farmtofamilymusic.com)"SUDDENLY LAST SUMMER:" A mysterious and powerful drama by the acclaimed playwright Tennessee Williams, 8 p.m. Friday; 5 and 8:30 p.m. Saturday; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Hippodrome State Theatre. Tickets: $25-$30 general; $20 seniors; $10 students. (373-5968)

"TWELFTH NIGHT:" Shakespearean comedy set in Italy, UF campus, Nadine McGuire Theatre and Dance Pavilion Black Box Theatre, 7:30 p.m. today, Friday and Sunday; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday. Tickets: $13 general; $9 students. (392-1653)

"HELLO DOLLY:" Musical based on the adventures of matchmaker Dolly Levi, 8 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays; 2 p.m. Sundays, through April 13, Vam York Theater, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. Tickets: $15. (376-4949)

"HAIR:" Musical performance by Eastside High School students, 7 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays through April 5, Eastside High School, 1201 SE 43rd St. Tickets: $10 general. (955-6704)

"THE ODD COUPLE:" A play about an odd friendship, 8 p.m. Thursdays-Fridays; 2 p.m. Sundays, through March 29, Eden Dinner Playhouse, 5408 SW 13th St. Tickets: $10. (376-4008)

"ROSENCRANTZ AND GUILDENSTERN ARE DEAD:" By Tom Stoppard, 8 p.m. today through Saturday, Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 619 S. Main St.

"AN EVENING OF HAROLD PINTER:" Directed by Sydney Homan, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Acrosstown Repretory Theatre, 619 S. Main St."OF AIR AND WATER:" Poetry, music and dance with Ani Collier, Lola Haskins and Mark Tanner, 7:30 p.m. Monday, Hippodrome State Theatre Mainstage. Tickets: $10 general; $5 students. (375-HIPP)BOB SAGET: Stand-up comedian performs, 8 p.m. Wednesday, O'Connell Center. Free. Mature audiences only. Doors open, 7 p.m. (accentspeakers.com)

COMICS AND GRAPHIC NOVELS CONFERENCE: "ImageSexT: Intersections of Sex, Gender and Sexuality," with speakers comics creator Phoebe Gloeckner and animator Sally Cruickshank, 9 a.m.-9:30 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Saturday, UF campus, Emerson Hall. Free. (rkrueger@english.ufl.edu)

PURIM CARNIVAL: Games, booths, prizes, Israeli dancing and horse rides, 11 a.m. Sunday, Temple Shir Shalom, 3855 NW Eighth Ave. Free. (371-6399)

SIROTA GORDON: Lecture by speaker who helped write Japan's new constitution, 6 p.m. Tuesday, UF campus, Turlington Hall, Room L07. (273-2727)

WOMEN OF DISTINCTION LUNCHEON: Celebrates the achievements of local women, 11:30 a.m. today, UF Hilton, 1714 SW 34th St. Tickets: $30. (395-5181)

SLAVIC FILM FESTIVAL: Film screenings document people in extreme conditions, 6:15 p.m. today, UF campus, Florida Gym. Free. (www.gss.ufl.edu/events/slavicfilm.html)

TEENS OF COMEDY: Showcase of teen comedians hosted by comedian Lil' JJ, 7 p.m. Saturday, Times Union Center, Jacksonville, 300 W. Water St. Tickets: $26.75-$36.75. (904-630-3900)

CIVIC MEDIA CENTER FILM: "Young Jewish and Queer," experiences of young Jewish people, 8 p.m. Monday, 1021 W. University Ave. (373-0010)

VISITING ARTIST LECTURE: By Steve Kurtz and Steve Barnes of Critical Art Ensemble, 5 p.m. Friday, Harn Museum of Art. (392-9826)

FULL MOON CANOE TOUR: Guided tour of the Suwannee River, 8 p.m. Saturday, Manatee Springs State Park, Chiefland, 11650 NW 115th St. (493-6072)

PEDALING FOR THE PLANET: Presentation by a family who bicylced 9,600 miles, 7 p.m. Friday, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 4225 NW 34th St. (466-3735)

BIKE ON THE GAINESVILLE-HAWTHORNE TRAIL: 9 a.m. Saturday, 3300 SE 15th St. $5. (466-4100)

EXHIBITION SPOTLIGHT TOUR: "Paradigms and the Unexpected," 2 p.m. Saturday, Harn Museum of Art. (392-9826)

KIKA SILVA PLA PLANETARIUM: Southern Nights, 7 p.m. Fridays; Children's matinee, 3 p.m. Saturdays; Black Holes, 5 p.m. Saturdays; Night Spirits, 7 p.m. Saturdays. Tickets: $4 general; $3 children and seniors at the door, SFCC, 3000 NW 83rd St. (395-5381 or sfcc.edu/planetarium)

COSMIC CONCERTS: "Sounds of the Underground," cosmic video featuring techno, dance, club and rave styles on the dome of the Kika Silva Pla Planetarium, 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 3000 NW 83rd St. Tickets: $10. (sfcc.edu/planetarium)ROPIN' IN THE SWAMP: Team roping, egg hunt, pictures with animals, food and more, 9 a.m. Saturday, UF Horse Teaching Unit, 1934 SW 63rd Ave. (www.animal.ufl.edu/ans4234)

BARTLEY TEMPLE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH: Easter services: 6 and 7 p.m. Friday; 5 p.m. Saturday; 6, 9 and 11 a.m. Sunday. Egg hunt following Sunday services, 1936 NE Eighth Ave. (377-5022)

BETHLEHEM PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: Easter sunrise services presented by the Archer Ministry Alliance, 7 a.m. Sunday, Laurel Hill Cemetery, Archer. (495-0966)

CELEBRATION UNITED METHODIST CHURCH: Petting zoo, hayrides and more, 10 a.m. Saturday, 95001 SW Archer Road. (367-8005)

FOREST GROVE BAPTIST CHURCH: Easter sunrise services, 7 a.m. Sunday, 22575 NW 94th Ave., Alachua. (376-462-3921)

GETHSEMANE LUTHERAN CHURCH: Easter Sunday: Services, 8 and 11 a.m.; egg hunt, 10 a.m.; pancake breakfast, 9-10:45 a.m., 4011 NW 34th St. $3 for breakfast. (378-2915 or 373-7072)

HARMONY HOLISTIC HEALING CENTER: Egg hunt, games and face painting for ages 12 and younger, 11 a.m. Saturday, 10691 NE 109th St., Archer. (352-486-6229)

TRINITY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH: "The Weeping Tree Musical," Easter story performed by the choir and chamber ensemble, 7 p.m. Friday; egg hunt, hay-ride and more, 10:30 a.m. Saturday, 4000 NW 53rd Ave. (376-6615)

WESLEY UNITED METHODIST CHURCH: Easter festival with music, crafts, booths, egg-hunt and "The Passion of the Christ" showing for adults, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Saturday, 826 NW 23rd Ave. (372-2845)

WILLISTON CHURCH OF GOD: Musical program "An Easter Celebration" with testimonies, scripture and songs, 7 p.m. Saturday; 10:30 a.m. Sunday, 225 SE Fourth St. (528-5982)BARNES & NOBLE: Pierce Kelley, author of "Bocas del Toro," signs books, 2 p.m. Saturday, 3910 Archer Road. (372-3535)

GOERINGS BOOK STORE: Meet authors Randy Romano and Kate Sweeney, 8 p.m. today, 1717 NW First Ave. (377-3703)

HIGH SPRINGS BRANCH LIBRARY: Mystery reading group meets, 6:30 p.m. today, 135 NW First Ave. (386-454-2515)

WRITERS' ROUNDTABLE: 6:30-9 p.m. Mondays, Books-A-Million, 6111 W. Newberry Road. (371-8420)

GAINESVILLE POETS AND WRITERS: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Books-A-Million, 2601 NW 13th St. (376-6623)

JONESVILLE WRITERS' GROUP: 6:30-8:30 p.m. second and fourth Thursdays, St. Joseph's Episcopal Church, Newberry Road, Jonesville. (fl_muse@bellsouth.net)"WILLIE WONKA:" Children ages 7-19 audition by appointment, Star Center, 607 E. University Avenue. (336-5309)

"WHEN HEAVEN SAYS YES:" Performers, stage hands and lighting and stage technicians needed for a reality play by appointment only, through March. (371-2700)

ALACHUA SPRING FESTIVAL: Calling vendors for event held April 20 in Alachua. (386-462-9552)NATIONAL ALLIANCE ON MENTAL ILLNESS WALK: Benefit walk, 8 a.m. Saturday, Westside Park, 1001 NW 34th St. (334-2186)

CAR SHOW: Benefit hosted by the UF American Society of Mechanical Engineers supports the American Cancer Society, 9 a.m. Saturday, UF campus, Commuter Lot, Gale Lemerand. (www.mae.ufl.edu/asme)

MELROSE PICNIC IN THE PARK: Benefit dinner catered by Blue Water Bay, 3-6 p.m. Saturday, Heritage Park, 203 State Road 26. Tickets: $20. (475-3232)

AMERICAN LEGION POST 230 BLOOD DRIVE: Benefits Life South, 11 a.m. Friday, Hitchcock's, Highway 301 North. (481-3266)

ST. PATTY'S DAY POKER RUN: Community fundraiser, 10 a.m. Saturday, Silvermoon Tavern, Dunnellon, 3025 US Hwy 41. Tickets: $10. (352-207-0429)ARTISANS' GUILD GALLERY: "Wood-Fabulous and Functional," exhibit of painted wood by Carmen Rose Ward and Joa March; wood boxes by Bill Boyett, through March, Millhopper Square, 4201 NW 16th Blvd. Hours: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; noon-5 p.m. Sundays. (378-1383)

ART GALLERY AT BOOKS, INC.: "Seeing is Believing," paintings by Paul Newman, through March, 505 NW 13th St. Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. (374-4241)

BELLAMY ROAD ART GALLERY: Collection of more than 40 artists from "Melrose, Paint the Town Green," 5910 Hampton St., Melrose. Gallery hours: noon-7 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays; and noon-5 p.m. Sundays. Reception, 6-10 p.m. Saturday. (475-3435)

CEDAR KEY ARTS CENTER: Through March: Hyper-realism exhibit, works by artist Sam Kates; ceramic works by Amy and Henry Gernhardt; through Friday: Beads for Life Exhibit and Sale, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, 457 Second St. (543-5801)

THE CEDAR KEYHOLE GALLERY: Artist Russel Raethka displays works of watercolors through March, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, Second Street, Cedar Key. (543-5801)

COFRIN GALLERY: Works by UF Printmaking professor Bob Mueller and brother, Chicago artist Stephen Mueller, through Friday, 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. weekdays, Oak Hall School, 8009 SW 14th Ave. (332-3609)

ELEANOR BLAIR STUDIO: Florida landscape paintings by Eleanor Blair, 4-7 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, 113 S. Main St. (378-6006)

FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY: "Inside Africa:" Art exhibit reveals the significance of Africa and its people, through Sept. 7; through 2008: "Butterflies and Moths in Contemporary Zuni Art," discover how butterflies have influenced Zuni Indian art; through March 30: "Florida's Vanishing Habitats and Wildlife," photography exhibit by Ken Sourbeer highlights Florida's ecosystems; through Jan. 31: "Charles R. Knight: Studies of Lost Worlds," seven study paintings and a self-portrait, Florida Museum of Natural History. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (846-2000)

FOCUS GALLERY: MFA Thesis Candidate 1 Exhibit, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. weekdays, through April 4, UF campus, Fine Arts Building C, 400 SW 13th St. (392-0201, ext. 229)

GALLERY UNDER THE OAKS: 207 NE Cholokka Blvd., Micanopy. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays. (466-9229)

GRINTER GALLERY: "Visions of Bahia, Brazil in the Work of Jorge Amado and His Illustrators," 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays through July, UF campus, Grinter Hall, 400 SW 13th St. (392-0201, ext. 229)

HARN MUSEUM OF ART: Through May 18: "Paradigms and the Unexpected: Modern and Contemporary Art from the Shey Collection;" through July 20: "Vision/Revision: Contemporary Art from the Harn Collection," SW 34th Street and Hull Road. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays; 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (392-9826)

HAROLD'S FRAMES AND GALLERY: Works by John Moran, Florida nature photographer featuring new work "What Lurks Beneath," through March 28, 101 SE Second Place, 1-5:30 p.m. Mondays; 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Wednesdays; 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays; 11 a.m. Saturdays. (375-0260)

HAWTHORNE HISTORICAL MUSEUM: 7225 SE 221st St. (954-551-7692)

HECTOR FRAMING AND GALLERY: Florida landscape works by PJ Lamb and abstract acrylic works by Andrew Masseo through March 28, 702 W. University Ave. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. weekdays; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays. (271-4243 or hectorframingallery.com)

JIM WILSON'S STUDIO: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays, 1014 NW Fourth St. (378-5528)

MATHESON MUSEUM: Framed pieces commemorating UF's football and basketball championships, 513 E. University Ave. (378-2280)

MCINTYRE STAINED GLASS STUDIO AND ART GALLERY: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays, 2441 NW 43rd St., Suite 11A. (372-2752)

MELROSE BAY ART GALLERY: Collection of more than 40 artists from "Melrose, Paint the Town Green," 3-7 p.m. Fridays; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays; 1-5 p.m. Sundays, 103 State Road 26 at Centre Street. Reception, 6-10 p.m. Saturday. (475-3866)

SANTA FE GALLERY: Peter Carolin, Spring Arts poster artist, through April 4, SFCC, 3000 NW 83rd St., Building M, Room 147. (395-5464)

SWEETWATER PRINT CO-OP GALLERY: "Paperview," exhibit of cast paper sculptures and monoprints by Dan Rountree; "Peace Party," artists Vasanto and Hana Handel's works celebrate peace, through Wednesday, 117 S. Main St. (375-0790)

THOMAS CENTER GALLERIES: "Jesse Aaron: A Gainesville Folk Legend," works by wood carver Jesse Aaron through March 30, Main Gallery, 302 NE Sixth Ave. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays; 1-4 p.m. weekends. (393-8532)

UNIVERSITY GALLERY: MFA Thesis Candidates 1 Exhibit, through April 4, Fine Arts Building B, 400 SW 13th St. (392-0201)VAM YORK PLAYHOUSE: Acrylic paintings by Miriam Novack during the showing of "Hello Dolly," through April 13, Vam York Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Ave. (376-4949)

SECONDARY SCHOOL ART: Works by Alachua County art students, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays; 8 a.m.-4 p.m. weekends through Sunday, The Thomas Center Mezzanine Gallery, 302 NE Sixth Ave. (334-5067)

ART WALK: Self-guided tour featuring the works of local artists begins at the Sun Center, 7-10 p.m. last Fridays of month, Wild Iris Books, 802 W. University Ave. (375-7477)

"ART AT TRINITY:" Gainesville Fine Arts Association members display works through Tuesday, Trinity United Methodist Church, 4200 NW 53rd Ave. (376-6615)

WORKS BY JIM CARPENTER: Floral watercolors on display through April 21, Falcon Financial Management, Inc., 2631-B NW 41st St. (375-7977)

GLOBAL CULTURE PHOTO CON-

TEST WINNERS: Works of UF students, faculty, staff and alumni through March, Headquarters Library. (334-3934)CASTING CROWNS: 6 p.m. Saturday, Veterans Memorial Arena, Jacksonville. Tickets: $24-$50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

JACKSON BROWNE: 8 p.m. Saturday, Florida Theatre, Jacksonville. Tickets: $36.50-$56.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

THE MARS VOLTA: 8 p.m. April 1, House of Blues, Orlando. Tickets: $35 advance, $37.50 at the door at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

JOAN BAEZ: 8 p.m. April 7, Florida Theatre, Jacksonville. Tickets: $33-$47.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

AL JARREAU: 8 p.m. April 10, Hard Rock Live, Orlando. Tickets: $45-$64 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

LIFEHOUSE: 8 p.m. April 16, Hard Rock Live Orlando. Tickets: $25-$32.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

AVRIL LAVIGNE: 7 p.m. April 19, Ford Amphitheatre, Tampa. Tickets: $9-$45 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

MARTINA MCBRIDE: 7:30 p.m. April 19, Veterans Memorial Arena, Jacksonville. Tickets: $48.75-$58.75 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

PANIC AT THE DISCO: 7:30 p.m. April 24, House of Blues, Orlando. Tickets: $33.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

SHERYL CROW: 8 p.m. April 27, Moran Theater, Times Union Center of the performing Arts, Jacksonville. Tickets: $37.50-$67.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

SANTANA: 8 p.m. April 29, New UCF Arena, Orlando. Tickets: $40.50-$115.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

KANYE WEST: 7 p.m. May 5, Ford Amphitheatre, Tampa. Tickets: $40-$125 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

TIM McGRAW: 8 p.m. May 11, Amway Arena, Orlando. Tickets: $26-$56 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

THE POLICE: 7:30 p.m. May 16, Amway Arena, Orlando. Tickets: $50-$225 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

MARIO CANTONE: 8 p.m. June 7, Hard Rock Live, Orlando. Tickets: $35-$40 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

TOM PETTY AND THE HEARTBREAKERS: 7:30 p.m. July 16, St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa. Tickets: $55-$99.75 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)"ONE NIGHT FOR ONE HOUSE:" Signature event for Alachua Habitat for Humanity with food, dancing, music and auctions, 7-11 p.m. March 28, Alachua Habitat for Humanity, 2317 SW 13th St. $75. (378-4663)

DARRYL REUBEN HALL'S "FRAT HOUSE:" The Stage Aurora Theatrical Company performs a comedy about the bond between brothers, 8 p.m. March 28, UF campus, University Auditorium. Tickets: $13.50-$25. (392-ARTS)

BALLET SPECTACULAR: Classical ballet and contemporary works by Dance Alive National Ballet, 7:30 p.m. March 28, Phillips Center. Tickets: $13-$28 adults; $10 children. (392-ARTS)

JIGU! THUNDER DRUMS OF CHINA: Drummers, percussionists and musicians, 7:30 p.m. March 29, Phillips Center. Tickets: $18-$33. (392-ARTS)

HAMPTON MUSIC FEST: Food, crafts, vendors, live entertainment by Willie and the Po' Boys, Southern Connection, Steel Country, Local Traffic, Flashback and more, 10 a.m.-7 p.m. March 29; 1-6 p.m. March 30, Hampton City Park. Free. (745-2166)

DIAVOLO: Dancers, acrobats and actors create a cinematic experience, 7:30 p.m. April 3, Phillips Center. Tickets:$20-$30. (392-ARTS)

POPS ON THE PLAZA!: Gainesville Chamber Orchestra performs, 6:30 p.m. April 5, Downtown Plaza. Free. (336-5448)

"CHICAGO:" Broadway musical of sin and celebrity, 7:30 p.m. April 11-12, Phillips Center. Tickets: $40-$60. (392-ARTS)

"THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS:" Comedy about a family whose pursuit of happiness is counter-productive, 8 p.m.Tuesdays-Fridays; 5 and 8:30 p.m. Saturdays; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sundays, April 18-May 11, Hippodrome State Theatre, 25 SE Second Place. Tickets: $25-$35. (375-HIPP)

CURE BY DESIGN FASHION SHOW: American Cancer Society benefit broadway-themed event with fashion show featuring cancer survivors, lunch reception and silent auction, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. April 18, UF Hilton and Conference Center. (curebydesigngainesville.com)

ELTON JOHN: RESCHEDULED from March 16: 8 p.m. April 24, O'Connell Center, UF campus. Tickets: $48-$88 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

Company: Ticketmaster Corp

Publication title: Gainesville Sun; Gainesville, Fla.

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 20, 2008

Section: NEWS

Publisher: Halifax Media Group

Place of publication: Gainesville, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Gainesville, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 01634925

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 390302320

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/390302320?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 New York Times Company)

Last updated: 2012-10-12

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 123 of 313

Shoe Carnival Reports Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2007 Results

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Business Wire ; New York [New York]20 Mar 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

The challenging economic environment continued to directly affect our targeted moderate income consumer, and consequently, had a negative impact on both traffic and sales.

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Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Mark L. Lemond, 812-867-4037

President and Chief Executive Officer

or

W. Kerry Jackson, 812-867-4037

Executive Vice President,

Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

Shoe Carnival, Inc. (NASDAQ: SCVL) a leading retailer of value-priced footwear and accessories, today announced sales and earnings for the fourth quarter and fiscal year ended February 2, 2008. The fourth quarter of fiscal 2007 included 13 weeks compared to 14 weeks in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006 and the full fiscal year of 2007 included 52 weeks compared with 53 weeks in the full fiscal year of 2006.

Fourth Quarter Results

Net earnings for the thirteen-week fourth quarter were $1.1 million compared to net earnings of $5.1 million in the fourteen-week fourth quarter ended February 3, 2007. Diluted earnings per share were $0.09 per share compared to $0.37 per share last year. The extra week included in the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006, increased diluted earnings per share in that quarter by approximately $0.05.

Sales for the thirteen-week period ended February 2, 2008, were $164.3 million compared to sales of $177.2 million for the fourteen-week period ended February 3, 2007. Sales of approximately $11.5 million were recorded in the extra week of the fourth quarter of fiscal 2006. Comparable store sales for the thirteen-week period ended February 2, 2008, decreased 5.7 percent compared with the thirteen-week period ended February 3, 2007.

The gross profit margin for the fourth quarter of 2007 was 27.5 percent compared to 28.1 percent for the fourth quarter of 2006. As a percentage of sales, the merchandise margin remained unchanged from last year's fourth quarter, while buying, distribution and occupancy costs increased 0.6 percent. The increase in buying, distribution and occupancy costs, as a percentage of sales, was due primarily to the deleveraging effect of lower sales.

Selling, general and administrative expenses for the fourth quarter were $43.6 million, or 26.5 percent of sales, compared to $41.8 million, or 23.6 percent of sales, in the fourth quarter of 2006. The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses was due to operating an additional 20 stores during the quarter compared to same period last year and recording a non-cash impairment charge to assets for certain stores management has committed to close.

Operating income for the fourth quarter was $1.6 million compared to $7.9 million in the fourth quarter of 2006. Operating margin for the fourth quarter was 1.0 percent compared to 4.5 percent in the same period last year.

Fiscal 2007 Results

Net sales were $658.7 million for the fiscal year compared to net sales of $681.7 million last year. Comparable store sales for the 52-week period ended February 2, 2008, decreased 5.2 percent compared with the 52-week period ended February 3, 2007.

Net earnings for fiscal 2007 were $12.8 million, or $0.97 per diluted share, compared to net earnings of $23.8 million, or $1.73 per diluted share, last year.

Commenting on the results, Mark Lemond, chief executive officer and president said, "Fiscal 2007 proved to be a difficult period for us and footwear retailers in general. The challenging economic environment continued to directly affect our targeted moderate income consumer, and consequently, had a negative impact on both traffic and sales."

"Our merchandising and store operations teams did a commendable job of maintaining our merchandise margins in the fourth quarter and for the full fiscal year. Importantly, we ended fiscal 2007 with inventories on a per store basis almost 5 percent lower than last year."

"We anticipate the retail environment will again be challenging in fiscal 2008. However, we believe our strong brand name in our core markets along with a cost efficient operating model provides us with opportunities for growth in market share and improved profitability. For fiscal 2008, our primary focus will be on enhancing store performance metrics and continuing our efforts to provide long-term earnings growth to our shareholders."

Store Growth

During fiscal 2007, 25 new stores were opened and five were closed to end the year at 291 stores. One store was opened in the fourth quarter and three were closed. Our retail selling space increased 176,000 square feet during fiscal 2007 bringing our total retail selling space to 3.2 million square feet.

Store openings and closings by quarter and for the year are as follows:

The one store that opened during the fourth quarter included a location in:

Conference Call

Today, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern time, the Company will host a conference call to discuss the fourth quarter results. The public can listen to the live webcast of the call by visiting Shoe Carnival's Investor Relations page at www.shoecarnival.com. While the question-and-answer session will be available to all listeners, questions from the audience will be limited to institutional analysts and investors. A replay of the webcast will be available on our website beginning approximately two hours after the conclusion of the conference call and will be archived for one year.

Record Date and Date of Annual Shareholder Meeting

The Company also announced that June 12, 2008 has been set as the date for the Annual Meeting of Shareholders and April 25, 2008 was set as the shareholder record date.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This release contains forward-looking statements, within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause our actual results, performance, achievements or industry results to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to: general economic conditions in the areas of the United States in which our stores are located; changes in the overall retail environment and more specifically in the apparel and footwear retail sectors; our ability to generate increased sales at our stores; the potential impact of national and international security concerns on the retail environment; changes in our relationships with key suppliers; the impact of competition and pricing; changes in weather patterns, consumer buying trends and our ability to identify and respond to emerging fashion trends; the impact of disruptions in our distribution or information technology operations; the effectiveness of our inventory management; the impact of hurricanes or other natural disasters on our stores, as well as on consumer confidence and purchasing in general; risks associated with the seasonality of the retail industry; our ability to successfully execute our growth strategy, including the availability of desirable store locations at acceptable lease terms, our ability to open new stores in a timely and profitable manner and the availability of sufficient funds to implement our growth plans; higher than anticipated costs associated with the closing of underperforming stores; the inability of manufacturers to deliver products in a timely manner; changes in the political and economic environments in the People's Republic of China, Brazil, Spain and East Asia, the primary manufacturers of footwear; and the continued favorable trade relations between the United States and China and the other countries which are the major manufacturers of footwear. See ITEM 1A. RISK FACTORS of our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended February 3, 2007.

In addition, these forward-looking statements necessarily depend upon assumptions, estimates and dates that may be incorrect or imprecise and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors. Accordingly, any forward-looking statements included in this press release do not purport to be predictions of future events or circumstances and may not be realized. Forward-looking statements can be identified by, among other things, the use of forward-looking terms such as "believes," "expects," "may," "will," "should," "seeks," "pro forma," "anticipates," "intends" or the negative of any of these terms, or comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategy or intentions. Given these uncertainties, we caution investors not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. We disclaim any obligation to update any of these factors or to publicly announce any revisions to the forward-looking statements contained in this press release to reflect future events or developments.

Shoe Carnival is a chain of 293 footwear stores located in the Midwest, South and Southeast. Combining value pricing with an entertaining store format, Shoe Carnival is a leading retailer of name brand and private label footwear for the entire family. Headquartered in Evansville, IN, Shoe Carnival trades on The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC under the symbol SCVL. Shoe Carnival's press releases and annual report are available on the Company's website at www.shoecarnival.com.

TABLE

New Stores__ Stores Closed

1st Quarter 2007

7

0

2nd Quarter 2007

6

0

3rd Quarter 2007

11

2

4th Quarter 2007

1

3

Fiscal 2007

25

5

TABLE

City______ Market/Total Stores in Market

McHenry, IL Chicago/22

TABLE

Financial Tables Follow

TABLE

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(In thousands, except per share)

Thirteen Weeks Ended February 2, 2008

Fourteen Weeks Ended February 3, 2007

Fifty-two Weeks Ended February 2, 2008

Fifty-three Weeks Ended February 3, 2007

Net sales

$164,341

$177,221

$658,680

$681,662

Cost of sales (including buying, distribution and occupancy costs)

119,091

127,475

472,831

482,888

Gross profit

45,250

49,746

185,849

198,774

Selling, general and administrative expenses

43,647

41,814

166,717

161,144

Operating income

1,603

7,932

19,132

37,630

Interest income

(79

)

(372

)

(690

)

(1,235

)

Interest expense

85

45

264

152

Income before income taxes

1,597

8,259

19,558

38,713

Income tax expense

470

3,133

6,751

14,949

Net income

$1,127

$5,126

$12,807

$23,764

Net income per share:

Basic

$0.09

$0.38

$0.99

$1.78

Diluted

$0.09

$0.37

$0.97

$1.73

Average shares outstanding:

Basic

12,492

13,469

12,922

13,373

Diluted

12,577

13,833

13,158

13,744

TABLE

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands)

______________________________ February 2, 2008 February 3, 2007

Assets

Current Assets:

Cash and cash equivalents___

$ 9,177_______

$ 34,839

Accounts receivable_________

_ 411_________

_ 948

Merchandise inventories_____

_ 200,781_____

_ 196,662

Deferred income tax benefit_

_ 2,340_______

_ 2,088

Other_______________________

_ 7,221_______

_ 2,605

Total Current Assets________

_ 219,930_____

_ 237,142

Property and equipment - net

_ 71,686______

_ 74,020

Total Assets________________

$ 291,616_____

$ 311,162

Liabilities and

Shareholders' Equity

Current Liabilities:

Accounts payable____________

$ 67,786______

$ 70,352

Accrued and other liabilities_ _ 10,689________ _ 14,576

Total Current Liabilities___

_ 78,475______

_ 84,928

Deferred lease incentives___

_ 5,396_______

_ 6,095

Accrued rent________________

_ 5,925_______

_ 6,260

Deferred income taxes_______

_ 399_________

_ 781

Deferred compensation_______

_ 3,559_______

_ 3,149

Other_______________________

_ 1,250_______

_ 0

Total Liabilities___________

_ 95,004______

_ 101,213

Total Shareholders' Equity__

_ 196,612_____

_ 209,949

Total Liabilities and

Shareholders' Equity________

$ 291,616_____

$ 311,162

TABLE

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)

Fifty-two Weeks Ended February 2, 2008__ Fifty-three Weeks Ended February 3, 2007

Cash Flows From Operating Activities

Net income

$12,807

$23,764

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:

Depreciation and amortization

15,806

14,468

Stock-based compensation

1,365

1,578

Loss on retirement and impairment of assets

1,814

332

Deferred income taxes

(387

)

(2,383

)

Lease incentives

663

953

Other

(811

)

(769

)

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

Accounts receivable

537

(662

)

Merchandise inventories

(4,119

)

(12,669

)

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

(2,541

)

3,653

Other

(5,255

)

1,002

Net cash provided by operating activities

19,879

29,267

Cash Flows From Investing Activities

Purchases of property and equipment

(18,434

)

(24,952

)

Proceeds from sale of property and equipment

387

7,202

Other

6

2

Net cash used in investing activities

(18,041

)

(17,748

)

Cash Flow From Financing Activities

Borrowings under line of credit

72,220

0

Payments on line of credit

(72,220

)

0

Proceeds from issuance of stock

700

2,777

Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation

299

480

Common stock repurchased

(28,499

)

(241

)

Net cash (used in) provided by financing activities

(27,500

)

3,016

Net (decrease) increase in cash and cash equivalents

(25,662

)

14,535

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of year

34,839

20,304

Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Year

$9,177

$34,839

Subject: Acquisitions & mergers; Earnings per share; Appointments & personnel changes; Trade relations; Shareholder meetings; Risk factors; Press releases; Inventory management; Costs; Administrative expenses

Publication title: Business Wire; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 20, 2008

Dateline: EVANSVILLE, Ind.

Publisher: Business Wire

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: Release

ProQuest document ID: 444671792

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/444671792?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Business Wire 2008

Last updated: 2010-06-30

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 124 of 313

Don't stand so close to me Caracas

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Economist.com / Global Agenda ; London (Mar 21, 2008): n/a.

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Abstract:

Venezuelans, unless they actively dislike a person (and sometimes, even if they do), use limbs to embrace and envelop rather than to ward off fellow humans. It can take some getting used to. And then there are the oddities of business relationships. There is the Venezuelans' punctuality - or to be more precise, their total lack of it. Lateness is a self-fulfilling prophecy: aware that everyone else is likely to be late, the punctual stop making an effort. Every so often, with few if any lasting results, Latin American leaders launch punctuality campaigns. Sometimes people don't show up at all for appointments. What's worse, they seldom phone to apologize later. One thing Venezuelans tend to do on time, however, is leave work. There are many honourable exceptions. Plenty of Venezuelans are efficient, hard-working and responsible.

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Keeping English time (and space) in Caracas

Monday | Tuesday | Wednesday | Thursday | Friday

Friday

"DOESN'T the proximity of Venezuelans bother you?", a Venezuelan acquaintance asks at a party. I look puzzled. Is he talking about personal hygiene?

"You know, the way they approach you," he goes on, trying to clarify the point. "Ah, you mean the invasion of personal space?" I suggest. He beams affirmatively.

I consider the point for a second or so, and conclude that, perhaps surprisingly for someone brought up amid British reserve, I'm more bothered by the latter. That stiff-armed handshake, for instance, that maintains a prudent distance between shakers.

Venezuelans, unless they actively dislike you (and sometimes, even if they do), use limbs to embrace and envelop rather than to ward off fellow humans. It can take some getting used to, if you move directly from one society to the other without anaesthesia or a period of adaptation.

The man sitting next to you, for instance, may well put his hand on your knee in the course of a conversation--something that in a British pub might lead to a punch on the nose. And then there are the oddities of business relationships.

I still, I admit, feel a certain unease when the (female) estate agent or insurance broker, for example, expects a kiss on the cheek after only one previous encounter. It somehow seems to erode the commercial nature of the business at hand.

As Alan Bennett once memorably put it, we seem to have embarked upon a relationship of "redundant intimacy". Am I more or less likely to complain about the flaws in the car you just sold me if we're already on kissing terms? I'm not too sure.

There are, I tell my new friend, other things that bother me about Venezuelans. Like their punctuality--or to be more precise, their total lack of it.

Take this morning, for instance. I arrive at an 8am meeting a couple of minutes early. That's known in Latin America as "English time". Half-an-hour later, just two of the other six participants have shown up. One phones to say she's stuck in traffic and will be another 15 minutes. The meeting finally begins an hour and a quarter after the appointed time.

Lateness is a self-fulfilling prophecy: aware that everyone else is likely to be late, the punctual stop making an effort. Every so often, with few if any lasting results, Latin American leaders launch punctuality campaigns.

Venezuela, which has oil (and therefore perceives only a tenuous link between effort and reward), doesn't take the issue seriously. Sometimes people don't show up at all for appointments. What's worse, they seldom phone to apologise later.

One thing Venezuelans tend to do on time, however, is leave work. I once tried to get a new identity card at a mobile office set up in a metro station. When I arrived, the workers were packing up the computers. "What hours do you work?" I asked, annoyed. "Nine to four," was the laconic reply. I pointed out that the time was 3.47. "We're already packing up," said the functionary, superfluously.

Once they have stopped work, getting them to start again can be problematic. The whole construction industry, to take one example, shuts down in mid-December, and it's pointless trying to get any building work done until at least mid-January. By the time the New Year torpor has fully worn off, it's nearly time for the Carnival break. But, to look on the bright side, at least you might get something done in the few weeks between Carnival and Easter.

There are many honourable exceptions. Plenty of Venezuelans are efficient, hard-working and responsible. It hurts them as much as it hurts me that so much time is wasted. But they're swimming against a powerful tide. The society, collectively, has an all-purpose answer to complaints about idleness and inefficiency. "We're not Swiss," they say with a shrug.

<hl2/>

Thursday

MY THURSDAY plans did not include spending six-and-a-half hours in the emergency department of a Caracas clinic, with the air-conditioning turned up so high it felt like a meat locker. But life takes unexpected turns.

It wasn't even a real emergency--no broken bones, no heart attack. But as the doctor put it, if you don't come in through emergency, the insurance company won't pick up the bill for any tests you need.

Even with that kind of prior warning, I admit it was something of a shock to find that admission seemed to be in the hands of a cashier instead of the medical personnel.

Before any treatment took place, I had to cough up the $80 deductible established in my policy. "And I can't offer you immediate attention," the cashier said curtly. "There are five people ahead of you--it could take a while."

"I've been here since 10 this morning," said the woman next to me. It was nearly five in the afternoon. "It's just as well it's not an emergency--I'd be dead by now."

The private clinics in Venezuela are full to bursting, and their emergency departments jammed with non-emergencies. In this one, there are no beds to be had. And that's no exception, to judge by anecdotal evidence. A friend whose small grandson had a severe asthma attack, for instance, says the clinic could only accommodate him in a small cubicle in the emergency room; his mother had to sleep next to him in a chair. Treatment plus the overnight stay cost $1,200.

The government says the private clinics are profiteers, trafficking in illness, and the president keeps threatening to nationalise them all. Let's hope he doesn't, because public hospitals are in a much worse state, despite official claims that giant strides have been made in recent years.

The day before my trip to the clinic, one newspaper headline claimed as many as five babies shared an incubator at the capital's main maternity unit. At another Caracas hospital, a few days earlier, doctors were complaining they had to immobilise fractured limbs using cardboard boxes, because splints and bandages were in such short supply.

The authorities dismiss these stories as part of a media campaign to destabilise the government. But it is impossible to disguise the collapsing infrastructure or prevent the doctors from talking, even though hospital administrators do their best to keep the press at bay.

The medical federation says 2,000 doctors have left the country in the past four years. That's not surprising when you consider that a monthly salary for a full-time doctor in a public hospital is less than $400.

The government's policy has been to set up a parallel system from the ground up--starting with primary health-care modules in poor barrios, staffed mainly by Cuban doctors--and to train thousands of Venezuelans in Cuban-style general medicine, graduating them in record time.

But more than half of the modules are no longer staffed, and the total built is less than a third of the target figure. Even if they were all operational, that only amounts to the equivalent of one for every barrio in the capital alone. The fact that primary health-care remains precarious can be seen in the marked upswing in recent months of epidemics like dengue, and even the highly unpleasant (and incurable) Chagas disease.

If you ever suffer a real emergency, your chances of survival are not great. The Caracas fire service (which attends health emergencies as well as fires) only has three working ambulances, one of which sits outside the mayor's office all day.

If you're lucky enough to get one, or if you have access to a private ambulance, you'd better hope your life expectancy without hospitalisation is measured in hours rather than minutes. Ambulances get stuck in traffic like everyone else, and paramedics complain that Venezuelan drivers are reluctant to get out of the way even for an emergency vehicle.

<hl2/><hl2/>

Wednesday

IMAGINE for a moment that New York, London or Paris had a forested, 3,000-metre mountain, complete with tropical climate and fauna, on their doorstep. If you ask a caraqueno what this city has that no one else does, the chances are that he or she will put the Avila Mountain high up on the list.

Remarkably, despite slums that cling to almost every other slope in hilly Caracas, the Avila has remained green and mostly untouched (except for the forest fires that consume parts of its flanks every year at the height of the dry season). It is crowned by a bizarre, circular, 14-storey hotel, called the Humboldt, which was built during the dictatorship of Gen. Marcos Perez Jimenez in the 1950s and has stood empty almost ever since.

Perez Jimenez also had a German company build a cable car that, in its heyday, connected Caracas with the Caribbean coast on the other side of the mountain. But the cable car was closed in 1988, and it was not until just a few years ago that the Caracas side was reopened. The private consortium that rebuilt the infrastructure was given a 30-year lease by the government (since the Avila is a national park), but then politics intervened.

One of the main shareholders also had a stake in Globovision, the only remaining opposition television channel, which has an implacably anti-government editorial stance. The shareholder was jailed for a few months, after being accused (on testimony given by a man later proven to be an inveterate liar) of involvement in a political killing. Perhaps by coincidence, the government then decided to confiscate the cable car in the name of "the people".

One day the National Guard showed up, the workers' uniforms turned revolutionary red, and the cable car's somewhat Disney-like name of Avila Magica was changed to Guarairarepano, the word the valley's indigenous inhabitants used to refer to the mountain.

I'm reflecting on this turbulent recent history as I stand in the queue for tickets at the cable-car station, beside the dual carriageway known as the Cota Mil that runs along the 1,000-metre contour-line. This is where the city ends and the mountain begins.

The government accused the cable car's former owners of discriminating against the poor by charging an excessively high entrance fee. The cost of a ticket has only come down from 30 to 25 bolivares.

But as we paying customers creep slowly towards the only ticket window (of three) that is actually open--and apparently staffed by someone with no clue how to process credit-card purchases--a steady stream of government employees and their families is led in for free.

At the top, along the narrow ridge between the cable-car station and the Humbolt hotel, little has so far changed. Except that the variety of food on offer has dwindled to rather sad-looking hot dogs and churros (pieces of sweet fried dough served with chocolate). More worrying is the thought--perhaps unjustified--that the cable-car system might not long survive the government's approach to issues such as maintenance.

The Revolution, unfortunately, has a long track record of seizing property from private-sector "oligarchs" and landowners and running it into the ground. Its inability to maintain beef and dairy production, for instance, on the farms it has expropriated is reflected in empty supermarket shelves.

I don't have much of a head for heights at the best of times, and I suspect that, as time goes by, my willingness to be suspended hundreds of metres up in a government-run cable-car will diminish.

Today, though, everything runs smoothly. And when the clouds temporarily lift, and the giant Venezuelan tricolor snaps in the breeze, the view is stupendous. To the north, the Caribbean. To the south, the skyscrapers that march along the valley floor. Caracas, as they say in Spanish, tiene un buen lejos--it looks better from a distance.

<hl2/>

Tuesday

IT IS 6.20pm and I'm contemplating one of the most familiar views in the Venezuelan capital--the tail-lights of stationary vehicles ahead of me on the westbound Avenida Francisco de Miranda, the main route through eastern Caracas. Twenty minutes ago I left a car-park 400 metres back, and I've been crawling along, wishing my car had an automatic gear-box, ever since. Plenty of time to work out that that's an average speed of, let's see, 1.2km (0.75 miles) an hour.

Crammed into a narrow valley, running east-to-west, and with few cross-town routes, Caracas is an urban planner's nightmare. "I don't know how you stand it," said a visiting colleague. "I'd adopt a Pol Pot-solution: herd the inhabitants out to some remote rural spot, raze the whole thing, let it revert to jungle and start again."

Until just a couple of years ago, the city used to have rush hours. Now it resembles a parking lot for most of the day. The brief, and almost wholly unpredictable, moments of decongestion almost make things worse. A journey of just a few miles that you have calculated will take 40 minutes suddenly and mysteriously becomes a 15-minute hop that deposits you, early and unwanted, on someone else's doorstep.

The reason for the congestion, on the other hand, is no mystery at all. In 2007, car sales in Venezuela, fueled by a massive increase in liquidity and negative interest rates that make saving a mug's game, rose by 81% from the year before. That followed growth of 50% in 2006 and 75% in 2005. Hundreds of thousands of new cars--a large proportion of which hit the streets of Caracas (where no new roads have been built for years)--brought traffic jams of epic proportions.

Even if each car takes up only 3 metres of roadway, 100,000 cars placed end-to-end stretch for 300km. And the problem doesn't stop there. Most caraquenos seem to feel it is their constitutional right to proceed into the middle of a road junction, regardless of whether there is a space to proceed into on the other side. You can therefore sit for six or seven changes of the lights before those at the head of the queue manage to force their way through the cross-traffic.

Lifestyles and behaviour have had to adapt to the new reality. Forget those breakfast meetings in another part of town: your entire morning will be taken up getting there and back. Make sure you live close to where you work (and where your children go to school). The American ambassador, for instance, last year shifted his residence across the city in a bid to reduce the hours spent every day in traffic between home and office.

The opposition mayors of two of the capital's municipalities decided they had had enough of waiting for the city-wide authority and the national government to act. They came up with a plan, inspired by a successful initiative in the Colombian capital, Bogota, to take one fifth of the cars off the road each day during rush-hour, based on the last number of their licence plates. Briefly, the hellish traffic eased, and despite the inconvenience of having to leave the car at home once a week, most residents told pollsters that they supported the measure.

Then the Supreme Court stepped in. In response to an initiative from one man, the judges ruled that the plan violated the constitutional right to free transit, making Venezuela (in the words of one of the mayors) the only country in the world in which vehicles have constitutional rights.

Still, things might get better. The government has imposed stiff quotas on car importers, supposedly to stimulate domestic production. And with exchange controls making hard currency scarce, the supply of spare parts is drying up. Pretty soon, many of the new cars that hit the road in recent years may end up permanently parked for lack of spares.

<hl2/>

Monday

ON A fresh, cool morning, the short walk to the panaderia and, if I'm feeling energetic, up the hill to Roberto's newspaper kiosk, is a pleasure to be savoured. A pair of boat-billed flycatchers, exchanging loud, rasping calls, perch on a lamp-post. An even louder screeching announces the arrival of half-a-dozen blue-and-yellow macaws.

They're a long way from their home in the forests of Amazonas or the Orinoco delta, but like more than a dozen other species of parrot, these former cagebirds are now happily established as a wild flock in the capital.

Caracas, as Gabriel Garcia Marquez once wrote, never lost its vocation as a jungle.

The dictionary translates "panaderia" as a bakery, but that doesn't begin to describe the function of this indispensable Venezuelan institution. Indeed, these days it is often something of a misnomer, for reasons I will come to shortly.

Traditionally run by Portuguese immigrants, it is a corner-store and coffee shop as well as a bakery. A place where you can buy your morning paper, grab a chair and catch up with the news while you sip the best coffee in Latin America.

There are, I will grant you, nearby countries with fine coffee-producing traditions; Colombia and Brazil, to name but two. And then there is Argentina, with its Italians and their espresso machines. But only Venezuela has good coffee beans and enough European immigrants. And having endured for years the tasteless concoction that passes for a cappuccino in Mexico, I say viva! Venezuelan coffee. (The beer's awful, but that's another story.)

I could buy a couple of papers at the panaderia and head back home. But Roberto keeps my copy of The Economist, whose arrival is always unpredictable and usually at least ten days late. His kiosk commands a splendid view eastwards down the valley, with the 3,000-metre Avila mountain on its northern side. And he's always ready with a sardonic quip about the government's latest lunacy, delivered in competent, Brazilian-accented English.

Today, unusually, it's not politics but music that's on his mind. "Not Sir Winston Churchill," he announces. "Not Shakespeare. The greatest Englishmen were these guys." And he holds up a CD of Beatles music.

Furnished with the morning papers--though not The Economist, which has still not arrived--I head back down the hill with breakfast on my mind. Nothing fancy, just a cup of British tea with fresh milk and a sandwich made with warm bread from the panaderia.

But it's six months since I last saw a carton of pasteurised milk. And the panaderia's French loaves, when there are any, are skinny and tasteless, made with a dough I suspect contains something other than wheat flour.

The government imposed price controls on basic foods and medicines several years ago, and failed to adjust them in line with cost increases. With inflation running at more than 20%, the predictable result is that the cheaper cuts of meat, along with chicken, milk, flour, cooking oil, black beans, eggs and a dozen other items are now in such short supply that fights sometimes break out when they are finally delivered.

Today is a no-fresh-bread day, again. So breakfast will be sliced whole-wheat toast, and a cup of tea made with UHT or powdered milk. Minor irritants to a relatively well-off foreigner. But it's not much fun hunting for milk if you're on a low income and have small kids or elderly relatives to feed. Welcome to Venezuela.

Illustration

Caption: Hurry up and wait; Property of the people; A lot of constitutional rights in line; It's a jungle out there

Subject: Geographic profiles; Tourism; Business etiquette; Social conditions & trends; Culture

Location: Venezuela

Classification: 1200: Social policy; 9173: Latin America

Publication title: Economist.com / Global Agenda; London

Pages: n/a

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 21, 2008

Publisher: The Economist Newspaper NA, Inc.

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: Business And Economics--Economic Situation And Conditions

Source type: Magazines

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 208730036

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/208730036?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 The Economist Newspaper Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Last updated: 2017-11-10

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 125 of 313

March 21, 2008 (Page 149 of 192)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]21 Mar 2008: 149.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 48

Issue: 331

First page: 149

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 21, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249388220

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249388220?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Mar 21, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-30

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 126 of 313

March 21, 2008 (Page 66 of 192)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]21 Mar 2008: 66.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 48

Issue: 331

First page: 66

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 21, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249388264

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249388264?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Mar 21, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-30

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 127 of 313

Today calendar

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Gainesville Sun ; Gainesville, Fla. [Gainesville, Fla]21 Mar 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Comics and Graphic Novels Conference: "ImageSexT: Intersections of Sex, Gender and Sexuality," with speakers comics creator Phoebe Gloeckner and animator Sally Cruickshank, 9 a.m.-9:30 p.m. today and 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Saturday, UF campus, Emerson Hall. Free. (rkrueger@english.ufl.edu)

Trinity United Methodist Church: "The Weeping Tree Musical," Easter story performed by the choir and chamber ensemble, 7 p.m. today; egg-hunt, hay-ride and more, 10:30 a.m. Saturday, 4000 NW 53rd Ave. (376-6615)

Wesley United Methodist Church: Easter festival with music, crafts, booths, egg-hunt and "The Passion of the Christ" showing for adults, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 826 NW 23rd Ave. (372-2845)

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

"Suddenly Last Summer:" A mysterious and powerful drama by the acclaimed playwright Tennessee Williams, 8 p.m. today; 5 and 8:30 p.m. Saturday; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Hippodrome State Theatre. Tickets: $25-$30 general; $20 seniors; $10 students. (373-5968)

"Twelfth Night:" Shakespearean comedy set in Italy, 7:30 p.m. today and Sunday; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturday. UF campus, Nadine McGuire Theatre and Dance Pavilion Black Box Theatre. Tickets: $13 general; $9 students. (392-1653)

"Hello Dolly!:" Musical based on the adventures of matchmaker Dolly Levi, 8 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays; 2 p.m. Sundays, through April 13, Vam York Theater, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. Tickets: $15. (376-4949)

"Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead:" By Tom Stoppard, 8 p.m. today and Saturday, Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 619 S. Main St.

"Grease:" Step back in time with this musical, 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 2:30 p.m. Sundays through March 30, Suwannee Valley Players, 25 E. Park Ave., Chiefland. Tickets: $10 adults; $8 students; free for ages 6 and under. (493-ARTS)

Comics and Graphic Novels Conference: "ImageSexT: Intersections of Sex, Gender and Sexuality," with speakers comics creator Phoebe Gloeckner and animator Sally Cruickshank, 9 a.m.-9:30 p.m. today and 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m. Saturday, UF campus, Emerson Hall. Free. (rkrueger@english.ufl.edu)

"Melrose Paint the Town Green 2008:" Art benefit by more than 40 painters, photographers and other visual artists showcases the historic town of Melrose, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. today and Saturday. Reception, 6-10 p.m. Saturday, Melrose Bay Gallery and Bellamy Road Arts, Micanopy. Benefits the Putnam Environmental Council. (475-3866 or mbagallery.smugmug.com)

Bartley Temple United Methodist Church: Easter celebration services: 6 and 7 p.m. today; 5 p.m. Saturday; 6, 9 and 11 a.m. Sunday. Egg hunt following services, 1936 NE Eighth Ave. (377-5022)

Trinity United Methodist Church: "The Weeping Tree Musical," Easter story performed by the choir and chamber ensemble, 7 p.m. today; egg-hunt, hay-ride and more, 10:30 a.m. Saturday, 4000 NW 53rd Ave. (376-6615)

Williston Church of God: Musical program "An Easter Celebration" with testimonies, scripture and songs, 7 p.m. Saturday; 10:30 a.m. Sunday, 225 SE Fourth St. (528-5982)

TODAY

"Requiem" by John Rutter: The Grace Chancel Choir and the Lake City Community College Choir perform, 7 p.m., Grace Presbyterian Church, 3146 NW 13th St. Free. (376-5654)

March of Dimes Fund Raiser: Spring formal with dinner, dancing and live music, 6-10 p.m., ARC Main Building, 3303 NW 83rd St. Tickets: $25 couples; $15 individuals. (334-4060)

American Legion Post 230 Blood Drive: Benefits Life South, 11 a.m., Hitchcock's, Highway 301 North. (481-3266)

Visiting Artist Lecture: By Steve Kurtz and Steve Barnes of Critical Art Ensemble, 5 p.m., Harn Museum of Art. (392-9826)

"A Ray of Hope - Help for the Caregiver:" Alzheimer's discussion for caregivers, By Joyce Simard, 7 p.m., Oak Hammock. (372-6266)

Pedaling for the Planet: Presentation by a family who bicylced 9,600 miles, 7 p.m., Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 4225 NW 34th St. (466-3735)

SATURDAY

Verdi's Requiem: Gainesville Civic Chorus and Philharmonic Orchestra performs with conductor Will Kesling, 7:30 p.m., Phillips Center. Tickets: $35; free for UF students. (392-ARTS)

Jacare Brazil: "An Intimate Evening of Strings and Voices," sounds of Brazilian heritage, 7:30 p.m., UF campus, Baughman Center. (392-0207 or arts.ufl.edu/cwa/)

Farm to Family Full Moon Concert: Live music with The Barry Side Band, Quartermoon, Daryl Brewer and more, begins 2 p.m., Farm to Family, Alachua. Tickets: $10 general; free for children. (farmtofamilymusic.com)

Teens of Comedy: Showcase of teen comedians hosted by comedian Lil' JJ, 7 p.m., Times Union Center, Jacksonville, 300 W. Water St. Tickets: $26.75-$36.75. (904-630-3900)

Ropin' In The Swamp: Team roping, Easter egg hunt, pictures with animals, food and more, 9 a.m., UF Horse Teaching Unit, 1934 SW 63rd Ave. (www.animal.ufl.edu/ans4234)

Bike on the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail: 9 a.m., Gainesville Hawthorne Trail, 3300 SE 15th St. $5. (466-4100)

Exhibition Spotlight Tour: "Paradigms and the Unexpected," 2 p.m., Harn Museum of Art. (392-9826)

Adult Rowing Clinic: 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Newnan's Lake Boathouse. $75. (www.gainesvillearearowing.com)

Family Day: Learn about abstinence education, substance abuse and crime prevention, 9 a.m., Unity Temple Of Deliverance Outreach Center, 2351 NE 200th Ave. (528-3556)

Gardening For Kids: 2 p.m., Millhopper Branch Library. (334-1272)

"Getting A Summer Job": For teens, 1:30 p.m., Hawthorne Branch Library. (481-1920)

Barnes & Noble: Pierce Kelley, author of "Bocas del Toro" signs books, 2 p.m., 3910 Archer Road. (372-3535)

National Alliance on Mental Illness Walk: Benefit walk, 8 a.m., Westside Park, 1001 NW 34th St. (334-2186)

Car Show: Benefit hosted by the UF American Society of Mechanical Engineers supports the American Cancer Society, 9 a.m., UF campus, Commuter Lot, Gale Lemerand. (www.mae.ufl.edu/asme)

Melrose Picnic in the Park: Benefit dinner catered by Blue Water Bay, 3-6 p.m., Heritage Park, 203 State Road 26. Tickets: $20. (475-3232)

Car Show: Benefit hosted by the UF American Society of Mechanical Engineers supports the American Cancer Society, 9 a.m., UF campus, Commuter Lot, Gale Lemerand. (www.mae.ufl.edu/asme)

St. Patty's Day Poker Run: Community fundraiser, 10 a.m., Silvermoon Tavern, Dunnellon, 3025 US Hwy 41. Tickets: $10. (352-207-0429)

Celebration United Methodist Church: Petting zoo, hayrides and more, 10 a.m., 95001 SW Archer Road. (367-8005)

Harmony Holistic Healing Center: Egg hunt, games and face painting for ages 12 and younger, 11 a.m., 10691 NE 109th St., Archer. (352-486-6229)

Wesley United Methodist Church: Easter festival with music, crafts, booths, egg-hunt and "The Passion of the Christ" showing for adults, 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m., 826 NW 23rd Ave. (372-2845)

Haile Village Farmer's Market Easter: Easter bunny, 8:30 a.m.-noon, Haile Village Center, SW 91st Terrace. (359-1087)

Spring Festival: Photo contest and blood drive at the Alachua County Farmers' Market, 8:30-11 a.m., US Hwy 441. (371-8236)

SUNDAY

Purim Carnival: Games, booths, prizes, Israeli dancing and horse rides, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Temple Shir Shalom, 3855 NW Eighth Ave. Free. (371-6399)

"An Evening of Harold Pinter:" Directed by Sydney Homan, 7:30 p.m., Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 619 S. Main St.

Forest Grove Baptist Church: Easter sunrise service, 7 a.m., 22575 NW 94th Ave., Alachua. (376-462-3921)

Bartley Temple United Methodist Church: Easter services: 6, 9 and 11 a.m. Egg hunt following services, 1936 NE Eighth Ave. (377-5022)

Bethlehem Presbyterian Church: Easter sunrise services presented by the Archer Ministry Alliance, 7 a.m., Laurel Hill Cemetery, Archer. (495-0966)

Easter Sunrise Service: Gospel choirs, soloists and local clergy, 6:45 a.m., Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, U.S. Highway 41. (386-397-2733)

Forest Grove Church Cemetery: Sunrise service and breakfast, 7 a.m., Forest Grove Church Cemetery, 8100 NW 226th St.

Gethsemane Lutheran Church: Easter Sunday: Services, 8 and 11 a.m.; egg hunt, 10 a.m.; pancake breakfast, 9-10:45 a.m., 4011 NW 34th St. $3 for breakfast. (378-2915 or 373-7072)

Grace Baptist Church: Service, 8 a.m.; pancake breakfast, 8:30 a.m.; Easter musical, 11 a.m., 7100 NW 39th Ave. (374-4748)

People: Stoppard, Tom

Company: Hippodrome State Theatre

Publication title: Gainesville Sun; Gainesville, Fla.

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 21, 2008

Section: NEWS

Publisher: Halifax Media Group

Place of publication: Gainesville, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Gainesville, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 01634925

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 390513119

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/390513119?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 New York Times Company)

Last updated: 2012-10-12

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 128 of 313

Weekend calendar for 3/22 and 3/23

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Gainesville Sun ; Gainesville, Fla. [Gainesville, Fla]22 Mar 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Comics and Graphic Novels Conference: "ImageSexT: Intersections of Sex, Gender and Sexuality," with speakers comics creator Phoebe Gloeckner and animator Sally Cruickshank, 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m., UF campus, Emerson Hall. Free. (rkrueger@english.ufl.edu)

"Melrose Paint the Town Green 2008:" Art benefit by more than 40 painters, photographers and other visual artists showcases the historic town of Melrose, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Reception, 6-10 p.m., Melrose Bay Gallery and Bellamy Road Arts, Micanopy. Benefits the Putnam Environmental Council. (475-3866 or mbagallery.smugmug.com)

"Twelfth Night:" Shakespearean comedy set in Italy, 2 and 7:30 p.m. today; and 7:30 p.m. Sunday; . UF campus, Nadine McGuire Theatre and Dance Pavilion Black Box Theatre. Tickets: $13 general; $9 students. (392-1653)

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

SATURDAY

Comics and Graphic Novels Conference: "ImageSexT: Intersections of Sex, Gender and Sexuality," with speakers comics creator Phoebe Gloeckner and animator Sally Cruickshank, 9 a.m.-6:30 p.m., UF campus, Emerson Hall. Free. (rkrueger@english.ufl.edu)

"Melrose Paint the Town Green 2008:" Art benefit by more than 40 painters, photographers and other visual artists showcases the historic town of Melrose, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Reception, 6-10 p.m., Melrose Bay Gallery and Bellamy Road Arts, Micanopy. Benefits the Putnam Environmental Council. (475-3866 or mbagallery.smugmug.com)

"Rosencrantz and Guildenstern Are Dead:" By Tom Stoppard, 8 p.m., Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 619 S. Main St.

Verdi's Requiem: Gainesville Civic Chorus and Philharmonic Orchestra performs with conductor Will Kesling, 7:30 p.m., Phillips Center. Tickets: $35; free for UF students. (392-ARTS)

Jacare Brazil: "An Intimate Evening of Strings and Voices," sounds of Brazilian heritage, 7:30 p.m., UF campus, Baughman Center. (392-0207 or arts.ufl.edu/cwa/)

Farm to Family Full Moon Concert: Live music with The Barry Side Band, Quartermoon, Daryl Brewer and more, begins 2 p.m., Farm to Family, Alachua. Tickets: $10 general; free for children. (farmtofamilymusic.com)

Ropin' In The Swamp: Team roping, Easter egg hunt, pictures with animals, food and more, 9 a.m., UF Horse Teaching Unit, 1934 SW 63rd Ave. (www.animal.ufl.edu/ans4234)

Bike on the Gainesville-Hawthorne Trail: 9 a.m., Gainesville Hawthorne Trail, 3300 SE 15th St. $5. (466-4100)

Adult Rowing Clinic: 10:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m., Newnan's Lake Boathouse. $75. (www.gainesvillearearowing.com)

Gardening For Kids: 2 p.m., Millhopper Branch Library. (334-1272)

"Getting A Summer Job": For teens, 1:30 p.m., Hawthorne Branch Library. (481-1920)

Barnes & Noble: Pierce Kelley, author of "Bocas del Toro" signs books, 2 p.m., 3910 Archer Road. (372-3535)

Car Show: Benefit hosted by the UF American Society of Mechanical Engineers supports the American Cancer Society, 9 a.m., UF campus, Commuter Lot, Gale Lemerand. (www.mae.ufl.edu/asme)

Melrose Picnic in the Park: Benefit dinner catered by Blue Water Bay, 3-6 p.m., Heritage Park, 203 State Road 26. Tickets: $20. (475-3232)

Harmony Holistic Healing Center: Egg hunt, games and face painting for ages 12 and younger, 11 a.m., 10691 NE 109th St., Archer. (352-486-6229)

Haile Village Farmer's Market Easter: Easter bunny, 8:30 a.m.-noon, Haile Village Center, SW 91st Terrace. (359-1087)

Spring Festival: Photo contest and blood drive at the Alachua County Farmers' Market, 8:30-11 a.m., US Hwy 441. (371-8236)

SUNDAY

Purim Carnival: Games, booths, prizes, Israeli dancing and horse rides, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., Temple Shir Shalom, 3855 NW Eighth Ave. Free. (371-6399)

"An Evening of Harold Pinter:" Directed by Sydney Homan, 7:30 p.m., Acrosstown Repretory Theatre, 619 S. Main St.

BOTH DAYS

"Suddenly Last Summer:" A mysterious and powerful drama by the acclaimed playwright Tennessee Williams, 5 and 8:30 p.m. today; and 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Hippodrome State Theatre. Tickets: $25-$30 general; $20 seniors; $10 students. (373-5968)

"Twelfth Night:" Shakespearean comedy set in Italy, 2 and 7:30 p.m. today; and 7:30 p.m. Sunday; . UF campus, Nadine McGuire Theatre and Dance Pavilion Black Box Theatre. Tickets: $13 general; $9 students. (392-1653)

"Hello Dolly!:" Musical based on the adventures of matchmaker Dolly Levi, 8 p.m. Wednesdays-Fridays; 2 p.m. Sundays, through April 13, Vam York Theater, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. Tickets: $15. (376-4949)

"Grease:" 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays; 2:30 p.m. Sundays through March 30, Suwannee Valley Players, 25 E. Park Ave., Chiefland. Tickets: $10 adults; $8 students; free for ages 6 and under. (493-ARTS)

Publication title: Gainesville Sun; Gainesville, Fla.

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 22, 2008

Section: NEWS

Publisher: Halifax Media Group

Place of publication: Gainesville, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Gainesville, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 01634925

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 390549704

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/390549704?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 New York Times Company)

Last updated: 2012-10-12

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 129 of 313

March 23, 2008 (Page 67 of 298)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]23 Mar 2008: 67.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 48

Issue: 333

First page: 67

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 23, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249142255

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249142255?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Mar 23, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 130 of 313

CRUISE ROUND-UP: Bigger and better

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: TTG, Travel Trade Gazette, U.K. and Ireland ; London (Mar 28, 2008): 55.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Carnival ships Inspiration and Imagination now boast extended on-deck waterparks as part of the line's $250 million Evolutions of Fun programme. The waterparks are now being rolled out on Carnival's fantasy-class ships, with Carnival Fantasy shortly followed by Fascination.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

NCL is to upgrade its fleet in the coming months, with the introduction of its Freestyle 2.0 concept including new restaurant menus and cabin facilities. The first ship to be upgraded will be UK-based Norwegian Jade, with the rest of the fleet completed by June 1.

www.ncl.co.uk

Carnival ships Inspiration and Imagination now boast extended on-deck waterparks as part of the line's $250 million Evolutions of Fun programme. The waterparks are now being rolled out on Carnival's fantasy-class ships, with Carnival Fantasy shortly followed by Fascination.

www.carnivalcruise.co.uk

Holland America Line's Prinsendam has had a $20 million overhaul, with remodelled bathrooms, an expanded promenade and a refit of carpets and surfaces. The ship, which is the smallest in the HAL fleet, also has a new Explorations Cafe, powered by The New York Times.

www.hollandamerica.co.uk

Island Cruises' Island Escape has had a multimillion-pound refit, with work carried out in passenger and crew areas during a sailing from Brazil to Europe and then in dry dock. Main improvements include the addition of a new Champions Bar, a full refurb of outside cabins on deck nine, a revamp of the Ocean Theatre and the expansion of the Beachcomber restaurant and Sailaway Bar.

www.islandcruises.com

Copyright: CMP Information Ltd.

Publication title: TTG, Travel Trade Gazette, U.K. and Ireland; London

First page: 55

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 28, 2008

Dateline: XA World

Publisher: TTG Media Limited

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: Travel And Tourism

ISSN: 02624397

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 235857955

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/235857955?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright : 2008 CMP Information Ltd.)

Last updated: 2017-10-31

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 131 of 313

March 29, 2008 (Page 158 of 174)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]29 Mar 2008: 158.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 93

First page: 158

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 29, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2225906817

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2225906817?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Mar 29, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-16

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 132 of 313

Intrigue surrounds $1 million Florida Derby

Author: Rosenblatt, Richard

Publication info: Ocala Star - Banner ; Ocala, Fla. [Ocala, Fla]29 Mar 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

"It's time to see if Tomcito fits with these big-time horses," trainer Dante Zanelli said. "I like [Nick Zito]'s horse (Fierce Wind) and Barclay Tagg's horse (Elysium Fields) is tough. Big Brown still has to prove himself just like we do. This is a race where everyone will start to get answers, not just us."

"He's an exceptional horse," [Curlin]'s assistant trainer Scott Blasi said Friday, the day before Curlin takes on 12 challengers in the $6 million race at Nad Al Sheba racetrack. "It's a big opportunity for us to show the world what a great horse he really is."

"Any time you are taking on Curlin and some other world class horses it's a tall order," A.P. Arrow trainer Todd Pletcher before leaving Florida for Dubai. "He's a horse that can jump up and win a race at any time. We're cautiously optimistic that he's going to run well."

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

BOYNTON BEACH - Two weeks after War Pass inexplicably ran last for his first defeat, trainer Nick Zito has two more Kentucky Derby hopefuls in the $1 million Florida Derby - Fierce Wind and Da'Tara.

While Zito is optimistic about his 3-year-olds, he believes today's story line at Gulfstream Park centers on lightly raced Big Brown, the 3-1 favorite with two breathtaking victories by a combined 24 lengths.

"The favorite is the story because he's so fabulous no matter how you look at it," Zito said outside his stable at the Palm Meadows training center. "Kent Desormeaux, his jockey, has been telling me how great the horse is and he hasn't stopped."

Big Brown trainer Rick Dutrow feels the same way.

"We see what is possible and we see it happening in front of us, and it's so much fun," Dutrow said.

The 57th running of the Florida Derby shapes up as one of the most intriguing Kentucky Derby prep races yet. This one is all about money, as in just about every horse in the field needs to boost his graded-stakes earnings for a chance to qualify for the Derby on May 3 if more than 20 are entered, which seems likely at this point.

Also, the race doesn't have an absolute standout and Big Brown drew the undesirable outside No. 12 post position. Throw in mystery horse Tomcito, a star in Peru making his U.S. and 3-year-old debut, and the Grade 1, 1 1/8-mile race has plenty to offer.

"It's time to see if Tomcito fits with these big-time horses," trainer Dante Zanelli said. "I like Nick's horse (Fierce Wind) and Barclay Tagg's horse (Elysium Fields) is tough. Big Brown still has to prove himself just like we do. This is a race where everyone will start to get answers, not just us."

Fierce Wind has won three in a row, including the ungraded Sam F. Davis Stakes at Tampa Bay Downs. However, he has no graded earnings. Big Brown and Hey Byrn, two of the three favorites, are in the same situation. Of the 12 starters, only Majestic Warrior ranks among the top 25 graded earners, at No. 16 with $164,000.

The winner's share of the Florida Derby is $600,000, with $200,000 for second and $100,000 for third. The Lexington Stakes on April 19 could be a final option for trainers looking to give their horse a last chance of earning enough money.

"This is a big shot for earnings, that's for sure," Zito said.

Big Brown faces a tough test from the No. 12 post. Since Gulfstream was rebuilt four years ago, no horse has won a 1 1/8-mile race over the main track from the No. 11 or No. 12 posts.

Dutrow isn't deterred.

"As long as he breaks good, it eliminates any chance of him getting into trouble," the trainer said.

Meanwhile, Fierce Wind starts from the rail with Cornelio Velasquez aboard.

"Even though you get a good post, you're horse has to be good enough," Zito said. "He needs to take advantage and get himself in position from there."

That was not the case for top Derby contender War Pass in the Tampa Bay Derby on March 15. The front-running War Pass was restless in the gate, got pinched back at the start and never found his rhythm. It was his first defeat after rolling to five victories.

The loss still bothers Zito, who says War Pass put in a "fabulous" workout Thursday at Palm Meadows in preparation for his final Derby prep in the Wood Memorial at Aqueduct on April 5.

"I still think he's my best horse," the trainer said. "And I promise you, nobody will be in War Pass' way early. Whether he makes it or not, I don't know what the outcome will be. But I can tell you one thing - he'll be on the lead."

For now, he's thinking about Fierce Wind and Da'Tara.

"I have a lot of faith in Fierce Wind, and Da'Tara will run a good race," Zito said.

DUBAI WORLD CUP

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates - Curlin is ready to defend his Horse of the Year title against the rest of the world in the Dubai World Cup.

"He's an exceptional horse," Curlin's assistant trainer Scott Blasi said Friday, the day before Curlin takes on 12 challengers in the $6 million race at Nad Al Sheba racetrack. "It's a big opportunity for us to show the world what a great horse he really is."

Curlin has taken up residence in this Gulf city-state for a month now, having warmed up for the World Cup with an easy victory in the Jaguar Trophy Handicap on Feb. 28. Jockey Robby Albarado arrived Friday.

"We all like to say they get better as they get older, and Curlin is a perfect example," Albarado said this week during a conference call. "He's more mature, he's bigger, and he's serious about horse racing. I feel like the best three races were his last three races. If he continues his streak, he could be a superstar."

Jess Jackson, who owns an 80 percent interest in Curlin, decided Curlin would compete as a 4-year-old rather than retire to stud like many other top 3-year-olds of a year ago, including Kentucky Derby winner Street Sense, Any Given Saturday and Hard Spun.

Curlin enters the world's richest race having won his last three races - the Jockey Club Gold Cup, the Breeders' Cup Classic and the Jaguar Trophy Stakes at Nad al Sheba.

Among those lining up against Curlin in the highlight of the seven-race, $21.2 million event will be local favorite Jalil, owned by Dubai Sheik Mohammed. The 4-year-old colt purchased for $9.7 million has won three in a row, including the Maktoum Challenge on March 6. Frankie Dettori will be aboard.

"Curlin is the heavyweight champion and holds all the aces, but we have to go in thinking that anything is possible," Dettori said. "Any horse is beatable."

Curlin leaves from the No. 12 post - which has yet to produce a World Cup winner - while U.S. rival A.P. Arrow will break from the No. 13 gate under Ramon Dominguez. The 6-year-old horse won the Clark Handicap at Churchill Downs and ran second in the Donn Handicap, a race that has produced several World Cup winners.

"Any time you are taking on Curlin and some other world class horses it's a tall order," A.P. Arrow trainer Todd Pletcher before leaving Florida for Dubai. "He's a horse that can jump up and win a race at any time. We're cautiously optimistic that he's going to run well."

Curlin has won seven of 10 races and has earned $5.2 million. With a victory, Curlin would join Cigar and Pleasantly Perfect as the only horses to win the BC Classic and World Cup the next year.

The field also includes Sway Yed, Well Armed, Happy Boy, Kocab, Great Hunter, Premium Tap, Vermilion, Asiatic Boy, Lucky Find and Gloria de Campeao.

While six horses were bred in the United States, the field also includes two from South Africa (Sway Yed and Lucky Find), two from Brazil (Happy Boy and Gloria de Campeao), one from England (Kocab), one from Japan (Vermilion) and one from Argentina (Asiatic Boy).

PremiumTap was runner-up to Invasor in last year's World Cup. The 6-year-old horse is owned by Saudi King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz. Asiatic Boy won last year's UAE Derby and is owned by Dubai's Sheik Khalifa.

The plan for Vermillion, winner of four Group I races in Japan and fourth in the 2007 World Cup, is to stalk Curlin and see what happens.

"There are good trainers here and they would not have entered the race if they thought they cannot win," Blasi said.

If all 13 horses run, it would match the largest World Cup field. Dubai Millennium beat 12 rivals in 2000, and set a track record of 1:59.50.

Curlin galloped a mile Friday at the training track.

"We're ready," said Blasi, who is waiting for trainer Steve Asmussen to arrive. "What's done is done, and a quiet day would be good for the horse."

Curlin is to leave Dubai on Wednesday for New York, then head to Lexington, Ky. The colt's next start was not revealed.

"With $6 million at stake, it's not the time to start looking beyond that," Blasi said.

Sheik Mohammed, the world's biggest spender on horses, is funding today's desert carnival - along with local airlines and developers - to pitch this beachfront sheikdom as a premier tourist destination.

Race day in Dubai lures spectators for its trifecta of top racing, bundles of cash and hundreds of scantily clad beauty contestants. Dubai is building a racing complex in the desert next to Nad Al Sheba park. The Meydan complex is to open for the 2010 Dubai World Cup, with the purse boosted to $10 million.

Credit: RICHARD ROSENBLATT, THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

People: Zito, Nick Dutrow, Rick Blasi, Scott

Publication title: Ocala Star - Banner; Ocala, Fla.

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Mar 29, 2008

Section: SPORTS

Publisher: Halifax Media Group

Place of publication: Ocala, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Ocala, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 01633201

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 390341449

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/390341449?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 New York Times Company)

Last updated: 2012-10-13

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 133 of 313

BRAZIL BISHOP BOOED

Author: Perazza, Tereza

Publication info: Herizons ; Winnipeg  Vol. 21, Iss. 4,  (Spring 2008): 9,11.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

A government effort to dispense emergency contraception in the city of Recife, where carnival festivities started in February, stirred the censure of Catholic authorities. Recife Archbishop Jose Cardoso Sobrinho warned the faithful that those who use emergency contraception face excommunication.

"Unfortunately, women haven't been heard on this discussion," Temporao said. "There are 700 hospitalizations per day due to problems relating to abortion. I wonder: if men got pregnant, would this issue be resolved by now?"

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Defying an anti-choice trend in Latin America's leftist countries, Brazil's health minister has proposed a national vote on abortion, and one city even handed out emergency contraception during carnival.

A government effort to dispense emergency contraception in the city of Recife, where carnival festivities started in February, stirred the censure of Catholic authorities. Recife Archbishop Jose Cardoso Sobrinho warned the faithful that those who use emergency contraception face excommunication.

The pills, which prevent pregnancy when taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse, were distributed at public clinics in Recife throughout the four days of frenzied partying. They were a part of the government's program that included giving out 19.5 million condoms during carnival, which ushers in the abstemious season of Lent on the Christian calendar.

The government has been distributing condoms during carnival for the past few years as part of a national anti-AIDS education campaign whose slogan, translated, means "good in bed means wearing a condom."

The condom campaign and the public distribution of emergency contraception in Recife represent the latest attempts by the Brazilian government to remove issues of reproductive health from the inner folds of Catholic doctrine, setting itself apart from many other nations in the region.

The biggest sign of this came a year ago, when President Luiz lnacio LuIa da Suva, who took office in 2002, appointed Jose Temporao health minister. Within days of taking office, Temporao called for abortion to be discussed as a matter of public health and women's reproductive right.

"Unfortunately, women haven't been heard on this discussion," Temporao said. "There are 700 hospitalizations per day due to problems relating to abortion. I wonder: if men got pregnant, would this issue be resolved by now?"

In November, the government began distributing emergency contraception pills in Sao Paolo metro stations. The move followed a government price cut of 90 percent for birth control at pharmacies in May 2007 and it's more than doubling the number of free contraceptives it distributes through state clinics.

AuthorAffiliation

Tereza Perazza, Women's e-News, www.womensenews.org

Subject: Birth control; Abortion; Pregnancy; Condoms; Health promotion; Acquired immune deficiency syndrome--AIDS

Location: Recife Brazil

Publication title: Herizons; Winnipeg

Volume: 21

Issue: 4

Pages: 9,11

Number of pages: 2

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Spring 2008

Section: campaign updates

Publisher: Herizons Magazine, Inc

Place of publication: Winnipeg

Country of publication: Canada, Winnipeg

Publication subject: Women's Interests, Homosexuality

ISSN: 07117485

Source type: Magazines

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 212388158

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/212388158?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Herizons Magazine, Inc Spring 2008

Last updated: 2010-06-08

Database: GenderWatch

Document 134 of 313

Three May Be a Crowd, but It Can Also Be a Marriage

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Apr 3, 2008.

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Abstract:

Repertorio Español’s production of “Doña Flor and Her Two Husbands” is a sex farce with the clarity and logic of a folk tale.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Raucous and bawdy, Repertorio Español’s production of “Doña Flor and Her Two Husbands” begins with a bang: carnival in Bahia, with exuberant music and dancing, revelers in colorful costumes (lots and lots of feathers) and a man in a dress, sporting a stuffed phallus. This adaptation of Jorge Amado’s Brazilian novel (in Spanish with simultaneous English translation via headsets) is a sex farce with the clarity and logic of a folk tale.

The story — the widow Flor marries Teodoro, a staid pharmacist, only to have her philandering, gambling bad-boy of a first husband, Vadinho, return from the dead — must be a form of catnip. Bruno Barreto made it into a hit movie in 1976, with plenty of sex and Sonia Braga. That was remade as an American film, “Kiss Me Goodbye,” and the novel was also the source of a Broadway musical, “Saravá,” starring, oddly, Tovah Feldshuh.

The sexual frankness and comic ménage à trois probably account for the appeal, along with the fact that it’s the woman, Flor, who gets to fight what Amado called “the fearsome battle between spirit and matter.” She wins too, combining respectability in the form of Teodoro with sexual fulfillment in the very carnal form of Vadinho’s ghost. It may be schematic, but it’s an undoubtedly happy ending.

Adapted by Verónica Triana and Jorge Alí Triana, and directed by Mr. Triana, the production treats the story lightly, with the farcical elements too broad at times and the sex oversold. (A little vamping goes a long way.)

But Mr. Triana keeps the action buoyant and tight, and has two fine leading men. The matinee-idol-handsome Francisco Gattorno makes Vadinho tender as well as a lout; and Pedro Serka balances Teodoro’s dignity with shy sweetness.

Selenis Leyva and Denise Quiñones alternate in the role of Flor, who has “the decency of a virgin, and a fire that burns her insides.” I saw Ms. Leyva, who excels in comic scenes but doesn’t always make Flor’s conflicting emotional currents clear.

Whatever the production’s faults, though, audience members didn’t seem to mind. The party onstage was contagious.

“Doña Flor and Her Two Husbands” continues through June 15 at Repertorio Español, 138 East 27th Street, Manhattan; (212) 225-9920.

People: Amado, Jorge Braga, Sonia

Identifier / keyword: Amado, Jorge Slogans and Mottoes Repertorio Espanol Bahia (Brazil) Books and Literature Theater Barreto, Bruno Writing and Writers Brazil Braga, Sonia Folk Music Triana, Verónica Costumes, Theatrical Feldshuh, Tovah Doña Flor and Her Two Husbands (Play)

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 3, 2008

Section: theater

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 1744502310

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/1744502310?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-10

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 135 of 313

BRAZILAND IN THE EMIRATES

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Info - Prod Research (Middle East) ; Ramat-Gan [Ramat-Gan]03 Apr 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

According to anba: Syrian businessman Firas Tlass, Haitham Ahmed Belhasa, from the Emirates, and Mario Garnero, from Brazil, are launching in Dubai a project to be called Braziland. The three businessmen were yesterday (01) at the offices of the Arab Brazilian Chamber of Commerce, in S?o Paulo (SE Brazil), to present a new project to local entrepreneurs and to ask for the support of the organisation. "The idea is to make a miniature Brazil in Dubai, showing the culture of Brazil and the business opportunities offered by the country," stated Tlass. The project is a great real estate enterprise, to be erected on a 1.3 million square-metre piece of land, located on one of the islands of Dubai Waterfront.

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According to anba: Syrian businessman Firas Tlass, Haitham Ahmed Belhasa, from the Emirates, and Mario Garnero, from Brazil, are launching in Dubai a project to be called Braziland. The three businessmen were yesterday (01) at the offices of the Arab Brazilian Chamber of Commerce, in S?o Paulo (SE Brazil), to present a new project to local entrepreneurs and to ask for the support of the organisation. "The idea is to make a miniature Brazil in Dubai, showing the culture of Brazil and the business opportunities offered by the country," stated Tlass. The project is a great real estate enterprise, to be erected on a 1.3 million square-metre piece of land, located on one of the islands of Dubai Waterfront. According to Tlass, the idea is to simulate an area of Brazilian beaches, the hotels, restaurants like the barbecue restaurants -, shops, Carnival, a sports centre turned to football and business centres. "Braziland is going to provide visitors who cannot travel to Brazil for financial reasons a way to learn about the culture of the country. Those who can travel to the country, on the other hand, will get a sampling and a taste there," said the Syrian businessman. According to Tlass, each company interested in participating in the project will have its space of land to build its own business. "I do not know how much will be invested in the project, as it depends on how much each company plans to invest," he said. According to the businessman, there is also interest in taking Brazilian companies that are already in the Emirates to Braziland. "The idea is to bring them all together in just one commercial centre. This simplifies business and strengthens Brazilian companies," he added. Dubai was chosen due to its location. "It is a centre point between the East and West. Apart from that, it is a region that is growing more and more," stated Tlass. Last year, around 30 million passengers crossed the airports of Dubai and the country's government's target is to expand the capacity of its airports to 100 million passengers up to 2015. Brazilian businessman Mario Garnero, the president of group Brasilinvest, a private development agency, is the local partner in the project. "We are currently making political and business contacts for the project. Next week I am going to Dubai to meet with local authorities and to proceed with the project," said Garnero. According to him, the idea is to represent the unique characteristics of each Brazilian state in Braziland. "We want to bring Brazilian characteristics there," he said.

Credit: Info-Prod Strategic Business Information

Publication title: Info - Prod Research (Middle East); Ramat-Gan

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 3, 2008

Publisher: Info-Prod Research (Middle East) Ltd.

Place of publication: Ramat-Gan

Country of publication: Israel, Ramat-Gan

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 457282838

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/457282838?accountid=4840

Copyright: (C) 2008 Info-Prod All rights reserved.

Last updated: 2010-07-01

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 136 of 313

Sao paulo rant lands emirates with prestigious digital award

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Al Bawaba ; London [London]08 Apr 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Filmed at his house in the city, the marathon natter continues for the time it would take to fly Emirates from Dubai to Sao Paulo - 14 hours and 40 minutes. The cameras keep rolling; there are no breaks, no cuts and no edits. Viewers can watch [Fernando] wake, eat, lie in a hammock, dance and play guitar, whilst talking about Brazilian restaurants, art, architecture, literature, food, football, Formula 1 drivers, music, museums, cities, shopping, soap operas, coffee, culture, cocktails, carnival, Portuguese, politics, banknotes and holidays, amongst many other things. While Fernando has more than plenty to share about Brazil's largest city, he is perhaps not someone you'd want to be sitting next to on a long haul flight.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Sao paulo rant lands emirates with prestigious digital award

Normally, people who talk non-stop become unpopular or get themselves into trouble. But a Brazilian man who did just that has landed Emirates Airline with a sought after advertising award. Emirates and London-based online advertising agency, Lean Mean Fighting Machine, have won a gold award at the prestigious Creative Circle advertising awards in London.

The prize was presented for their Non-stop Fernando digital advertising campaign that promoted the launch of the airline's non-stop Dubai-Sao Paulo service. Despite a record number of entries in the digital marketing categories, Non-stop Fernando was the only recipient of a gold award at a gala dinner, held recently at London's The Brewery. The advert, which many thought would never fly, is based around a character called Non-stop Fernando, who hoped to set a new world record by talking non-stop about his home city of Sao Paulo.

Filmed at his house in the city, the marathon natter continues for the time it would take to fly Emirates from Dubai to Sao Paulo - 14 hours and 40 minutes. The cameras keep rolling; there are no breaks, no cuts and no edits. Viewers can watch Fernando wake, eat, lie in a hammock, dance and play guitar, whilst talking about Brazilian restaurants, art, architecture, literature, food, football, Formula 1 drivers, music, museums, cities, shopping, soap operas, coffee, culture, cocktails, carnival, Portuguese, politics, banknotes and holidays, amongst many other things. While Fernando has more than plenty to share about Brazil's largest city, he is perhaps not someone you'd want to be sitting next to on a long haul flight.

When contacted, Fernando was reluctant to talk up his achievement, but it's clear from his mammoth rant that he is able to provide viewers with information about Emirates' 94th destination on an Amazonian scale. So much so, in fact, the advert is being reviewed by Guinness World Records, formerly known as The Guinness Book of Records. For those who may have originally given the film lip service, it can be watched in its entirety at www.nonstopfernando.com

it speaks volumes about the airline's global aspirations, however, we would suggest that if you do want to view the talk of the town - all 14 hours 40 minutes of it - you sit in a very comfortable seat.

2008 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)

Credit: By Al-Bawaba Reporters

Publication title: Al Bawaba; London

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 8, 2008

Publisher: Albawaba (London) Ltd.

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--Jordan

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 194843040

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/194843040?accountid=4840

Copyright: ((C) 2008 All rights reserved. Albawaba.com)

Last updated: 2017-11-07

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 137 of 313

April 10, 2008 (Page 52 of 71)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]10 Apr 2008: 52.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 48

Issue: 351

First page: 52

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 10, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249245546

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249245546?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Apr 10, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 138 of 313

The bloggers among the stars

Author: Blas, Lorena

Publication info: USA TODAY ; McLean, Va. [McLean, Va]11 Apr 2008: E.2.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

The heiress gives updates on traveling, promotional events and boyfriend Benji Madden of the band Good Charlotte.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

Celebrities stay in touch with fans by taking to the keyboard and writing blog posts. USA TODAY's Lorena Blas checks out what stars had to share about themselves this week.

Kanye West

Blog site: kanyeuniversecity.com/blog

Topic: The superstar performer writes about what he has been up to lately. Most of his posts are images, sometimes personal photos, that he deems worthy of noting.

Posted Wednesday: "If there's anything my mom taught me is to enjoy life. I just recorded my first verse in the last 6 months 2 days ago at Bape's Studio in Japan. It felt good and I was inspired. ... I am a total mad man now, up till 3 am every night, trying 2 fight pain, board-um, and uncertainty with creativity. All that said, life is good..... good as finding the perfect fabric for a simple one button casual blazer with matching pants."

Paris Hilton

Blog site: myspace.com/parishilton

Topic: The heiress gives updates on traveling, promotional events and boyfriend Benji Madden of the band Good Charlotte.

Posted Tuesday: "I've been on tour with my boyfriend for almost a month now. We've been everywhere from South Africa to all around Europe. It's been so much fun! I've never felt so happy and in love, he's such an amazing guy and life has never been better! :) It's so much fun going to their shows every night, I now know every song by heart. I love Good Charlotte, they rock!! All the guys in the band are so cool and sweet."

Marlee Matlin

Blog site: Find it at life.usatoday.com

Topic: ABC's Dancing With the Stars contestant reveals how she and partner Fabian Sanchez are preparing for next week's number.

Posted Wednesday: "So this week is the Samba for me. Fabian has promised to pump up the volume and raise the stakes and I am determined to wow the judges. Right after last night's results show, we ran up to wardrobe to begin working on our outfits. Since the Samba is the dance of Brazil and Carnival, we want to reflect that in the clothes. The hotter the better!"

Illustration

PHOTO, B/W, Reuters; PHOTO, B/W, Pool photo,Jens Meyer; PHOTO, B/W, AFP/Getty Images; Caption:

Subject: Clothing

Publication title: USA TODAY; McLean, Va.

Pages: E.2

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 11, 2008

Section: LIFE

Publisher: USA Today, a division of Gannett Satellite Information Network, Inc.

Place of publication: McLean, Va.

Country of publication: United States, McLean, Va.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 07347456

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 409032980

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/409032980?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright (c) 2008 USA Today. All Rights Reserved.)

Last updated: 2017-11-25

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 139 of 313

'It has all happened by accident'

Author: Jenkins, David

Publication info: FT.com ; London (Apr 12, 2008).

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

"We may not be good," says Loyd Grossman, "but we have got style - and attitude." The 57-year-old is not, heaven forfend, talking about his eponymous sauce empire but about his band, Jet Bronx and the New Forbidden.

He (Jet) and they (the New Forbidden) are rehearsing in a scuzzy studio underneath the arches below Putney Bridge Tube station. The ceiling is low, the furniture torn and frayed and, as Grossman says, "It's got that same damp carpet and hot valve smell that's impregnated into studios everywhere." James Baring, by day an estate agent but now on bass, is not so tolerant: "I'm all for cred," he says, peering despondently at the decrepit air-conditioning unit, "but I'm wondering if we aren't being a bit too 'street' using this place." Grossman's having none of this: "It's our studio of choice!" "Chosen because it's cheapest," chips in Charlie Wright, who's on drums and designs websites for a living. Grossman sails on: "It brings a certain reality to our sound, unlike those clinical studio-based bands." He pauses: "Actually, there was a very hot all-girl band rehearsing when we got here. They were very ... professional."

So, too, are Grossman and the band, for all their part-time status; their singer (and temporary keyboard player) is Valentine Guinness, once lead singer of the group Panic, for whom his ex-wife Lulu, the handbag queen, was a backing singer. When Guinness arrives, a little late, Grossman - who is dressed in a "standard black Joseph suit", black T-shirt and olive Converse trainers - is squeezing some dark and dirty riffs out of a 1968 Les Paul Goldtop he bought at New King's Road Vintage Guitar Emporium, but it's buzzing wildly ("We're a very buzzy band"). Guinness addresses the troops: "What shall we play? Something we know. That'll narrow it down." Grossman looks up from his guitar: "Let's start with 'Ain't Doin' Nothing,'" he says. "One of the great punk anthems."

One of the great punk anthems, indeed. "Ain't Doin' Nothing" was Grossman's one (self-written) hit back in 1977, when he recorded as Jet Bronx and the Forbidden. "Jet Bronx because it sounded American, the Forbidden because it sounded attitudinal," he says. (George Ford, who worked with Hall and Oates, was on bass, Stuart Elliott, who later worked with Cockney Rebel, on drums.) "It rocketed to number 49," Grossman tells me the day after rehearsals. "It flared - and then it died." His follow-up didn't trouble the charts but Jet's name lives on among historians of punk arcana.

That's why Grossman's got his new band together: they're to play in August at Rebellion UK, a punk revival festival in Blackpool. "They were obviously dredging up the most obscure acts they could find," Grossman explains, "along with some quite well-known ones like Tenpole Tudor, Eddie and the Hot Rods, the usual suspects. So the organisers e-mailed me and ..."

Grossman is talking in the soigne surroundings of the Wolseley and he's in more formal mode: a beautifully cut dark blue suit, striped shirt and tie. The Wolseley is a favourite of his and the staff know him well. Other current London likes include Nobu Berkeley; a "wonderful hole-in-the-wall" Japanese called Yoshino; Ziani (his local Italian in Chelsea, where he lives). He'll be in Paris this weekend and will go to Brasserie Lipp: "There's something so real about it, and so exciting. I don't like poncey food. I'm awestruck by chefs like Alain Ducasse but I like ... recognisable food."

Grossman, of course, is most recognisable for his food and for his 19-year-long TV career presenting Through The Keyhole and Masterchef. And, let's be frank, for his voice, which has over the years provoked much mockery: "I've still got my Spitting Image head in my attic in case they want to put it on again," he says, a shade wearily. But where exactly is that accent - "seau" for "so", "gaught" for "got", etc - from? Grossman smiles tightly. "A few people have identified it very clearly as Boston [Massachusetts, near where Grossman was born]. A particular Boston, which then got mangled through years of living in England. As for the mockery, I only find it annoying if it's the only thing people want to talk about."

There is, in fact, much else to talk about and Grossman talks wittily and well, with a nice line in anecdote. When, for instance, he first thought in 1995 of bringing a premium product to a field that was what they called "commoditised", he had no idea what the food industry was like. "Within the industry, there are these very serious guys who are category buyers, who decide what's going to appear on the shelves. And I had an interview with a buyer - the sauces and pickles buyer - of a major multiple. And he was very uninterested. He said, 'So what's different about your sauce?' So I said, 'Well, it's very different because it's made with crushed tomatoes and it doesn't have any funny ingredients and it's made as close as possible to home cooking, etc.' And he said, 'How much is it?' And I said, 'It's going to be GBP1.29 for 350ml.' And he went ashen. And then he leant over his desk and said to me, very menacingly, 'If my wife spent more than 99p for 500ml, I'd kill her.'"

Still Grossman was sure he was on to a winner. Just as he'd locked on to a growing fascination with interiors when he cooked up Through The Keyhole with David Frost and Kevin Sim (they still own the format), so, too, was he sure that "people were travelling more and more - ordinary people were going to places like Thailand. And they were developing a taste for real flavour."

The results bear him out. Today Loyd Grossman Sauces (which are manufactured and distributed by Premier Foods) has a turnover of "GBP65m, at retail". The range continues to grow and what's interesting is the way Grossman has managed, as one marketing analyst told me, "to be as credible in Thai and Indian food as he is in pasta sauces. He's done what's not impossible but very rare: it's called 'mass niche'. He's created what's seen as a premium brand but sells gazillions."

So, is it true that he need never work again? "That would be nice," he says. His sauces have bought him the freedom to pursue his "hobbies" - which include being engaged with the museums and conservation world. He's a trustee of St Deiniol's Library, near Hawarden, the only residential library in Britain (dinner, bed and breakfast costs from GBP25); has been involved in creating the International Slavery Museum in Liverpool, which opened in August, and the new Museum of Liverpool, due to open in 2010; was a commissioner of English Heritage, and much more. Recently, he's been appointed chairman of the Churches Conservation Trust. "Yeah, that's a new gig," he says, "and I'm still learning my way round. I like gigs where I know enough to get the gig but where I still have a lot to learn before I can really deliver." His one miserable adventure in the public sector was the five years he spent trying to raise the quality of food in the NHS: "So depressing, so demoralising and so sad. I volunteered for five years and during that time I had six ministers. It was endlessly pushing the same rock up the same hill. We could not get the politicians to deliver."

It's a rare blip in a reasonably charmed life. "I've had no career. Everything that's happened has happened by accident, because I like doing what I like doing," he says. Born in Marblehead, Massachusetts, in 1950, Grossman went to private school in Canada before reading history at Boston University. His father had been a professional songwriter and "very good" jazz pianist. By the time Loyd arrived, he was an antiques dealer with a fine private collection. His mother's family had been in hot dogs; his father's forebears had been in the bottling business so "food was in my DNA".

So was music, and Grossman played guitar from the age of 12. "I was lucky enough to start at a time when if you owned an electric guitar, it immediately got you in a band." Grossman also wrote about music, for local magazines and for Rolling Stone, championing "prog rock" English bands such as ELP and the Nice; he admits to a glow of pleasure at the BBC's quoting his laudatory review of Pink Floyd's The Dark Side of the Moon in a programme celebrating the album's 30th anniversary. He was also an aficionado of English glossy magazines, so when a college chum suggested he do a postgraduate degree in England, he was up for it.

In 1975 Grossman hit the LSE (of which he is now on the court of governors) and, in due course, the punk scene. He also started writing for Harper's & Queen magazine. "The first thing they published was a piece about 1930s London Tube architecture. Very recherche, but the editor thought it was amusing." A job at the magazine followed, and the position of restaurant critic, which he held for 13 years. Nicholas Coleridge (now managing director of Conde Nast in Britain) was a colleague: "I saw him as a tremendous competitor when I first met him because we were vying for the same slots. Now, I'm of the unshakeable opinion that he's terrific," says Coleridge.

Any other memories of Loyd? "I once inherited a desk from him at work and in it I found a brown envelope which contained 12 photographs of Jet Bronx and the Forbidden, including one photograph of Loyd playing the guitar stark naked - a wonderful picture in which the guitar was being held strategically to conceal. I do remember he had very hairy legs."

Grossman's exhibitionist streak found another outlet in Through The Keyhole, a job he landed by mistake. TV-am were looking for new faces and someone told them about this guy with a silly name writing witty restaurant reviews for a glossy. So instead of Vogue's Bevis Hillier, whom the tipster had meant, TV-am descended on Loyd. "But if that hadn't happened," says Grossman, "Bevis would not have been able to devote time to writing his magisterial biography of Betjeman. So I think I've done my bit for English literature."

Now Grossman's doing his bit for British music. He took up guitar again five years ago when his daughter Connie wanted to learn. (Grossman has two daughters, Connie, 15, and Florence, 18; he and his wife Debbie have parted.) Connie gave up but Grossman rediscovered his passion. Now he's got five or so guitars, including a 1972 Fender Stratocaster and the much sought-after 1968 Goldtop.

As "a jobbing guitarist" in the US, he once opened in front of 15,000 people. Now, though, he's twitchy about playing in front of a crowd, let alone singing: "It's so early in the process." The last time he performed in public was on his pal Danny Baker's show, four or five years ago: "I did a version of the Kinks' 'All Day and All of the Night'. One of my favourites."

What's he going to wear for his return to the stage?

"Something black." He pauses and smiles. "Of course, in the 'glory days' I used to wear a black leather motorcycle jacket."

So that's what it will be?

Grossman looks up at the ceiling, smooth, sleek, immaculately turned out. He grins. "Possibly," he says. "Possibly."

..........................................................

Lured across the Pond to a life on a small island

Bill Bryson, the bestselling author, was born in 1951 in Des Moines, Iowa (in his words, "somebody had to"). He fell for Britain while on a backpacking trip to Europe in 1973 and found temporary employment at a psychiatric hospital in Surrey where he met his future wife, a nurse, before going on to work as a journalist at both The Times and The Independent. Then, in 1995, he published Notes from a Small Island (1995), a travel guide to Britain that has sold more than 1.5m copies. In 2005 Bryson became chancellor of Durham University - an honour at least partially earned by that book's recommendation: "If you have never been to Durham, go there at once. Take my car." He lives in Norfolk with his wife and four children, writesEsther Bintliff.

Terry Gilliam, born in Minnesota in 1940, moved to England in 1967 as an animator and became the only non-British member of Monty Python. He once told an interviewer: "When I came to England, I thought [the people were] the height of civility and politeness. But they are the least polite ... They hate one another and they're stuck on this f***ing little island." Gilliam later turned to film-making, directing Time Bandits (1981), Brazil (1985), Twelve Monkeys (1995) and Fear & Loathing in Las Vegas (1998) among others. Gilliam, who gave up his US citizenship in 2006, now lives in north London with his wife and three children.

Natalie Massenet, founder of the couture shopping website Net-a-Porter, was born in Los Angeles in 1953 and studied literature at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). After meeting her future husband at the Notting Hill Carnival, Massenet moved to London in 1996, becoming fashion editor of Tatler magazine. In 2000 she left the magazine to launch a website on which couture would be available at a click. In 2006, Net-a-Porter had a turnover of GBP21.3m. Massenet lives in west London with her French financier husband and their two daughters.

Ruby Wax was born in Illinois in 1953 and came to London in 1977 to train as an actress. After failing her audition for London's Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, she won a place at the Royal Scottish Academy in Glasgow. She subsequently worked with the Royal Shakespeare Company before moving into comedy, writing for Not the Nine O'Clock News in 1979, and appearing alongside Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders in the 1985 sitcom Girls on Top. As the host of her own talk-shows, Wax has made her "American" candour an integral part of her appeal. In one interview she appeared to lock the Duchess of York out of her own home in order to check the contents of her fridge. Now retraining as a psychotherapist, Wax lives in west London with her television producer husband and three children.

Company / organization: Name: Guinness PLC; NAICS: 312120; DUNS: 21-012-9250

Publication title: FT.com; London

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 12, 2008

Publisher: The Financial Times Limited

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 229088031

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Last updated: 2017-11-08

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 140 of 313

Lured across the Pond to a life on a small island

Author: Bintliff, Esther

Publication info: Financial Times ; London (UK) [London (UK)]12 Apr 2008: 3.

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Abstract:

Ruby Wax was born in Illinois in 1953 and came to London in 1977 to train as an actress. After failing her audition for London's Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, she won a place at the Royal Scottish Academy in Glasgow. She subsequently worked with the Royal Shakespeare Company before moving into comedy, writing for Not the Nine O'Clock News in 1979, and appearing alongside Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders in the 1985 sitcom Girls on Top . As the host of her own talk-shows, Wax has made her "American" candour an integral part of her appeal. In one interview she appeared to lock the Duchess of York out of her own home in order to check the contents of her fridge. Now retraining as a psychotherapist, Wax lives in west London with her television producer husband and three children.

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Bill Bryson , the bestselling author, was born in 1951 in Des Moines, Iowa (in his words, "somebody had to"). He fell for Britain while on a backpacking trip to Europe in 1973 and found temporary employment at a psychiatric hospital in Surrey where he met his future wife, a nurse, before going on to work as a journalist at both The Times and The Independent. Then, in 1995, he published Notes from a Small Island (1995), a travel guide to Britain that has sold more than 1.5m copies. In 2005 Bryson became chancellor of Durham University - an honour at least partially earned by that book's recommendation: "If you have never been to Durham, go there at once. Take my car." He lives in Norfolk with his wife and four children.

Terry Gilliam , born in Minnesota in 1940, moved to England in 1967 as an animator and became the only non-British member of Monty Python. He once told an interviewer: "When I came to England, I thought (the people were) the height of civility and politeness. But they are the least polite . . . They hate one another and they're stuck on this f***ing little island." Gilliam later turned to film-making, directing Time Bandits (1981), Brazil (1985), Twelve Monkeys (1995) and Fear & Loathing in Las Vegas (1998) among others. Gilliam, who gave up his US citizenship in 2006, now lives in north London with his wife and three children.

Natalie Massenet , founder of the couture shopping website Net-a-Porter, was born in Los Angeles in 1953 and studied literature at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA). After meeting her future husband at the Notting Hill Carnival, Massenet moved to London in 1996, becoming fashion editor of Tatler magazine. In 2000 she left the magazine to launch a website on which couture would be available at a click. In 2006, Net-a-Porter had a turnover of Pounds 21.3m. Massenet lives in west London with her French financier husband and their two daughters.

Ruby Wax was born in Illinois in 1953 and came to London in 1977 to train as an actress. After failing her audition for London's Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, she won a place at the Royal Scottish Academy in Glasgow. She subsequently worked with the Royal Shakespeare Company before moving into comedy, writing for Not the Nine O'Clock News in 1979, and appearing alongside Dawn French and Jennifer Saunders in the 1985 sitcom Girls on Top . As the host of her own talk-shows, Wax has made her "American" candour an integral part of her appeal. In one interview she appeared to lock the Duchess of York out of her own home in order to check the contents of her fridge. Now retraining as a psychotherapist, Wax lives in west London with her television producer husband and three children.

People: Bryson, Bill Gilliam, Terry Massenet, Natalie Wax, Ruby

Publication title: Financial Times; London (UK)

First page: 3

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 12, 2008

Section: WEEKEND FT

Publisher: The Financial Times Limited

Place of publication: London (UK)

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London (UK)

Publication subject: Business And Economics--Banking And Finance, Political Science

ISSN: 03071766

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 250100845

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/250100845?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright Financial Times Ltd. 2008. All rights reserved.)

Last updated: 2017-11-14

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 141 of 313

April 13, 2008 (Page 54 of 271)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]13 Apr 2008: 54.

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Abstract: None available.

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Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 108

First page: 54

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 13, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2225811204

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Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Apr 13, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-16

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 142 of 313

BG urges caution over Brazil carnival

Author: Li, Martin

Publication info: Investors Chronicle ; London (Apr 16, 2008).

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ANALYSIS: Gas giant soars on what one government official has described as the biggest oil discovery in 30 years. Even if the claims are overblown, the shares are still a top pick in the sector

It's hard for a company the size of BG to make a hydrocarbon discovery that's material in the context of its existing reserves. But, courtesty of its 30 per cent interest in the Carioca field offshore Brazil, it may have managed it. According to Haroldo Lima, director of Brazil's National Petroleum Agency, Carioca could contain 33bn barrels of oil.

That would make it significantly larger than Tupi, Brazil's other monster oil field that is estimated from tests last November to hold five to eight billion barrels. Tupi alone will make Brazil a big oil exporter; Carioca could springboard it into the global top 10. Mr Lima's comments certainly lit a fire under the share prices of the project partners; BG rose 5.4 per cent, while field operator Petrobras and Spain's Repsol also saw big gains.

But the partners played down Mr Lima's comments, with Petrobras describing them as premature. Petrobras is drilling a second exploratory well, and said that more conclusive data on Carioca's potential would only be known once results were analysed, which might take months if not years. Brazilian President Luiz da Silva added to the debate by describing Mr Lima's remarks as "improper".

BG also urged caution, emphasising that more evaluation was needed before the scale of the Carioca reserves could be known. Analysts highlighted the difficulty and expense of extracting the oil, which is estimated to lie beneath 2km of water and a further 2km of salt rock.

Wellstream, which provides services to oil and gas companies and has Brazilian manufacturing facilities, also benefited from BG's perceived good fortune, with its shares spiking seven per cent higher.

'Bumper' oil finds don't always turn out that way - just think back to the much-hyped Chinguetti, off Mauritania. But, even if the Carioca hullabaloo turns out to be overblown, BG retains excellent exposure to Brazil's exciting hydrocarbon province. If Carioca reserves turn out to be anywhere near Mr Lima's exuberant estimates, the gas group might find itself on the way to also becoming an oil major. BG shares, which we recommended at 717p (16 February 2007) remain a buy at 1,280p.

Buy

Publication title: Investors Chronicle; London

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 16, 2008

Publisher: The Financial Times Limited

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: Business And Economics--Banking And Finance

ISSN: 02613115

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 236211597

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Copyright: (Copyright 2008 INVESTORS CHRONICLE. All rights reserved.)

Last updated: 2010-06-11

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 143 of 313

Gartner Says Worldwide PC Market Grew 12 Percent in First Quarter of 2008

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Business Wire ; New York [New York]16 Apr 2008.

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"The U.S. results were in line with our expectation, indicating that the PC market was modestly affected by the U.S. recession, although there was no fundamental change in market conditions," said Mika Kitagawa, principal analyst for Gartner's Client Computing Markets group. Despite declining consumer confidence, U.S. consumers did not put off mobile PC purchases as evidenced by solid mobile growth during the first quarter.

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U.S. Recession Had Minimal Disturbance on Global PC Shipments in the Quarter

Gartner

Christy Pettey, 408-468-8312

christy.pettey@gartner.com

Worldwide PC shipments totaled 71.1 million units in the first quarter of 2008, a 12.3 percent increase from the first quarter of 2007, according to preliminary results by Gartner, Inc.

"The U.S. results were in line with our expectation, indicating that the PC market was modestly affected by the U.S. recession, although there was no fundamental change in market conditions," said Mika Kitagawa, principal analyst for Gartner's Client Computing Markets group. "The Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) and Asia/Pacific regions showed stronger than expected results, fueled by solid mobile PC growth across most countries. Latin America continues its rapid growth due to consumer spending."

Hewlett-Packard extended its lead during the first quarter of 2008 (see Table 1), as its worldwide market share increased to 18.3 percent, compared to a year ago. However, its regional performance was mixed. HP registered solid growth in EMEA and other regions while it struggled to increase shipment volumes in the U.S. market.

Dell registered its second consecutive quarter of double-digit growth in the worldwide market. Almost all regions grew higher than the regional average. Rapid retail expansion, as well as channel business, contributed to the solid shipment growth.

U.S. PC shipments reached 15.2 million units in the first quarter of 2008, a 3 percent increase from the same period last year. These results were on target with Gartner's latest forecast. "The preliminary results show that the price pressure during the quarter was greater than we expected," Ms. Kitagawa said. "Indications are that the market felt the squeeze in the second half of the quarter. The U.S. market is softening and this can potentially hasten downward price pressure and further intensify competition for the rest of 2008."

"Home mobile PC growth continued to drive U.S. PC growth," Ms. Kitagawa said. "Despite declining consumer confidence, U.S. consumers did not put off mobile PC purchases as evidenced by solid mobile growth during the first quarter. This growth was stimulated in part by aggressive price cuts."

Dell extended its lead in the U.S. PC market with its market share reaching 31.4 percent (see Table 2). Dell's channel program, Partner Direct, launched in December 2007, started yielding dividends, as well as its retail expansion. HP registered its lowest year-on-year growth since the Compaq merger in 2003.

Acer is trying to shift its target market from low-end to mid-range systems, and the shift has adversely affected Acer's shipment volume. Gartner's early results indicate that Apple experienced the strongest growth rate among the top 5 vendors in the U.S. market. Apple enjoyed strong retail sales, and there were indications that Apple showed decent growth in the professional market as well.

PC shipments in EMEA totaled 24.8 million units, a 14.9 percent increase from the first quarter of 2007. The strength of unit growth is linked in part to average selling price declines on mobile PCs. The increased competition in the consumer market from vendors such as Dell and Lenovo forced vendors to compete at the lower price points.

In Asia/Pacific, PC shipments reached 19.1 million units in the first quarter of 2008, a 19 percent increase from the same period last year. Although there was caution in the region due to the slowdown in the U.S. economy, it did not generate an adverse pull back effect on PC spending in the first quarter. However, rising regional inflation is a concern for the second quarter if governments cannot bring some price stability.

Latin America PC shipments totaled 6.3 million units, a 19.1 percent increase from the same period last year. The consumer market performed strongly despite seasonality factors such as summer vacations in many South American countries and February's carnival holiday season in Brazil. Strong inroads are being made by local branded vendors who are capitalizing from the booming retail markets. Retailers are providing PC financing in an unprecedented way.

The PC shipments in Japan grew 0.6 percent in the first quarter of 2008, as shipments reached 4.1 million units. The professional PC market grew 3.2 percent while the private market declined 3 percent. One of the growth inhibitors in the private market was the large volume of spring models shipped in late December 2007 from two major vendors. If those models had shipped in the first quarter of 2008, private market growth would have indicated positive growth of low single-digit.

These results are preliminary. Final statistics will be available soon to clients of Gartner's PC Quarterly Statistics Worldwide by Region program. This program offers a comprehensive and timely picture of the worldwide PC market, allowing product planning, distribution, marketing and sales organizations to keep abreast of key issues and their future implications around the globe. Additional research can be found on Gartner's Computing Hardware section on Gartner's Web site at http://www.gartner.com/it/products/research/asset_129157_2395.jsp.

About Gartner

Gartner, Inc. (NYSE: IT) is the world's leading information technology research and advisory company. Gartner delivers the technology-related insight necessary for its clients to make the right decisions, every day. From CIOs and senior IT leaders in corporations and government agencies, to business leaders in high-tech and telecom enterprises and professional services firms, to technology investors, Gartner is the indispensable partner to 60,000 clients in 10,000 distinct organizations. Through the resources of Gartner Research, Gartner Executive Programs, Gartner Consulting and Gartner Events, Gartner works with every client to research, analyze and interpret the business of IT within the context of their individual role. Founded in 1979, Gartner is headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, U.S.A., and has 4,000 associates, including 1,200 research analysts and consultants in 75 countries. For more information, visit www.gartner.com.

TABLE

Table 1 Preliminary Worldwide PC Vendor Unit Shipment Estimates for 1Q08 (Thousands of Units)

Company________ 1Q08 Shipments 1Q08 Market Share (%) 1Q07 Shipments 1Q07 Market Share (%) 1Q08-1Q07 Growth (%)

Hewlett-Packard 12,979______

18.3_______________

11,046______

17.5_______________

17.5

Dell_________

10,579______

14.9_______________

8,688_______

13.7_______________

21.8

Acer_________

6,762_______

9.5________________

5,399_______

8.5________________

25.2

Lenovo_______

4,794_______

6.7________________

3,969_______

6.3________________

20.8

Toshiba______

3,076_______

4.3________________

2,577_______

4.1________________

19.3

Others_______

32,868______

46.3_______________

31,570______

49.9_______________

4.1

Total________

71,057______

100.0______________

63,250______

100.0______________

12.3

TABLE

Note: Data includes desk-based PCs, mobile PCs and X86 servers. Acer data includes Gateway's consumer shipments and Packard Bell shipments.

Source: Gartner (April 2008)

TABLE

Table 2 Preliminary U.S. PC Vendor Unit Shipment Estimates for 1Q08 (Thousands of Units)

Company________ 1Q08 Shipments 1Q08 Market Share (%) 1Q07 Shipments 1Q07 Market Share (%) 1Q08-1Q07 Growth (%)

Dell Inc.____

4,775_______

31.4_______________

4,126_______

27.9_______________

15.7

Hewlett-Packard 3,804_______

25.0_______________

3,812_______

25.8_______________

-0.2

Acer_________

1,389_______

9.1________________

1,701_______

11.5_______________

-18.3

Apple________

1,010_______

6.6________________

762_________

5.2________________

32.5

Toshiba______

840_________

5.5________________

805_________

5.4________________

4.4

Others_______

3,402_______

22.4_______________

3,570_______

24.2_______________

-4.7

Total________

15,221______

100.0______________

14,776______

100.0______________

3.0

TABLE

Note: Data includes desk-based PCs, mobile PCs and X86 servers. Acer data includes Gateway's consumer shipments and Packard Bell shipments.

Source: Gartner (April 2008)

Subject: Computer industry; Target markets; Shipments; Retail sales; Price cuts; Market shares

Location: United States--US

Publication title: Business Wire; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 16, 2008

Dateline: STAMFORD, Conn.

Publisher: Business Wire

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: Release

ProQuest document ID: 444648108

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Copyright: Copyright Business Wire 2008

Last updated: 2010-06-30

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 144 of 313

Calendar

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Gainesville Sun ; Gainesville, Fla. [Gainesville, Fla]17 Apr 2008.

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FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY: Museum Nights "Starry Night" 5-9 tonight; "Namibia-The Smile of Africa:" Artist Mary Jane Volkmann depicts life of native people of Namibia, opens today through July 12; "Inside Africa:" Art exhibit reveals the significance of Africa and its people, through Sept. 7; "Butterflies and Moths in Contemporary Zuni Art:" Discover how butterflies have influenced Zuni Indian art, through 2008: "Charles R. Knight: Studies of Lost Worlds:" Seven study paintings and a self-portrait, through Jan. 31, 2009, Florida Museum of Natural History. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (846-2000)

HARN MUSEUM OF ART: Through May 18: "Paradigms and the Unexpected: Modern and Contemporary Art from the Shey Collection;" through June 30: "Highlights from the Photography Collection: University of Florida's Photographic Legacy;" through July 20: "Vision/Revision: Contemporary Art from the Harn Collection," SW 34th Street and Hull Road. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays; 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (392-9826)

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"SONGS AT TWILIGHT:" Piano recital by Evans Haile, 7 p.m., VIP reception, 6 p.m., Saturday, Historic Haile Homestead, 8500 SW Archer Rd. Tickets: $30 concert; $20 VIP Reception. Tickets available at OMNI Books and M & S Bank, Tower Square. (262-5652)

METHOD MAN AND REDMAN: Hip-hop legends perform, 8 p.m. Wednesday, O'Connell Center. Doors open at 7 p.m. Students-only show (admitted free with Gator 1 card). (392-5500)

VOCAL ENSEMBLE: A capella music from Renaissance to contemporary, 7 tonight, Santa Fe Planetarium, 3000 NW 83rd St. (381-3639)

PIPE ORGAN DEMONSTRATION: Students perform, 1 p.m. Saturday, UF campus, University Auditorium. Free. (392-2787)

"JOHN RUTTER: MASS OF CHILDREN:" Church and children's choirs, 4 p.m. Sunday, First Presbyterian Church, 106 SW 3rd St. Free. (378-1527)

CARILLON RECITAL: UF students perform work by contemporary composers, 3 p.m. Sunday, UF campus, Century Tower. Free. (392-3261)

"THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS:" Comedy about a family whose pursuit of happiness is counter-productive, opens Friday; 8 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays; 5 and 8:30 p.m. Saturdays; 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sundays, through May 11, Hippodrome State Theatre, 25 SE 2nd Place. Preview Night: 8 tonight. Tickets: $25-$35. Preview Tickets: $15 general; $10 students. (375-HIPP)

"GREASE:" Gainesville High School student production, 7:30 tonight-Saturday, 1900 NW 13th St. Tickets: $10 general; $8 students. (955-6707)

"THE AFRICAN COMPANY PRESENTS RICHARD III:" Directed by Kevin Mack, 8 Thursdays-Saturdays, through May 3, Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 619 S. Main St.

AN EVENING OF SAM SHEPARD: Directed by Sydney Homan, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, Acrosstown Repertory Theatre, 619 S. Main St.

"THE MIKADO:" Gilbert and Sullivan operetta, 7:30 tonight-Saturday; 1:30 p.m. Sunday, UF campus, Constans Theatre. Tickets: $11 general; $7 seniors and children ages 12 and under. (273-0500)

"THE SOUND OF MUSIC:" Star Center Theatre performance, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday; April 24; April 30-May 2, Alachua Women's Club, 14656 S. Main St., Alachua. Preview Nights: 7:30 tonight-Friday. Tickets: $10 general; $6 children ages 12 and under; $5 preview nights. (386-462-4001)

ELEMENTS OF STYLE: Presented by SFCC, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Phillips Center. Tickets: $15 general; $10 seniors, students, SFCC faculty. (392-2787)

SPRING DANCE PERFORMANCE: Presented by UF Danza, 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Phillips Center. (392-ARTS)

ART FOR A CHANGE ART SHOW: Proceeds will help dig wells in Africa, 7 p.m. Friday, 2nd Street Bakery, 1511 NW 2nd St. (215-1448)

CURE BY DESIGN FASHION SHOW: American Cancer Society benefit Broadway-themed event with fashion show featuring cancer survivors, lunch reception and silent auction, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Friday, UF Hilton and Conference Center. Tickets: $75; $100 reserved seating. (curebydesigngainesville.com)

BREAKFAST AND WINE AND CHEESE: Child Advocacy Center invites those interested in volunteering. Breakfast, 8-9 a.m. Tuesday, Holy Faith Catholic Church, 747 NW 43rd St. Wine and Cheese, 5-6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Savannah Grande Reception Hall, 301 N. Main St. Free. Call for reservations. (376-9161)

HORSIN' AROUND SPRING FESTIVAL: Food, music, hayrides, games and crafts to benefit HOPE, 2-6 p.m. Sunday, Helping Hooves Farm, 9722 SW 153rd Ave., Archer. $5. (495-0533)

MCINTOSH SCHOOL FUNDRAISER FESTIVAL: To help raise funds to build a new school with pony rides, face painting, live auction and more, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, McIntosh Area School, 20400 10th St., McIntosh. (591-9797)

TEXAS HOLD'EM TOURNAMENT: To benefit Tyler's Hope, 10:45 a.m. Saturday, Tutoring Zone, 1010 N. Main St. $150. (www.tylershope.org)

"RELAY FOR LIFE:" Golf outing to benefit the American Cancer Society, 11 a.m. Friday, UF Golf Course, 2800 SW 2nd Ave. $75. (375-4866)

MISS GREEK 2008: SCHOLARSHIP PAGEANT: 6 tonight, Phillips Center. Tickets: $10. (392-ARTS)

ARBOR HOUSE GOLF AND WALK: To benefit the Arbor House, 1-6:30 p.m. Monday, Haile Plantation Golf and Country Club, 9905 SW 44th Ave. (371-2229)

5K RUN: To benefit testicular cancer research, 8:30 a.m. Sunday, UF campus, Flavet Field. $16.

"CELEBRATE THE CHILD:" Street fair hosted by the Alachua County Child Abuse Prevention Task Force, 3-5 p.m. Sunday, Downtown Community Plaza, SE 1st Street and E. University Avenue. Free. (393-7520)

FIFTH AVENUE ARTS FESTIVAL: Artists, music, food and crafts, noon-8 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, NW 5th Avenue and NW 6th Street. Reception 6 p.m. Friday, A. Quinn Jones Auditorium, 1108 NW 7th Ave. Free. (372-0216)

FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY BOOK SALE: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday; 1-6 p.m. Sunday; noon-8 p.m. Monday-Tuesday; noon-6 p.m. Wednesday, 430 N. Main St.

SPRING CARNIVAL: Rides, games, food and entertainment, 5-10 tonight; 5-11 p.m. Friday; noon-11 p.m. Saturday; 1-9 p.m. Sunday, Dixieland Flea Market and Music Park, Hwy. 301, Waldo. $15.

BRADFORD COUNTY STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL: Food, entertainment and arts and crafts, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday-Sunday, Downtown Starke, 100 E. Call St. Free. (904-964-5278)

ALACHUA SPRING FESTIVAL: Music, food and arts and crafts, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Sunday, Main Street, Downtown Alachua. (872-3477)

"IN MARJORIE'S WAKE:" Discussion with film producers of Florida documentary, 8 p.m. Friday, Hippodrome Cinema, 25 SE 2nd Place. $7. (373-5968)

VISA TALENT SHOW: 7-10 p.m. Saturday, O'Connell Center. $5. (392-5500)

ANTIQUE SHOW: Antique dealers and food, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday-Saturday; 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, Gainesville Woman's Club, 2809 W. University Ave. (376-3901)

SMALL ANIMAL VACCINATION CLINIC: Low cost vaccinations, 10-11 a.m. Saturday, Midwest Feed and Farm, 13046 SW St. Rd. 45, Archer; noon-1 p.m. Saturday, 17010 W. Newberry Rd., Newberry. (495-9090 and 472-6050)

DAY OUT WITH THOMAS: Arts, crafts, music, rides on Thomas the Tank and more, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday; 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, Wooton Park, 200 S. Rockingham Ave., Tavares. Tickets: $16 Friday; $18 Saturday-Sunday. (866-468-7630)

"STARRY NIGHT:" Night sky viewing, puppet show, "Space Walk" and speaker Eric Ford, 5-9 tonight, Florida Museum of Natural History. Free. (846-2000)

PARTY FOR THE PLANET: Creature crafts, toad adobes and wildlife games, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, SFCC, 3000 NW 83rd St. $4 adults; $3 children and seniors. (395-5193)

EARTH DAY FESTIVAL: Dance, music, games, crafts and more, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Harn Museum and Florida Museum of Natural History. Free. (392-9826 or 846-2000)

GREEN FAIR: Environmentally friendly tables and booths, 12:30-3 p.m. Sunday, Unitarian Universalist Fellowship, 4225 NW 34th St. Free. (377-1669)

HIPPODROME 35TH BIRTHDAY PARTY: Music, flag dedication and proclamation from the Mayor, 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Hippodrome State Theatre, 25 SE 2nd St. Free. (375-HIPP)

CIVIC MEDIA CENTER FILMS: "Crude Awakening: The Oil Crash," 8 p.m. Monday; "Killing Us Softly," 8 p.m. Tuesday, 1021 W. University Ave. Free. (373-0010)

GRAD BASH 2008:Presented by the UF Alumni Association, 6-8 p.m. Monday, UF campus, Emerson Alumni Hall. Free. (846-3605)

KIKA SILVA PLA PLANETARIUM: Southern Nights, 7 p.m. Fridays; Children's matinee, 3 p.m. Saturdays; Black Holes, 5 p.m. Saturdays; Night Spirits, 7 p.m. Saturdays. Tickets: $4 general; $3 children and seniors at the door, SFCC, 3000 NW 83rd St. (395-5381 or sfcc.edu/planetarium)

COSMIC CONCERTS: "Sounds of the Underground," cosmic video featuring techno, dance, club and rave styles on the dome of the Kika Silva Pla Planetarium, 9 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 3000 NW 83rd St. Tickets: $10. (sfcc.edu/planetarium)

MORNINGSIDE NATURE CENTER: Living History Days: A slice of life from 1870, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturdays. Animals fed 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily; Barnyard Buddies: Youngsters meet animals, 3 p.m. Wednesdays, Sundays; Feed-A-Frog Fridays: 2 p.m. first Fridays, Morningside Nature Center, 3540 E. University Ave. Free. (334-3326)

GOERINGS BOOK STORE: Readings by MFA students Curtis D'Costs and Felice Lopez, 8 tonight; "Student Voices:" Readings by UF undergraduate writers, 3 p.m. Sunday, 1717 NW 1st Ave. (377-3701)

BORDERS BOOKS: Book signing with author Melissa McDaniel, 1 p.m. Saturday, 6837 W. Newberry Rd. (331-2722)

HIGH SPRINGS BRANCH LIBRARY: Mystery reading group, 6:30 tonight, 135 NW 1st Ave. (386-454-2515)

MILLHOPPER BRANCH LIBRARY: Great Books discussion group, 10 a.m. Saturday; Audubon Talk: With speaker Frank Chapman, 2 p.m. Saturday; "Butterflies and You," 3:30 p.m. Wednesday, 3145 NW 43rd St. (334-1272)

WRITERS' ROUNDTABLE: 6:30 Mondays, Books-A-Million, 6111 W. Newberry Road. (371-8420)

GAINESVILLE POETS AND WRITERS: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Books-A-Million, 2601 NW 13th St. (376-6623)

JONESVILLE WRITERS' GROUP: 6:30 p.m. second and fourth Thursdays, St. Joseph's Episcopal Church, Newberry Road, Jonesville. (fl_muse@bellsouth.net)

SENIOR PLAYWRIGHT FESTIVAL AUDITIONS: Roles for age range 20-60, 5-8 p.m. Monday, Hippodrome State Theatre, 25 SE 2nd Place. (373-0010)

CALL FOR ARTISTS: For spaces at the Art Festival at Thornebrook, Oct. 4-5. Deadline: June 30. Contact Lyn White. (384-3642)

HEART OF FLORIDA PAINT OUT GALA COLLECTOR'S SALE:Profits to benefit Florida's Eden programs, 6-10 p.m. Friday, The Thomas Center, 302 NE 6th Ave. (334-5064)

ARTISANS' GUILD GALLERY: "Art and Soul:" with artists Jeanne Van Spijker, Marie Rice and Linda Pence, through April, Millhopper Square, 4201 NW 16th Blvd. Hours: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; noon-5 p.m. Sundays. (378-1383)

ART GALLERY AT BOOKS, INC.: Linda Blondheim's Annual Studio Sale, through April 30, 505 NW 13th St. Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. (374-4241)

BELLAMY ROAD ART GALLERY: Collection of more than 40 artists from "Melrose, Paint the Town Green" through Saturday, 5910 Hampton St., Melrose. Gallery hours: noon-7 p.m. Friday-Saturday. (475-3435)

CEDAR KEY ARTS CENTER: Featured artist Connie Nelson, through April. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, 457 2nd St. (543-5801)

THE CEDAR KEYHOLE GALLERY: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, 2nd Street, Cedar Key. (543-5801)

COFRIN GALLERY: 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. weekdays, Oak Hall School, 8009 SW 14th Ave. (332-3609)

ELEANOR BLAIR STUDIO: Florida landscape paintings by Eleanor Blair, 4-7 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, 113 S. Main St. (378-6006)

FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY: Museum Nights "Starry Night" 5-9 tonight; "Namibia-The Smile of Africa:" Artist Mary Jane Volkmann depicts life of native people of Namibia, opens today through July 12; "Inside Africa:" Art exhibit reveals the significance of Africa and its people, through Sept. 7; "Butterflies and Moths in Contemporary Zuni Art:" Discover how butterflies have influenced Zuni Indian art, through 2008: "Charles R. Knight: Studies of Lost Worlds:" Seven study paintings and a self-portrait, through Jan. 31, 2009, Florida Museum of Natural History. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (846-2000)

FOCUS GALLERY: MFA Thesis Candidate II Exhibit, 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. weekdays, through Wednesday, UF campus, Fine Arts Building C, 400 SW 13th St. (392-0201, ext. 229)

GALLERY UNDER THE OAKS: 207 NE Cholokka Blvd., Micanopy. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays. (466-9229)

GRINTER GALLERY: "Visions of Bahia, Brazil in the Work of Jorge Amado and His Illustrators," 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays through July, UF campus, Grinter Hall, 400 SW 13th St. (392-0201, ext. 229)

HARN MUSEUM OF ART: Through May 18: "Paradigms and the Unexpected: Modern and Contemporary Art from the Shey Collection;" through June 30: "Highlights from the Photography Collection: University of Florida's Photographic Legacy;" through July 20: "Vision/Revision: Contemporary Art from the Harn Collection," SW 34th Street and Hull Road. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays; 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (392-9826)

HAROLD'S FRAMES AND GALLERY: 101 SE 2nd Place, 1-5:30 p.m. Mondays; 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Wednesdays; 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays; 11 a.m. Saturdays. (375-0260)

HAWTHORNE HISTORICAL MUSEUM: 7225 SE 221st St. (954-551-7692)

HECTOR FRAMING AND GALLERY: "MetaVisual: The Design Art of Jim Harrison," through Friday, 702 W. University Ave. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. weekdays; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays. (271-4243 or hectorframingallery.com)

JIM WILSON'S STUDIO: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays, 1014 NW 4th St. (378-5528)

MATHESON MUSEUM: Framed pieces commemorating UF's football and basketball championships, 513 E. University Ave. (378-2280)

MCINTYRE STAINED GLASS STUDIO AND ART GALLERY: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays; 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays, 2441 NW 43rd St., Suite 11A. (372-2752)

MELROSE BAY ART GALLERY: Collection of more than 40 artists from "Melrose, Paint the Town Green" through Saturday, 3-7 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 103 State Road 26 at Centre Street. (475-3866)

PRESIDENTS GALLERY: "Time's Up," Clock faces and posters by students of the Graphic Design and Technology Department, through June 11, SFCC, 3000 NW 83rd St. Hours: noon-4 p.m. weekdays. (395-5979)

SANTA FE GALLERY: "Annual Juried Student Art Show," through Friday, SFCC, 3000 NW 83rd St., Building M, Room 147. (395-5464)

SWEETWATER PRINT CO-OP GALLERY: "Pop-ups in a Box," exhibit of pop-ups by Sue Jester through Wednesday. 117 S. Main St. (375-0790)

THOMAS CENTER GALLERIES: "Richard Heipp: Selected Work-25 Years," through May 11, Main Gallery. "Beyond the Art Room: Those Who Can Teach Can Also Do," works by area art teachers, through May 18, Mezzanine Gallery, 302 NE 6th Ave. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays; 1-4 p.m. weekends. (393-8532)

UNIVERSITY GALLERY: MFA Thesis Candidates II Exhibit, through Wednesday. Fine Arts Building B, 400 SW 13th St. (392-0201)WORKS BY JIM CARPENTER: Floral watercolors on display through Monday, Falcon Financial Management, Inc., 2631-B NW 41st St. (375-7977)

"HERE AND THERE:" Landscape paintings by Georgia Bertcher, through April, Headquarters Branch Library, 401 E. University Ave. (334-3900) JBRUCE SPRINGSTEEN AND THE E STREET BAND: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Amway Arena, Orlando; also 7:30 p.m. Monday, St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa. Tickets: $65-$95 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

AVRIL LAVIGNE: 7 p.m. Saturday, Ford Amphitheatre, Tampa. Tickets: $9-$45 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

MARTINA MCBRIDE: 7:30 p.m. Saturday, Veterans Memorial Arena, Jacksonville. Tickets: $48.75-$58.75 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

PANIC AT THE DISCO: 7:30 p.m. April 24, House of Blues, Orlando. Tickets: $33.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

SHERYL CROW: 8 p.m. April 27, Moran Theater, Times Union Center of the performing Arts, Jacksonville. Tickets: $37.50-$67.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

SANTANA: 8 p.m. April 29, New UCF Arena, Orlando. Tickets: $40.50-$115.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

KANYE WEST: 7 p.m. May 5, Ford Amphitheatre, Tampa. Tickets: $40-$125 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

TIM McGRAW: 8 p.m. May 11, Amway Arena, Orlando. Tickets: $26-$56 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

THE POLICE: 7:30 p.m. May 16, Amway Arena, Orlando. Tickets: $50-$225 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

LESS THAN JAKE: 8 p.m. May 19, House of Blues, Orlando. Tickets: $18.50 advance; $20 day of show, at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

ALICIA KEYS WITH JORDIN SPARKS: 8 p.m. May 24, St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa. Tickets: $39.50-$100 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

MARIO CANTONE: 8 p.m. June 7, Hard Rock Live, Orlando. Tickets: $35-$40 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

STEVIE NICKS: 7:30 p.m. June 8, Ford Amphitheatre, Tampa. Tickets: $25-$125 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

ROWDY FRYNDS: LYNYRD SKYNYRD AND HANK JR.: 7 p.m. June 14, Veterans Memorial Auditorium, Jacksonville. Tickets: $41.50-$71.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

MELISSA ETHERIDGE: 8 p.m. June 19, Florida Theatre, Jacksonville. Tickets: $30-$100 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

TOBY KEITH: 7:30 p.m. June 28, Ford Amphitheatre, Tampa. Tickets: $30.25-$69.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

TOM PETTY AND THE HEARTBREAKERS: 7:30 p.m. July 16, St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa. Tickets: $55-$99.75 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

ELTON JOHN: 8 p.m. April 24 (rescheduled from March 16), O'Connell Center, UF campus. Tickets: $48-$88 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

SUWANNEE RIVER JAM: Country music festival with the Kentucky Headhunters, Gary Allen, Joe Nichols, John Anderson, Lorrie Morgan and more, April 24-26, Spirit of the Suwannee Music Park, Live Oak. Tickets: $80 for one day; $130 for the weekend. (386-364-1683)

HEIRLOOMS AND BLOOMS FESTIVAL: Antiques, vendors and entertainment, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. April 26-27, Thornebrook Village, 2400 NW 43rd St. Special preview for serious collectors, 3-7 p.m. April 25. Free. (384-3642)

GAINESVILLE BALLET'S DANCE FANTASQUE: "Peter and the Wolf," 7 p.m. April 26, Phillips Center. Tickets: $16 adults; $13 children. (392-ARTS)

EQUINE EXPO:Speakers, demonstrations, booths, raffles and more, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. April 26, Gainesville Equestrian Center, 15100 NW 32nd Ave., Newberry. Free. (495-9090)

UNDER THE TUSCAN MOON: Benefit for Stop Children's Cancer with silent auctions, artist sketches, prizes, dance performances and celebrity appearances, 7 p.m.-midnight April 26, Stephen O'Connell Center. Tickets: $150. (377-2622)

WINDSOR ZUCCHINI FESTIVAL: Rides, magic show, arts and crafts, food and more, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. May 10, 1401 SE CT Rd. 243, Gainesville. All proceeds go to the Windsor Fire Station. (372-7814)

"SEE HOW THEY RUN:" Comedy occuring in an English vicarage, 8 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, May 15-June 1, Vam York Theater, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. (376-4949)

People: Haile, Evans Danza, UF

Company: OMNI Books Ticketmaster Corp

Publication title: Gainesville Sun; Gainesville, Fla.

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 17, 2008

Section: NEWS

Publisher: Halifax Media Group

Place of publication: Gainesville, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Gainesville, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 01634925

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 390487927

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/390487927?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 New York Times Company

Last updated: 2012-10-12

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 145 of 313

Rotary exchange is a bridge with Brazil

Author: Mahshie, Abraham

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune Business News ; Washington [Washington]19 Apr 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

The Brazilian group was led by Jose Augusto da Silva, 71, a pediatrician and specialist in orthopedic molecular medicine, and included team members Adeildo Santos Filho, a security inspector at Brazil's national oil company; Patricia Lopes de Oliveira, a university economist; and Raquel Muniz Maya, an English teacher, all from the state of Rio de Janeiro.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

Apr. 19--It hasn't quite been Carnival, but for the past week Rotary members from Columbia's six area clubs have been celebrating and welcoming a group of Brazilian professionals.

The visit is part of Rotary International's Global Study Exchange, which arranges one-month international exchanges in all 50 states with an international group of non-Rotarian young professionals headed by a Rotarian team leader.

The Brazilian group was led by Jose Augusto da Silva, 71, a pediatrician and specialist in orthopedic molecular medicine, and included team members Adeildo Santos Filho, a security inspector at Brazil's national oil company; Patricia Lopes de Oliveira, a university economist; and Raquel Muniz Maya, an English teacher, all from the state of Rio de Janeiro.

During their stint in Columbia, which began Tuesday and ended today, the group went on specially arranged tours and vocational exchanges and was honored at various social gatherings, where they gave presentations about themselves and interacted with club members.

Having limited English skills and difficult-to-pronounce names, most were given nicknames, and a series of hand gestures combined with enthusiasm and curiosity helped Rotarians communicate with them.

"He's very uplifting, outgoing, complimentary and curious," said Rotarian Brenda Woods, who runs Progressive Spine Care and Rehabilitation, referring to Augusto da Silva, nicknamed "Ze." Woods said she enjoyed the opportunity to exchange ideas with him about integrative medicine as well her cooking recipes. But she was most impressed with his energy and commitment.

"At age 65, he went back for four more years of training and returned to practice full time. ... That's just amazing," Woods said.

Augusto da Silva said he's enjoyed the fellowship and generosity of Rotarians as well as showing a bit of his own culture. During his slideshow at a Wednesday luncheon, he told stories about his wife, children and grandchildren while showing images of his native city. He made some samba moves to demonstrate Rio's carnival celebration, and he exhibited a slower step to a bossa nova tune he played during a slideshow of Rio de Janeiro.

"All the time I have had Rotarians at my side receiving me with open arms," he said in Portuguese after the slideshow. "It's the Rotarian family that is worldwide."

Rotary Club, founded in 1905 with the motto "service above self," has more than 1.2 million members worldwide in 165 countries. About 600 members make up five clubs in the Columbia area, and a sixth club will be registered next Thursday. Local members attending a fish fry at the Knights of Columbus hall on Thursday said the exchange helps promote Rotary's mission.

"It's a vocational, cultural exchange," said Raymond Plue, a Rotarian of more than 35 years. "We show them what we have for culture, and they meet our children and husbands and wives and see that we're not that different."

"It makes for a better world understanding that's going to create peace," he added.

For Muniz Maya, 27, the trip was her first out of Brazil even though she has taught English professionally for nine years.

"Once you are able to visit another country, you are able to understand people and things better," she said, explaining the cultural aspects of America she can share with her students. She also shared details of her personal and professional life in Brazil with local Rotarians. "They've learned I'm a person that really cares about my family, that they are my friends."

Maya was one of four people selected from a pool of 100 for the opportunity to participate in the trip; one person was denied a U.S. visa a week before the trip. Though not a Rotarian, Maya said she understands why the program is limited to non-Rotarians.

"When I got this trip, I had to tell my family and all my friends, and they all asked what Rotary was," she said. "For each of us that gets a trip like this, there are many more that get to know about Rotary."

Justin Roberts, 27, president of Rotaract, a branch for Rotary members ages 18 to 30, found in Rotary a way to stay involved and interact with the community during weekly meetings and service projects.

"I was so involved in high school and college and as a young professional in Columbia, I didn't know anybody," he said.

Roberts joined in May 2005, and in May he will head to Brazil as part of the reciprocal visit. He said he's less concerned about preparing for his upcoming trip than the Brazilian guests were for their last night in Columbia.

"They want to go to a disco," he said. "I could take them to a regular disco ... but we're in the Midwest, so I'm going to take them to Cody's, a Western bar with hundreds of people line dancing."

Credit: Columbia Daily Tribune, Mo.

Subject: Awards & honors; Recipes

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune Business News; Washington

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 19, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 465455001

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/465455001?accou ntid=4840

Copyright: To see more of the Columbia Daily Tribune, or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.columbiatribune.com/. Copyright (c) 2008, Columbia Daily Tribune, Mo. Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Last updated: 2017-10-31

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 146 of 313

From Jazz to Fusion, Late and Live in Madrid

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Apr 20, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Within a 10-minute stroll from the Puerta del Sol, music lovers can take their pick of live jazz, rock, flamenco or folk-rock, or a fusion of all the above.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

IT’S 11 p.m. in the Plaza del Ángel in Madrid, and the strains of a jazz sax solo can be heard seeping through the plate-glass windows of Café Central. Inside, couples and small groups huddle around the 20 or so tables set amid mirrored pillars that seem to multiply the ambience without blocking the view of the stage.

Just down the street at Populart a crowd of jazz aficionados sip gin and tonics from giant goblets. A few young Turks in leather jackets stick to beer at the far end of the bar as the West Africa-born Justin Tchatchoua and his Afro Group warm everyone up with selections from their new CD of African fusion beats.

Similar scenes — some rowdy, others refined — are replicated nightly all across the city. Within a 10-minute stroll from the Puerta del Sol, the center of historic Madrid, music lovers can take their pick of live jazz, rock, flamenco or folk-rock, or an ever-growing fusion of all the above by top Spanish artists like Manu Chao or the rising flamenco star Esperanza Fernández. Mixed in you might find international names like Busta Rhymes or the Strokes.

In the past year or so there has been a major multiplication of the number of establishments — ranging from cafeterias to small theaters — that now offer live music. It’s helped that city officials seem to have eased some of the restrictions and aggressive monitoring of clubs. Diego A. Manrique, the music critic of the daily El País and the Spanish Broadcasting Corporation, said: “It’s really still just beginning to take off. While many new places are finding their way, the old standards are adding performances and drawing larger audiences.”

“Madrid is an easy place to get hooked on live music,” says Curro González, an owner of La Boca del Lobo, as the local band Funk Attack clears the stage after midnight on a recent Thursday evening, and the crowd of about 100 drifts toward the bar in this compact multilevel club. He says the live-music scene works because so many of the people involved are industry insiders — producers, agents, music critics and, of course, the artists themselves — and their enthusiasm doesn’t disappear when they leave the office. “People do this because they love the music,” says Mr. González.

It also doesn’t hurt that Madrileños love night life and being out among the masses, so with cover charges that are rarely more than 10 euros ($15 or so) and typically include a drink, a live performance from 10 p.m. to midnight gets people into the bars and into the mood. Many bars also serve relatively good and reasonably priced food, providing the possibility of a one-stop evening. The jazz club Café Berlin has a whole menu of “Bird” salads and “Stormy Weather” sandwiches and offers wine tastings of standout Spanish vintages.

Nor does it hurt that lots of the bars are serendipitously located near — even next door to — each other, creating lively neighborhood vibes that last all night.

Just a block off the Gran Vía is another vortex of Madrid’s music scene. The two-year-old Costello Club has quickly evolved into one of the city’s most popular destinations. Warm amber lighting sets a relaxed mood in the street-level bar that has a chill-out room in the back with deep sofas for lounging and conversation. Downstairs, the long brick-vaulted basement is a ready-made concert area for the nightly rock concerts and jam sessions. Costello’s owners, the brothers Dani and Paco Marín, both worked for recording labels and many musicians come here to drink after finishing their sets elsewhere.

But they don’t always come just to drink. Given the brothers’ background, they bring in the occasional big-name international talent, bands like the Strokes and Keane. But given the club’s small size, these concerts get no promotion and are more or less a gift to Costello customers, Dani Marín says.

Around the corner is El Sol, a joint whose most commonly applied modifier is “mythic.” Open since 1979, it was the backdrop for much of the famous movida madrileña, the post-Franco punk-rock, pop-culture explosion that gave the world Pedro Almodóvar and Agatha Ruiz de la Prada. Even today, the large basement club — with it’s all-white décor glowing with pink neon tubes — still feels like an underground carnival. Nightly concerts can range from rock to pop to salsa or flamenco, and the place rocks to at least 4:30 (on weeknights).

Not far away is Café Berlin, perhaps the city’s most elegantly evocative jazz club, very likely because it opened as one in the 1950s and still retains its Art Deco interior, including the original jazz-inspired frieze behind the stage. Café Berlin is a classic boîte whose owner, Carlos Marquerie, insists that performers be versed in classic jazz. Every other Wednesday is big band night.

“Whatever kind of Latin-flamenco-jazz fusion you want to do,” Mr. Marquerie says, “you won’t do it here unless you can play classic bebop jazz vocals. People come here for jazz-jazz.”

Since they are mostly geared to tourists, many of the city’s flamenco stages, known as tablaos, set their prices back in the days when the dollar was worth something. At 31 euros per person, the 90-minute performances at Casa Patas can seem pricey to someone hoping to catch a song or two before moving on to another club. So now there is Patas Chico, a tiny bar across the street popular among the flamenco crowd; impromptu performances late at night after the shows are not guaranteed, but nor are they uncommon, and a glass of wine is just 2 euros.

Yet another constellation of late-night revelry awaits north of the old center, near the Bernabéu Stadium, where Real Madrid plays its soccer. At Moby Dick, the sleek neon-lit facade conceals a rollicking nautical interior, complete with lighthouse next to the stage. With bands that rock and a youthful crowd that comes to move, it reads Jersey Shore, and is very likely the closest thing Madrid will ever have to the Stone Pony.

So whether you’re looking for mojitos and merengue or cold gin and hot jazz, Madrid has a foolproof recipe for everyone. “Just look around the place,” says Dani Marín as he surveys the wall-to-wall crowd at Costello. “We’re full like this every night.”

MORE INFORMATION

Café Central, Plaza del Ángel, 10; (34-91) 369-41-43; www.cafecentralmadrid.com.

Populart, Huertas, 22; (34-91) 429-84-07; www.populart.es.

La Boca del Lobo, Echegaray, 11; (34-91) 429-70-13; www.labocadellobo.com.

Costello Club, Caballero de Gracia, 10; (34-91) 523-01-74; www.costelloclub.com.

El Sol, Jardines, 3; (34-91) 532-64-90; www.elsolmad.com.

Café Berlin, Jacometrezo, 4; (34-91) 521-57-52; www.cafeberlin.es.

Casa Patas, Cañizares, 10; (34-91) 369-04-96; www.casapatas.com.

Moby Dick, Avenida del Brasil, 5; (34-91) 555-76-71; www.mobydickclub.com.

Subject: Music; Jazz; Flamenco

Location: West Africa

Identifier / keyword: Madrid (Spain) Strokes, The Travel and Vacations Alcoholic Beverages Music Busta Rhymes Art Almodovar, Pedro El Pais Europe Jazz Africa Windows Folk Music Keane PRADA Flamenco (Dance) Furniture Berlin (Germany) REAL MADRID New Jersey Soccer Stone Pony

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 20, 2008

Section: travel

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2222286409

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2222286409?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York T imes Company

Last updated: 2019-05-09

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 147 of 313

Gartner Reports Worldwide PC Market Grew 12 Percent in First Quarter of 2008

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Wireless News ; Jacksonville (Apr 21, 2008).

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

The U.S. results were in line with our expectation, indicating that the PC market was modestly affected by the U.S. recession, although there was no fundamental change in market conditions," said Mika Kitagawa, principal analyst for Gartner s Client Computing Markets group. "The Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) and Asia/Pacific regions showed stronger than expected results, fueled by solid mobile PC growth across most countries.

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WIRELESS NEWS-April 21, 2008-Gartner Reports Worldwide PC Market Grew 12 Percent in First Quarter of 2008 (C)2008 10Meters - http://www.10meters.com

Worldwide PC shipments totaled 71.1 million units in the first quarter of 2008, a 12.3 percent increase from the first quarter of 2007, according to preliminary results by Gartner.

"The U.S. results were in line with our expectation, indicating that the PC market was modestly affected by the U.S. recession, although there was no fundamental change in market conditions," said Mika Kitagawa, principal analyst for Gartner s Client Computing Markets group. "The Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) and Asia/Pacific regions showed stronger than expected results, fueled by solid mobile PC growth across most countries. Latin America continues its rapid growth due to consumer spending."

Gartner said Hewlett-Packard extended its lead during the first quarter of 2008, as its worldwide market share increased to 18.3 percent, compared to a year ago. However, its regional performance was mixed. HP registered growth in EMEA and other regions while it struggled to increase shipment volumes in the U.S. market.

Dell registered its second consecutive quarter of double-digit growth in the worldwide market. Almost all regions grew higher than the regional average. Rapid retail expansion, as well as channel business, contributed to the solid shipment growth.

U.S. PC shipments reached 15.2 million units in the first quarter of 2008, a 3 percent increase from the same period last year. These results were on target with Gartner s latest forecast. "The preliminary results show that the price pressure during the quarter was greater than we expected," Ms. Kitagawa said. "Indications are that the market felt the squeeze in the second half of the quarter. The U.S. market is softening and this can potentially hasten downward price pressure and further intensify competition for the rest of 2008."

"Home mobile PC growth continued to drive U.S. PC growth," Ms. Kitagawa said. Despite declining consumer confidence, U.S. consumers did not put off mobile PC purchases as evidenced by solid mobile growth during the first quarter. This growth was stimulated in part by aggressive price cuts."

Dell extended its lead in the U.S. PC market with its market share reaching 31.4 percent. Dell s channel program, Partner Direct, launched in December 2007, started yielding dividends, as well as its retail expansion. HP registered its lowest year-on-year growth since the Compaq merger in 2003.

Acer is trying to shift its target market from low-end to mid-range systems, and the shift has adversely affected Acer s shipment volume. Gartner s early results indicate that Apple experienced the strongest growth rate among the top 5 vendors in the U.S. market. Apple enjoyed strong retail sales, and there were indications that Apple showed decent growth in the professional market as well.

PC shipments in EMEA totaled 24.8 million units, a 14.9 percent increase from the first quarter of 2007. The strength of unit growth is linked in part to average selling price declines on mobile PCs. The increased competition in the consumer market from vendors such as Dell and Lenovo forced vendors to compete at the lower price points.

In Asia/Pacific, PC shipments reached 19.1 million units in the first quarter of 2008, a 19 percent increase from the same period last year. Although there was caution in the region due to the slowdown in the U.S. economy, it did not generate an adverse pull back effect on PC spending in the first quarter. However, rising regional inflation is a concern for the second quarter if governments cannot bring some price stability.

Latin America PC shipments totaled 6.3 million units, a 19.1 percent increase from the same period last year. The consumer market performed strongly despite seasonality factors such as summer vacations in many South American countries and February s carnival holiday season in Brazil. Strong inroads are being made by local branded vendors who are capitalizing from the booming retail markets. Retailers are providing PC financing in an unprecedented way.

The PC shipments in Japan grew 0.6 percent in the first quarter of 2008, as shipments reached 4.1 million units. The professional PC market grew 3.2 percent while the private market declined 3 percent. One of the growth inhibitors in the private market was the large volume of spring models shipped in late December 2007 from two major vendors. If those models had shipped in the first quarter of 2008, private market growth would have indicated positive growth of low single-digit.

These results are preliminary. Final statistics will be available soon to clients of Gartner's PC Quarterly Statistics Worldwide by Region program. This program offers a comprehensive and timely picture of the worldwide PC market, allowing product planning, distribution, marketing and sales organizations to keep abreast of key issues and their future implications around the globe.

Gartner is an information technology research and advisory company based out of Stamford, Connecticut.

((Comments on this story may be sent to newsdesk@closeupmedia.com))

((Distributed via M2 Communications Ltd - http://www.m2.com))

Publication title: Wireless News; Jacksonville

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 21, 2008

Publisher: Close-Up Media, Inc.

Place of publication: Jacksonville

Country of publication: United States, Jacksonville

Publication subject: Communications

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 210214068

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/210214068?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright M2 Communications Ltd. 2008)

Last updated: 2015-04-11

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; SciTech Premium Collection

Document 148 of 313

Madrid: From jazz to fusion, late and live

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Apr 21, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

It's 11 p.m. in the Plaza del Ángel in Madrid, and the strains of a jazz sax solo can be heard seeping through the plate-glass windows of Café Central. Inside, couples and small groups huddle around the 20 or so tables set amid mirrored pillars that seem to multiply the ambience without blocking the view of the stage.

Just down the street at Populart a crowd of jazz aficionados sip gin and tonics from giant goblets. A few young Turks in leather jackets stick to beer at the far end of the bar as the West Africa-born Justin Tchatchoua and his Afro Group warm everyone up with selections from their new CD of African fusion beats.

Similar scenes — some rowdy, others refined — are replicated nightly all across the city. Within a 10-minute stroll from the Puerta del Sol, the center of historic Madrid, music lovers can take their pick of live jazz, rock, flamenco or folk-rock, or an ever-growing fusion of all the above by top Spanish artists like Manu Chao or the rising flamenco star Esperanza Fernández. Mixed in you might find international names like Busta Rhymes or the Strokes.

In the past year or so there has been a major multiplication of the number of establishments — ranging from cafeterias to small theaters — that now offer live music. It's helped that city officials seem to have eased some of the restrictions and aggressive monitoring of clubs. Diego Manrique, the music critic of the daily El País and the Spanish Broadcasting Corporation, said: "It's really still just beginning to take off. While many new places are finding their way, the old standards are adding performances and drawing larger audiences."

"Madrid is an easy place to get hooked on live music," says Curro González, an owner of La Boca del Lobo, as the local band Funk Attack clears the stage after midnight on a recent Thursday evening, and the crowd of about 100 drifts toward the bar in this compact multilevel club. He says the live-music scene works because so many of the people involved are industry insiders — producers, agents, music critics and, of course, the artists themselves — and their enthusiasm doesn't disappear when they leave the office. "People do this because they love the music," says González.

It also doesn't hurt that Madrileños love night life and being out among the masses, so with cover charges that are rarely more than 10 euros ($15 or so) and typically include a drink, a live performance from 10 p.m. to midnight gets people into the bars and into the mood. Many bars also serve relatively good and reasonably priced food, providing the possibility of a one-stop evening. The jazz club Café Berlin has a whole menu of "Bird" salads and "Stormy Weather" sandwiches and offers wine tastings of standout Spanish vintages.

Nor does it hurt that lots of the bars are serendipitously located near — even next door to — each other, creating lively neighborhood vibes that last all night.

Just a block off the Gran Vía is another vortex of Madrid's music scene. The two-year-old Costello Club has quickly evolved into one of the city's most popular destinations. Warm amber lighting sets a relaxed mood in the street-level bar that has a chill-out room in the back with deep sofas for lounging and conversation. Downstairs, the long brick-vaulted basement is a ready-made concert area for the nightly rock concerts and jam sessions. Costello's owners, the brothers Dani and Paco Marín, both worked for recording labels and many musicians come here to drink after finishing their sets elsewhere.

But they don't always come just to drink. Given the brothers' background, they bring in the occasional big-name international talent, bands like the Strokes and Keane. But given the club's small size, these concerts get no promotion and are more or less a gift to Costello customers, Dani Marín says.

Around the corner is El Sol, a joint whose most commonly applied modifier is "mythic." Open since 1979, it was the backdrop for much of the famous movida madrileña, the post-Franco punk-rock, pop-culture explosion that gave the world Pedro Almodóvar and Agatha Ruiz de la Prada. Even today, the large basement club — with it's all-white décor glowing with pink neon tubes — still feels like an underground carnival. Nightly concerts can range from rock to pop to salsa or flamenco, and the place rocks to at least 4:30 (on weeknights).

Not far away is Café Berlin, perhaps the city's most elegantly evocative jazz club, very likely because it opened as one in the 1950s and still retains its Art Deco interior, including the original jazz-inspired frieze behind the stage. Café Berlin is a classic boîte whose owner, Carlos Marquerie, insists that performers be versed in classic jazz. Every other Wednesday is big band night.

"Whatever kind of Latin-flamenco-jazz fusion you want to do," Marquerie says, "you won't do it here unless you can play classic bebop jazz vocals. People come here for jazz-jazz."

Since they are mostly geared to tourists, many of the city's flamenco stages, known as tablaos, set their prices back in the days when the dollar was worth something. At 31 euros per person, the 90-minute performances at Casa Patas can seem pricey to someone hoping to catch a song or two before moving on to another club. So now there is Patas Chico, a tiny bar across the street popular among the flamenco crowd; impromptu performances late at night after the shows are not guaranteed, but nor are they uncommon, and a glass of wine is just 2 euros.

Yet another constellation of late-night revelry awaits north of the old center, near the Bernabéu Stadium, where Real Madrid plays its soccer. At Moby Dick, the sleek neon-lit facade conceals a rollicking nautical interior, complete with lighthouse next to the stage. With bands that rock and a youthful crowd that comes to move, it reads Jersey Shore, and is very likely the closest thing Madrid will ever have to the Stone Pony.

So whether you're looking for mojitos and merengue or cold gin and hot jazz, Madrid has a foolproof recipe for everyone. "Just look around the place," says Dani Marín as he surveys the wall-to-wall crowd at Costello. "We're full like this every night."

MORE INFORMATION

Café Central, Plaza del Ángel, 10; (34-91) 369-41-43; www.cafecentralmadrid.com.

Populart, Huertas, 22; (34-91) 429-84-07; www.populart.es.

La Boca del Lobo, Echegaray, 11; (34-91) 429-70-13; www.labocadellobo.com.

Costello Club, Caballero de Gracia, 10; (34-91) 523-01-74; www.costelloclub.com.

El Sol, Jardines, 3; (34-91) 532-64-90; www.elsolmad.com.

Café Berlin, Jacometrezo, 4; (34-91) 521-57-52; www.cafeberlin.es.

Casa Patas, Cañizares, 10; (34-91) 369-04-96; www.casapatas.com.

Moby Dick, Avenida del Brasil, 5; (34-91) 555-76-71; www.mobydickclub.com.

Subject: Music; Jazz; Flamenco

Location: West Africa

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 21, 2008

Section: travel

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2222338489

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2222338489?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-10

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 149 of 313

Brazilian Tourism Board Woos (African) American Travelers to Brazil

Author: Kensey, Barbara

Publication info: Chicago Citizen ; Chicago, Ill. [Chicago, Ill]23 Apr 2008: 11.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

The Brazilian Tourism Board (EMBRATUR) is on a mission to increase already soaring international tourism to Brazil - and American tourists are a important target. "We had about 800,000 Americans that flew to Brazil last year," said Marta Suplicy, Brazil's Minister of Tourism. "American tourists are very important to us because they are our largest contingent of tourists."

When, most Americans think Brazil, Rio comes to mind with its world famous beaches, beautiful women, Christ statue and Carnival. But Brazil is so much more. Brazil is a country of great diversity with a range of natural and cultural assets. From Rio de Janeiro to Sao Paulo, from Recife to Salvador de Bahia, every city and state has its own flavor. "Different parts of Brazil are like being in different parts of the world," asserts Suplicy. Some of the reasons the tourism board recommends for making that trip to Brazil include its culture, archaeology and architecture, ecotourism, food, fashion and sports.

Suplicy also recommends the Quilombos, secluded settlements that were formed by fugitive slaves - known as Maroons - and free-born Africans. "(Quilombo) is the place where the slaves ran when they escaped from the farm," she explains. The largest and most famous was Palmares. Some have survived to this day as isolated rural communities. "The government is investing in these places," adds Suplicy.

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Full text:

The Brazilian Tourism Board (EMBRATUR) is on a mission to increase already soaring international tourism to Brazil - and American tourists are a important target. "We had about 800,000 Americans that flew to Brazil last year," said Marta Suplicy, Brazil's Minister of Tourism. "American tourists are very important to us because they are our largest contingent of tourists."

In New York recently to attend the New York Times Travel Show to promote the country with tourism professionals and tour operators, Suplicy shared information on the wide range of activities Brazil has to offer.

When, most Americans think Brazil, Rio comes to mind with its world famous beaches, beautiful women, Christ statue and Carnival. But Brazil is so much more. Brazil is a country of great diversity with a range of natural and cultural assets. From Rio de Janeiro to Sao Paulo, from Recife to Salvador de Bahia, every city and state has its own flavor. "Different parts of Brazil are like being in different parts of the world," asserts Suplicy. Some of the reasons the tourism board recommends for making that trip to Brazil include its culture, archaeology and architecture, ecotourism, food, fashion and sports.

Although the Brazilian Tourism Board, to date, has not segmented American markets, Suplicy says they are willing to look specifically at African Americans for obvious reasons: Brazil is home to the largest African-descent population out of Africa. According to the 2000 Census, there are nearly 11 million people of African descent living in the country. And according to The Travel Industry Association of America's report on minority travelers, African Americans are interested in destinations with culturally relevant activities.

Among the highlights that Suplicy feels might be of particular interest to African Americans is the religious festival, the Festival of the Good Death. Held in honor of the Virgin Mary, the festival takes place annually in August in the small village of Cachoeira in Bahia approximately two hours from Salvador. "You must be more than 80 years old to participate," says Suplicy referring to the Boa Morte Sisterhood, a group of mostly elderly women descended from enslaved Africans that participate in the event. The festival is one of the most representative expressions of religious unification in the country with its merging of Catholicism and Candomblé, an African-Brazilian religion.

Suplicy recalls being in Cachoeira and seeing five busloads of African Americans touring the city. "I was surprised that African Americans discovered that place because it is so remote," she says.

Suplicy also recommends the Quilombos, secluded settlements that were formed by fugitive slaves - known as Maroons - and free-born Africans. "(Quilombo) is the place where the slaves ran when they escaped from the farm," she explains. The largest and most famous was Palmares. Some have survived to this day as isolated rural communities. "The government is investing in these places," adds Suplicy.

One of the country's newest developments is in Alagoas in the Northeast where an American company is building the first Black theme park in the area with Brazilian folklore characters.

Although not culturally specific, Suplicy also recommends Fernando de Noronha, off the northeast coast of Brazil.

"There are 3,500 people on the island," declares Suplicy. "Only 480 people a day can enter. "(It's a) fantastic island because of the fish. (It has) very simple places to stay. There are 5 chalets and 3 luxury apartments."

She also recommends Recife, a city in Northeastern "Brazil called the Venice of Brazil because of its many waterways. "It's a sister to Relinqua where they have crafts - beautiful tours. It's a World heritage site," says Suplicy.

But for many African Americans interested in getting to the "root" of things, she agrees that Salvador de Bahia is the place to go. Known as the epicenter of Black culture in Brazil, it is a reflection of the rich cultural heritage brought from Africa to Brazil and sustained since the 16th century.

Pelhourinho, the slave trade square where slaves were publicly beaten and humiliated, is the heart of the old city of Salvador. With its cobblestone streets, colonial churches and convents, lively music and spicy local cuisine, this World Heritage Site evokes Africa at every turn. "They restored Pelhourinho Square and now they have new hotels there," says Suplicy. "They also have special music programs and wonderful restaurants."

Salvador is also known as the birthplace of Capoeira, a unique mix of Afro-Brazilian dance and martial art, and the Candomblé religion. The city is also noted for an amazing Carnival.

For those more interested in business than pleasure, Brazil has one of the most up-andcoming economies in the world and Sao Paulo is its most important business center. A cosmopolitan city ranked among the world's finest, it offers lots of business opportunities in addition to some of the best restaurants in the country.

Subject: Tourism; Marketing; Tourist attractions; African Americans

Location: Brazil

Company / organization: Name: Brazilian Tourism Board; NAICS: 926110

Ethnicity: African American, Caribbean, African

Publication title: Chicago Citizen; Chicago, Ill.

Volume: 43

Issue: 4

Pages: 11

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 23, 2008

Section: TRAVEL

Publisher: Chicago Weekend

Place of publication: Chicago, Ill.

Country of publication: United States, Chicago, Ill.

Publication subject: African American/Caribbean/African, General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

Document feature: Photographs

ProQuest document ID: 368147055

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/368147055?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Chicago Weekend Apr 23, 2008

Last updated: 2012-06-06

Database: Ethnic NewsWatch

Document 150 of 313

Survivalist Spirit at the Milan Furniture Fair

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Apr 24, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Designers at the Milan Furniture Fair explored how they can help us navigate recession, environmental crisis and design’s neurosis about its role in a saturated consumer culture.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

MILAN

DARK clouds hovered above Milan in mid-April, and not just the ones that drenched the city in rain. Recession. Credit crunch. Real estate slump. None of them boding well for the world’s furniture industry, whose fortunes depend on persuading the rest of us to splurge on things we don’t necessarily need.

Yet there was barely a whiff of pessimism in the frenzied booths of the cavernous Rho-Pero fairgrounds outside Milan, or at the scores of fringe shows spread out across it, as the industry descended on the city for its most important annual event, the Milan Furniture Fair, which ran from April 16 to 21. It attracted a record 348,000 visitors, 28 percent more than last year, according to the organizer, Cosmit.

Nor was there any shortage of new products and ventures. Many if not most of these, of course, were hatched before the recession loomed. But if orders were down last week, no one was admitting it, and manufacturers were quick to argue that any slowdown in the industry’s key markets of North America and Western Europe should be countered by continued growth in emerging markets, such as China and India.

“We’ve had a fantastic start to the year, even in the U.S., but we have to be realistic,” said Piero Gandini, chairman of Flos, the Italian lighting company. “Other sectors are down there, and sooner or later it could affect us, too. But Asia is still strong, and there is great potential there.”

Even the political drama of Silvio Berlusconi’s election victory seemed like a sideshow to the frenetic activity of the city’s design scene, particularly after the fashion designer Miuccia Prada and her industrialist husband, Patrizio Bertelli, swamped the Italian media with their plans to convert a Milan distillery that’s no longer in use into a vast cultural center designed by Rem Koolhaas. (Ms. Prada also upstaged the furniture crowd by giving the chicest party of the week in a spruced-up wing of the distillery, where Damien Hirst, Carsten Höller and other artists dined beneath carnival light sculptures by the German artist Andreas Slominski.)

Back at the fair, there were few remnants of the bling-y braggadocio of last year’s super-size, surreally decorative objects, at least few convincing ones. The Spanish designer Jaime Hayon did his best with a gigantic fantasy aircraft clad in Bisazza mosaic and a quilted leather chair for Established & Sons, as did the Dutch design team Studio Job, with a giant globe sparkling with thousands of Swarovski crystals. Yet even they reflected the darkening mood in more sober pieces for Moooi and Royal Tichelaar Makkum, respectively.

The dominant theme at the fair might best be described as survivalist: in piece after piece, designers explored how they can help us (and themselves) navigate the perils of contemporary life — in particular, the big problems of recession, environmental crisis and design’s neurosis about its role in a saturated consumer culture.

Young designers, especially, responded to these issues by adopting a rugged, improvisational approach to design and a slightly forlorn, goth-inspired style with dark colors and fractured shapes. They made the most of materials by recycling or reimagining them, often in objects with multiple functions. Nacho Carbonell, a 27-year-old Spaniard, transformed abandoned plastic chairs into his Evolution seats-cum-cocoons by adding metal frames and coating them with papier-mâché made from old newspapers. “I wanted to make a seat where you could escape from everything,” he said.

Julia Lohmann, a 30-year-old German designer based in London, set up an impromptu kelp laboratory at the design gallery Nilufar, where she made lamps from strips of seaweed. “It’s such a beautiful material that it seemed a shame not to use it,” said Ms. Lohmann, who discovered it during a residency at Sapporo in Japan last year, and had shipped it over to Milan from there and from Ireland.

And Maarten Baas, also 30, who rose to fame four years ago with his Smoke series of charred wooden furniture, staged one of the liveliest and most talked-about satellite shows, in a grungy Milan garage. (“We’ve left it exactly as we found it — including the girlie calendars on the walls,” he said cheerfully.) One of his menacingly cartoonish furniture pieces for Established & Sons, from a series called the Chankley Bore, shared space with a staccato collage of Chinese wooden furniture for Contrasts Gallery in Shanghai and the garage’s equipment; handwritten captions identified each object.

Even more established figures working with major European manufacturers — Konstantin Grcic for Cassina, Flos and Plank; Hella Jongerius for Vitra; Ronan and Erwan Bouroullec for Kartell and Magis — showed production pieces with a raw, angular aesthetic that suggested the survivalist spirit. The work seemed better suited to a rougher, tougher future than the sleek sci-fi futurism of years past.

A FEW compelling projects struck an escapist rather than survivalist note, including two stunning collections of objects by contemporary designers using historical materials and techniques — one for Mallett, a venerable London antiques dealership with an outpost on Madison Avenue, and the other for the Netherlands’s oldest ceramics manufacturer, Royal Tichelaar Makkum.

So many of Mallett’s customers were expressing interest in contemporary design that it asked two London-based creative directors, Louise-Anne Comeau and Geoff Monge, to commission designers to develop the Meta collection, made with the materials and techniques that Mallett uses to restore 18th- and 19th-century antiques.

The Dutch designer Tord Boontje created a fantastical wardrobe for the line, covered in 616 enameled glass fig leaves. It costs more than $500,000, but each leaf does take six hours to paint. Matali Crasset, the Paris designer, revived the Chinese metal paktong, used in European furniture in the 18th century, for a beautifully simple hanging lantern, and the British team of Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby designed their elegant Cupola table to be made at the Venini glassworks in Venice. The blue-hued steel forged in the Russian city of Tula during the late 1700s for Catherine the Great’s court was reformulated for the Ivo_03 table, designed by the New York architecture firm Asymptote.

One of the showstoppers at the fair was Royal Tichelaar Makkum’s series of Delftware flower pyramids created by four Dutch designers. Each of them — Jurgen Bey, Hella Jongerius, Studio Job and Alexander van Slobbe — drew inspiration from a pair of 17th-century flower towers that Makkum recently restored for the Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam. “The restoration was very complex,” said Jan Tichelaar, a 13th-generation manager of the company. “We learned so much from it that we decided to use our knowledge again.”

Studio Job drew on the eccentricity of the pyramids’ patterns, mixing what it called “happy and horrible” symbols with blasts of industrial smog. Ms. Jongerius depicted the decline of craftsmanship in a tower heavily decorated at the base, with patterns fading towards the top.

It took Makkum’s workforce more than 6,000 hours to make all four pyramids, the most expensive of which — Studio Job’s — costs more than $120,000. Nonetheless, Mr. Tichelaar sold the first full set on the second morning of the fair, and New Yorkers will be able to see them all at Moss in SoHo next month.

Other venerable European manufacturers revived their own, more recent histories by raiding their archives for examples of modernist design (a move that makes commercial sense at a time when 20th-century designs are breaking records at auction, and Europeans are looking for ways to distinguish themselves from their cheaper, increasingly efficient Chinese competitors). Porro, an 83-year-old, family-run Italian company, reintroduced a sleek 1960s trolley by Bruno Munari, and the Finnish company Artek, founded in 1935, reissued mid-20th-century organic modernist pieces, including a table by Tapio Wirkkala and a lounge chair by Kaj Frank.

Another welcome revival came from the French silverware maker Christofle, for which the Italian architect Gio Ponti designed throughout his career. That company is bringing out 25 of the silver objects Ponti created for it between 1928 and 1978, the year before his death. Thesesculptural vases, masks and cutlery were displayed in an exhibition that ran from April 16 to the 21st at the Triennale museum in Milan.

For all its strengths, the 2008 Milan Furniture Fair didn’t quite pull off the combination of stellar commercial and fringe pieces needed for it to be a vintage event, like last year’s. The problem was that too many of the new products seemed, as the New York retailer and design impresario Murray Moss put it, “tentative.” This might have been partly due to recessionary fears, but it was also related to one of the darkest clouds looming over Milan — the furniture industry’s struggle to meet the growing demand for sustainable products.

The fair was awash with “eco” claims, not all of which were convincing. For consumers, “good design” now involves more than simply good looks and functionality; they also want the reassurance that their furniture has been ethically designed, made and shipped, and that they’ll be able to dispose of it responsibly. Retailers like Marks & Spencer in Britain and Wal-Mart in the United States have responded to these concerns, but manufacturers are lagging behind.

“The furniture industry could be a leader in sustainable design, but it hasn’t acted cleverly,” said Mirkku Kullberg, managing director of Artek, one of the few major manufacturers to have embraced sustainability in a serious way. “Many brands talk about it, but there is a risk of them considering it too nonchalantly.”

The very idea of sustainability is problematic for an industry whose history is steeped in materiality and innovation. It also raises practical challenges for existing systems of sourcing, supply, production, shipping and disposal. “Sustainability is a very important development, but it won’t be easy or quick to transform the production process and the final product,” said Matteo di Montezemolo, vice president of the Poltrona Frau Group, the Italian manufacturer, which has opened a factory to develop environmentally responsible materials and techniques.

Still, some companies seem to have a head start. Artecnica, based in Los Angeles, unveiled Tord Boontje’s Witches Kitchen cooking utensils, made from sustainable materials by artisans in Brazil, Guatemala and Colombia. (Mr. Moss was so impressed that he’s rushing them to New York.)

And Artek showed a determined restraint with its small selection of old and new products, framed by a tower of 750 Stool 60s. (Designed 75 years ago by the Finnish architect Alvar Aalto, the 60 has been made in the same factory from wood grown in the same forest ever since.) Nothing tentative about that.

Subject: Distilleries; Design; Survivalists; Recessions; Fashion designers; Sustainability; Sustainable materials

Location: United States--US New York

Company / organization: Name: Established & Sons; NAICS: 337121

Identifier / keyword: Chairs PRADA Art Rawsthorn, Alice Milan (Italy) Furniture Tableware Trade Shows and Fairs Berlusconi, Silvio Vitra North America Home Furnishings United States RESTORATION AND REHABILITATION Prada, Miuccia Design Kartell Far East, South and Southeast Asia and Pacific Areas Mallett Bertelli, Patrizio United States Economy Germany Architecture Rijksmuseum Koolhaas, Rem London (England) APPAREL Hirst, Damien Marks & Spencer Limited RETAIL STORES AND TRADE Japan Wal-Mart Stores Inc Slominski, Andreas Ireland Grcic, Konstantin Antiques Bouroullec, Erwan Recession and Depression China Shanghai (China) Crasset, Matali Carnival (Pre-Lenten) Europe Ponti, Gio Moss, Murray New York International Fringe Festival Netherlands Aalto, Alvar Paris (France) Venice (Italy) Russia New York State Amsterdam (Netherlands) SOHO (NYC) Finland France Great Britain Los Angeles (Calif) Brazil Guatemala Colombia

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 24, 2008

Section: garden

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2222258931

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2222258931?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-09

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 151 of 313

Brazilian Carnival at the Playboy Mansion

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: PR Newswire ; New York [New York]25 Apr 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

SAN DIEGO, April 25 /PRNewswire/ -- Ever dreamed of going to the Playboy Mansion?

Every year, Carnival draws hundreds of thousands of revelers to Brazil. Not to be outdone, San Diego-based Partying for a Purpose presents "Brazilian Carnival," its fifth annual benefit at Hugh Hefner's Playboy Mansion. Partying for a Purpose is the fundraising branch of It's All About the Kids Foundation, an organization that benefits less fortunate children in Southern California and Arizona.

The evening begins promptly at 7 p.m. on Saturday June 28, 2008 and includes hosted cocktails, an exquisite buffet dinner and a silent auction featuring one-of-a-kind items from Planet Frame and other generous donors. In addition, Playboy Playmates will give tours of the lavish mansion grounds and bird sanctuary, and the world-famous Playboy Grotto and Game Room will be open for guests' enjoyment.

Guests will dance all night to the beats of DJ Brett Bartel, DJ Cinful, DJ Lil Ryan, and DJ Duane, and will enjoy a special performance by Kristi Brannon and the Mayan Kingz. 100 Partying for a Purpose Hostesses, body-painted beauties from Foxxy Roxxy Makeup Artistry, Brazilian Samba dancers, Unifier, and Southern California's best go-go dancers will also be in attendance at what is bound to be the party of the year!

Make your dreams come true at this spectacular evening under the Los Angeles stars!

Tickets are $1,250 per person or $10,000 for a table of eight, and also include shuttle service from the host hotels to the Playboy Mansion, as well as a Friday Night Pool Party at the Luxe Hotel on June 27, 2008. RSVP to MansionParty@PartyingforaPurpose.org, or visit www.PartyingforaPurpose.org for more information.

Angela Brannon

Office: 619-235-4524

Cell: 858-229-3663

Email: MansionParty@PartyingforaPurpose.org

SOURCE Partying for a Purpose

Credit: Partying for a Purpose

Subject: Adult entertainment; Magazines; Hotels & motels

Publication title: PR Newswire; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 25, 2008

Dateline: SAN DIEGO

Publisher: PR Newswire Association LLC

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 447451483

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/447451483?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright PR Newswire Association LLC Apr 25, 2008

Last updated: 2010-11-03

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 152 of 313

April 26, 2008 (Page 6 of 46)

Publication info: Tallahassee Democrat (1949-2011) ; Tallahassee, Florida [Tallahassee, Florida]26 Apr 2008: 6.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Tallahassee Democrat (1949-2011); Tallahassee, Florida

Volume: 103

Issue: 117

First page: 6

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 26, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Tallahassee, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Tallahassee, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 0738-5153

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2095932807

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2095932807?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Apr 26, 2008

Last updated: 2018-08-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 153 of 313

Popular tourist city deadly for residents; Soaring homicide rate among the poor of Recife, Brazil, gets little notice. But a team of journalists is trying to change that.

Author: Astor, Michael

Publication info: Los Angeles Times ; Los Angeles, Calif. [Los Angeles, Calif]27 Apr 2008: A.6.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Ines Maria da Silva stares blankly outside her shack as she tells how she lost all five of her sons to the violence that makes Recife the deadliest major city in Brazil.

The first son died 15 years ago in a fight over a girl, another after telling a mob he didn't want a pedophile lynched on his doorstep. The third was stabbed while arguing with a friend and the fourth was shot, mistaken for a thief.

Her last remaining son was felled by a stray bullet as he joined Recife's famous carnival celebrations a year ago.

"I just want to understand, how come no one is punished?" said the diminutive, 68-year-old widow, who cares for six grandchildren and three unemployed daughters and collects cans and bottles, along with garbage to feed her pigs in Recife's squalid Coque shantytown.

"There are people here who just kill for fun," Da Silva said. "Two of the men who killed my sons are my neighbors. If I had somewhere to go I would have moved out a long time ago."

This seaside city, a favorite with European tourists, gets much more attention for the shark attacks that have killed 18 people since 1992 than for its homicides -- at least 2,617 in the metropolitan area last year.

Tourists are warned not to take valuables to the beaches, as in most Brazilian cities, but little is said about the homicide rate, mostly because the violence generally is restricted to the poor areas.

Although Rio de Janeiro's bloody drug war makes international headlines, the homicide rate in this balmy city of 1.5 million is 90.9 per 100,000, more than twice that of Rio, according to the Latin American Technological Network's Map of Violence.

Now, a group of local crime reporters is working to show the human cost of the death toll.

"For 10 years we've been writing the same story, all that changes are the names of victims and the killers and the authorities giving the excuse of the moment," said Joao Valadares. "It's going to change only when people become aware of the situation, not just when it arrives at their door, but when they realize these are people who are dying."

Valadares and three of his colleagues have launched www.pebodycount.com.br, featuring a death-toll counter updated daily with details of homicides across Pernambuco state. As of Monday, this year's count was 1,403. The reporters are working with another website that uses Google Map technology to mark the location of each killing with a red flag.

The group also used red paint to draw outlines of bodies at a month's worth of crime scenes -- 80 in October alone. And the group plans to inaugurate a body count clock Wednesday on one of Recife's busiest avenues, Rua Joaquim Nabuco.

"What's going on here is effectively social cleansing," said Eduardo Machado, one of the group's founders. "The vast majority of victims share the same profile: poor, black men between 15 and 30 living in the outskirts and killed by a .38 revolver."

More than 40% of the homicides are committed by death squads, clandestine groups of off-duty and former police officers who are dedicated to executing undesirable elements, said Jose Luiz Ratton, a sociologist who advises the governor on violence.

Other motivations include rural machismo -- a culture of honor and revenge killings, Ratton said.

"In Rio de Janeiro, the problem is organized crime," he said. "Here, the problem is disorganized crime."

Ratton has compiled a plan for how the state government might begin to combat the violence, but little of it has been implemented.

The killings are front-page news only on the rare occasions when middle- or upper-class people are the victims. But each night's carnage is fodder for the city's three popular TV crime shows, whose announcers compete to narrate the details with a mixture of indignant bombast and gory glee.

The TV crews won't go to the scenes until police have arrived, for fear of being attacked. And shantytown dwellers don't volunteer many details to outsiders.

"Here if you know too much, you die," said a man who would give only the nickname "Biscoito," or biscuit, as he watched the journalists refreshing a faded red silhouette.

This "law of silence" is a frustrating reality for police inspector Cleonice Bezerra de Araujo, a 24-year veteran who deals with three to 11 killings a night as she runs the city's homicide task force.

"Sometimes if it's a child who's killed or a woman, a mother, it will still shake me up. But the sad thing is you get used to it," she said after a mostly fruitless half hour trying to discover how 35-year-old Aldivan Joaquim dos Santos ended up dead on the sidewalk.

Crowds of onlookers gathered and kids on bicycles swerved to avoid the body, spread-eagle on the sidewalk. But even the victim's wife said that she saw nothing.

An hour earlier, Araujo was investigating the case of a man hacked to death with a machete in a mud hut on the outskirts of town. Neighbors there said they didn't know the victim, and couldn't even say how many people lived in the hut with him.

The only lead came as a rumor, that the man had been arrested days earlier for stealing some fruit, casting suspicion on local vigilantes known informally as the "whistle squad."

But like 90% of the killings in Recife, Araujo said the case wouldn't get more than a cursory investigation. The killers probably will never be found, much less punished.

State security secretariat spokesman Joaquim Neto acknowledged that the homicide rate is high but pointed out that killings are down 6% this year, which he attributes to his department's success in dismantling 13 death squads.

He also said Recife's homicide rate was high compared with other cities only because his department counted them more accurately.

"Other states don't count police killings as murders or sometimes they count seven people murdered in a single incident as just one killing," Neto said. "We don't do that."

That's cold comfort for Ines Maria da Silva.

"The police don't do anything about the violence. Maybe they throw people in jail, but when those people get out of jail they have no right to work, so they rob," she said wearily.

Credit: Associated Press

Illustration

Caption: PHOTO: EVERYDAY VIOLENCE: Residents of the poor Coque neighborhood of Recife, Brazil, stand around the body of 21-year-old Thiago Franklino de Lima on Jan. 22.; PHOTOGRAPHER:Eraldo Peres Associated Press; PHOTO: A DEADLY CITY: A poor neighborhood flanks the Capibaribe River in Recife. The seaside city of 1.5 million has a homicide rate of 90.9 per 100,000, more than twice that of Rio de Janeiro, whose bloody drug war makes international headlines.; PHOTOGRAPHER: Eraldo Peres Associated Press; PHOTO: NO WITNESSES: A woman covers the body of 35-year-old Aldivan Joaquim dos Santos in the Santo Amaro slum in Recife. Even the victim's wife told police officers that she saw nothing.; PHOTOGRAPHER: Eraldo Peres Associated Press

Subject: Organized crime; Violence; Cities

Publication title: Los Angeles Times; Los Angeles, Calif.

Pages: A.6

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 27, 2008

Dateline: RECIFE, BRAZIL

Section: Main News; Part A; National Desk

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Los Angeles, Calif.

Country of publication: United States, Los Angeles, Calif.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 04583035

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 422192253

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/422192253?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright (c) 2008 Los Angeles Times)

Last updated: 2017-11-14

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 154 of 313

Q1 2008 FEMSA Earnings Conference Call - Final

Publication info: Fair Disclosure Wire ; Linthicum [Linthicum]28 Apr 2008.

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Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

OPERATOR: Good morning, everyone, and welcome to FEMSA's First Quarter 2008 Earnings Results Conference Call. As a reminder, today's conference is being recorded, and all participants are in a listen-only mode. At the request of the Company, we will open the conference up for question and answers after the presentation.

During this conference call, management may discuss certain forward-looking statements concerning FEMSA's future performance and should be considered as good-faith estimates made by the Company. These forward-looking statements reflect management's expectations and are based upon current available data. Actual results are subject to future events and uncertainties, which can materially impact the Company's actual performance.

At this time, I'd like to turn the conference over to Mr. Javier Astaburuaga, FEMSA's CFO. Please go ahead, Javier.

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA, CFO, VP - FINANCE, FEMSA: Good morning, everyone. Welcome to FEMSA's first quarter 2008 earnings conference call. Joining me today is Juan Fonseca and Genaro Estrada, both of whom you know well.

Our strong performance for the first quarter was driven by double-digit growth in all our business units. FEMSA Cerveza's operating results were driven by solid volume trends, stable pricing dynamics in the key Mexican markets and contained operating expenses, combined with an easy comparison base from first quarter '07.

Coca-Cola FEMSA continued its positive momentum across its divisions, with Mexico accounting for half of the incremental revenues and more than a third of the incremental profits during the quarter. And, finally, Oxxo continued delivering strong growth in almost every key market after citing a strong first quarter 2007.

Altogether, FEMSA consolidated revenues grew 8%, operating income growth approached 20%, and net majority income increased [13]%. I would like to remind everyone that beginning this quarter, according to Mexican FRS, we have discontinued the use of inflation accounting with the exception of Argentina, Venezuela, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua.

For comparison purposes, the figures for 2007 have been restated in Mexican pesos with purchasing power as of December 31st, 2007, and our results for 2008 are in current pesos. Moving on to our business units, FEMSA Cerveza delivered a solid quarter, reflecting resilient consumer demand trends, a favorable comparison base, a generally mild winter in Mexico and improved pricing dynamics versus the first quarter of 2007.

Beer volume in Mexico increased 7.1% and our exports delivered strong growth for nearly 13% against a backdrop of a softening U.S. economy and a declining imported beer category. In Brazil, the year was off to a slow start, but picked up during March, growing 2.9% for the quarter. Cool weather and the fact that the Easter holiday took place early, unusually close to the Christmas season, impacted volume growth across beverage categories in that market.

However, our Sol brand again drove the majority of our incremental volume, continuing on the right track with the rest of the brands also performing well. In terms of Mexico pricing, we were allowed a broad price increase at the end of '07 and through the first quarter, representing approximately 4.5% on average. Unit price in Mexico increased by 1.2% in the quarter, on top of a 1% increase achieved in the first quarter of last year, when the rest of the industry lost significant pricing.

In Brazil, revenue per hectoliter decreased 3% as price increases were implemented late in the quarter and the sales of some incremental off-trade volumes was shifted from us to the Coke bottling system. As for exports, revenue per hectoliter in Mexican pesos declined 4.5% as a strong peso more than offset unit price growth of 0.9% in dollar terms.

This growth was driven by a positive mix effect in the U.S. as higher-priced Dos Equis contributed approximately a third of our incremental sales in that key market. Other income from operations increased 6.4%, reflecting an improvement in packaging sales, as well as the first portion of the distribution of rights payment received from Heineken USA in relation with our new 10-year agreement.

Cost of sales increased 6.4%, in line with volumes. Increased prices for grains were offset by [varied] fixed-cost absorption, a strong Brazilian real as applied to our dollar cost, our aluminum hedges and lower costs associated with glass bottles as compared to last year, when we have one furnace down for maintenance and therefore had to buy larger amounts of our bottle requirements from third parties.

Gross profit increased [72%] for the quarter and gross margin improved by 10 basis points. Income from operations for beer increased 35.7% to MXN673 million in the first quarter. Selling expenses were stable as a percentage of total revenues, while operating expenses declined, driven by lower administrative expenses, mainly.

Higher amortization was largely driven by higher volumes and the amortization of expenses related to our direct retail distribution. And operating margin expanded by 160 basis points, to reach 7.4% of total revenues.

Summing up the quarter for FEMSA Cerveza, in spite of the adverse raw material environment and the slowdown of the U.S. economy, our continuing efforts to strengthen our competitive position and our brand equity across our portfolio and across our markets are helping us deliver results in a challenging environment.

Turning to our soft drink business, Coca-Cola FEMSA delivered another quarter of double-digit growth at the EBIT level, lapping a high comparison base. Cost benefits resulting from lower sweetener prices, mainly in Mexico, combined with operating leverage driven by a strong top-line resulted in 15.7% EBIT growth and an expansion of 130 basis points in the operating margin.

Brand Coca-Cola accounted for more than two-thirds of our incremental volumes. The top line was driven by an increase in average prices across all three divisions during the quarter. In the key Mexican market, beginning in February, we started distributing Jugos del Valle in the traditional channels and so far we are very pleased with the results. The Jugos del Valle portfolio contributed 25% of our incremental volumes with better pricing than the rest of the portfolio.

In Mexico, average prices were up 1.8%, including our fast-growing jug water and grew 2.1% ex jugs. Volume growth with price improvements, combined with lower raw material costs and stable operating expenses resulted in an 11% operating income increase in the quarter.

Our balanced geographic portfolio continues to deliver incremental profits, coming from all three divisions. Mexico accounted for approximately 40%, while Latin Central and Mercosur each contributed approximately 30%.

If you were unable to participate in Coca-Cola FEMSA's conference call on Friday, you can access a replay of their webcast for additional details on the results. Finally, at Oxxo, same-store sales maintained a positive trend and grew 5% for the quarter, reflecting strong traffic growth of 14.5% and a reduction in the average ticket of 8.2%.

As we anticipated in the fourth quarter of 2007, the reduction in the average ticket is being driven mainly by a migration from consumer purchases of prepaid cellular phone cards, for which we book the full sale price as revenue to the new electronic card time purchase, for which we only book the amount of our commission, as opposed to the full amount of the recharge.

For comparability purposes, if we booked the full amount of the electronic recharges, Oxxo's average ticket would have grown more in line with past quarters' performance. That is, in the low single digits.

In terms of new store openings, we opened 73 units during the period for a total of 698 net openings in the last 12 months, and we are confident that we will close the year with more than 700 net new stores in Mexico.

Revenues increased 16.4% during the quarter, reflecting strong growth among all product categories. Gross margin improved 100 basis points, driven in part by the change in the way we book prepaid cellular airtime, as I just described, as well as by the implementation of improved pricing strategies and promotions and by a strong performance from high-margin categories, such as coffee and alternative beverages.

Operating expenses increased slightly above revenues due to higher operating costs at the store level, mainly energy and maintenance related, as well as the initial expenses related to the strengthening of Oxxo's organizational infrastructure that will be carried out through the year. Operating margin expanded by 60 basis points, to reach 3.5% of revenues.

Summing it up and in line with our long-term message, we begin the year with conviction that our integrated beverage platform once again will deliver results in a year that is expected to be a challenging one. And, with that, I would like to open the call for your questions. Operator, please?

OPERATOR: (OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS). We'll take our first question from Lauren Torres with HSBC.

LAUREN TORRES, ANALYST, HSBC: Good morning. Beer volume in Mexico increased just over 7% in the quarter. Can you give us a sense of how much of this growth came from healthy demand, rather than favorable weather and the Easter shift? I'm just trying to get a sense of consumer sentiment right now in Mexico.

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: It is very hard to put specific numbers on that, but just by looking at the performance of the beer business in '07 and the relative numbers for the whole industry, our sense is that definitely the quarter was helped a lot by the easy comparisons of '07. But, at the same time, we were cautious at the end of last year, since the industry started taking price and also the concerns of any effect on the slowdown of the U.S. economy, and I would say that in both fronts we feel comfortable so far.

We think that the way the pricing increase was executed, taking care with the price increase on the most price-sensitive SKUs and also taking into account the strength of our brands in the different regions, we feel that the consumer has been accepting very well the price increase. Nevertheless, again, the terrible weather last year now was very different and we have a very mild winter, so we are definitely seeing some of the volumes that we were able to sell on the first quarter being driven by that weather effect.

So I wouldn't dare to put a specific number on that. We are confident that, looking at the rest of the year, we will also be able to have a good performance for the industry as a whole and we have reiterated that we think that volumes in the industry should perform at least slightly above GDP growth for the whole country, once we implemented a price increase which is slightly ahead of inflation.

So, all in all, whether this year is good news as opposed to last year, which was bad, but we will have to continue looking at the performance in the coming months, Lauren.

LAUREN TORRES: Is your pricing so far, though, all in place, or there's more to go with respect to pricing this year?

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: The pricing that we took, it's pretty much what we think is good for the whole year, but we will continue to monitor all aspects of the business, competitive dynamics, raw material pressures, acceptance of consumer for the price increase we just put in place. So, as any time, we will look for more tactical opportunities going forward, but I would say that the big one is already in place.

LAUREN TORRES: All right, thank you.

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: Thank you.

OPERATOR: And we have a question from Andrea Teixeira with JPMorgan.

ANDREA TEIXEIRA, ANALYST, JPMORGAN: Hi, good morning, everyone. Congratulations on the results. I just want -- my one question would be regarding the amortization, you commented on the FEMSA Cerveza results that you had a positive impact of reducing the amortization of the ERP system, but at the same time the amortization goes up one year after the other. So can you just comment how we can reconcile that and how much of an impact that had in the gross margin? And, if you can, elaborate also on the grain impact. I would appreciate it. Thank you.

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: Sure. Yes, first off, as we've informed in past quarters, we basically ended the amortization of the ERP and the increase in the amortization for the quarter, which is slightly above the I would say more stable level, which would be maybe 6% to 6.5% of revenues now that being slightly above 7%, a part of it has a lot to do with the mix of volumes and the high growth of volumes we had for the quarter because, as you know, some of the contracts we have with some retailers, we amortized a component of the help or support we give to some retailers, driven by volume. So as volumes grows, also that line starts to grow.

And, also, some of it has to do with the kind of support, special support we give in terms of fixed support to some retailers, the ones which are more collaborative to FEMSA Cerveza's strategy. And the thing with grains, the question regarding grains, we have stated in the past that we have been, as anyone in the industry has, been looking at severe, high prices, increases all across the board, and we have stated that we feel comfortable with levels within Mexico of around 25% to 30% and in Brazil something slightly above 50%. And we think that as the year progresses, we will be able to manage, I would say, slightly above those levels and maybe 3%, 5%, 6% above the numbers I just mentioned.

We are not concerned, looking at the perspectives of supply in terms of having problems with supply. We have guaranteed supply for basically all our needs for the rest of the year and we are already working, also, longer term into 2009 and 2010 in some geographies. But, so far, if the perspective on grains has changed, it has changed a little bit to the negative in the last couple of months, but still nothing that changes in a dramatic way the numbers we've been sharing with you in the past, Andrea.

ANDREA TEIXEIRA: Okay, and regarding Brazil, we saw on that increasing prices and then I believe you guys also followed and volumes were very timid and I believe also it's going to happen with AmBev. Can you comment on if the other -- you see like the competitive environment getting better if the other brewers are also increasing prices, following pricing, after the summer? Or if you're going to take additional pricing in Brazil, given that your cost pressure is even higher?

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: We've increased prices late in the quarter in Brazil and, again, it's a little bit too early to tell if consumer acceptance is there. As I said, Brazil was due to a low start for the year and a number of reasons for that. So I think it's going to take at least a couple of months to really have a good read on what happened on the first quarter in terms of the different elements that put pressure on volumes.

But most of the price increase that we were thinking of taking in the industry, I think we've done that in the late first quarter, but as in Mexico we will continue to monitor any opportunity that we may have. And in respect to the pricing dynamics on the rest of the competitors, I mean, competition is as intense as ever, but I think that we are so far looking at kind of a rational behavior of the other competitors also in terms of trying to compensate on the pricing lever partially, at least, some of the pressures that everybody is experiencing, at least on the grain side.

ANDREA TEIXEIRA: Okay, thank you very much.

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: Thank you.

OPERATOR: We'll take our next question from Robert Ford with Merrill Lynch.

ROBERT FORD, ANALYST, MERRILL LYNCH: Hey, good morning, everybody. Javier, I just wanted to get you to kind of expand on that amortization question. My understanding is that increasingly you've been moving some of the amortization of exclusives into selling expenses to provide more support with the [training]. And to see the big increase was kind of surprising.

What's the specific number in terms of the amortization of ERP in both periods? And, am I correct in my understanding that you are providing additional selling support, which you expense, and there is a component which is capitalized? I'm curious, what other marketing expenses are also capitalized?

JUAN FONSECA, CORPORATE FINANCE DIRECTOR, FEMSA: Hi, Bob. This is Juan. On the amortization thing, you're right, we have been shifting, as more of these points of sale are being opened and we have talked about how rent actually is playing a bigger role, because in many of these cases we are paying the rent for these outlets, and that obviously flows through the income statement in real time.

But, at the same time, it's the incremental that has been affected, but there are a lot of points of sale with whom we have more conventional agreements. And, to Javier's point, the amortization component of let's say the upfront discounts that are given and then are amortized over an average life of three years is that continues to be a big part of the way that we interact with the trade that sells our brands on an exclusive basis, in some cases.

So I think this quarter, it shows a little bit of a jump, but you shouldn't expect this to be a new level of amortization, I think is the main message. We can follow-up up I think offline, if you want, in terms of exact numbers for any one of these on past quarters, but generally the message is this is not a new level. It has to do with a volume peak, it has to do with the fact that a lot of these relationships are still based on the let's say more traditional agreements, and that's pretty much it.

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: Yes, and as I said, Bob, also, depending on how the mix of not only volume geographically and SKU, but also in terms of the performance of the retailers -- and of course we have been more successful, as I have stated in the past, in order to align interests with some of those retailers of volume growth in those challenges are higher than in the rest.

But if you look at amortization as a percentage of revenues and if you look at, I would say, a couple of years, or three years, 8% levels. And then as the ERP amortization finalized we went down to something like 6.5%, maybe, the quarter is slightly above that. It's a little bit above 7%, but, as Juan is saying, this is not like this is going to start to pick up going forward in a significant way. I would tell you that within the year, I would say that we will go back maybe to the 6.5% to 7%, tops, percentage once the year progresses.

ROBERT FORD: Okay, that's helpful. And then I'll look forward to getting a [little bit] of detail offline. Thank you.

JUAN FONSECA: Absolutely.

OPERATOR: And we'll take our next question from Reinaldo Santana, with Deutsche Bank.

REINALDO SANTANA, ANALYST, DEUTSCHE BANK: Yes, good morning, Javier and everyone. My question relates to your comment when you talked about the selling expenses at Oxxo that is partly related to the strengthening of Oxxo's organizational structure. If you could expand a little bit more on this initiative, and also if you could comment on the magnitude of the price increase that you implemented in Brazil late in the quarter. Thank you.

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: Yes, Reinaldo, how are you? We have also shared this idea in the past in terms of Oxxo having a lot of projects in the pipeline not only for '08, but also for '09, and we have described some of those. One, which is going to demand some incremental headcount, has a lot to do with developing the capabilities and the competencies at the region and [plaza] city level in terms of the replenishment capabilities. We are in the middle of rolling out an IT solution, combined with new processes, in order to streamline replenishment capabilities all across the supply chain.

So that is a project that will demand a number of people working head to head with the central office and the city plaza level guys in order to precisely build that infrastructure and those capabilities. That's a good example of what do we mean by saying that we're going to strengthen the organization and bring more people into the Company.

Another big initiative also, which is now in the still phase of development and going into the testing, is the new point of solution infrastructure, the new IT solution for what's going out at the store level. And that is going to be a new generation solution and it also will require by the end of the year to have onboard a lot of people knowledgeable about the solution and with the right training in order to implement the solution in a speedy way into 2009.

So those are only two examples of what we mean by strengthening Oxxo's organization and why we're doing that? We're basically doing that because we think that we need to continue to reinforce the very basic backbone of the business in terms of IT, technology infrastructure and capabilities of the whole organization. And I will ask Juan to comment on the Brazil piece.

JUAN FONSECA: Hey, Reinaldo. On the pricing in Brazil, as you know, we basically are price takers or price followers in Brazil. We follow very closely the activities of the industry leader and then we adjust based on that.

In this case, we perhaps took a little bit longer in terms of getting a read first of what it is that they were doing. Obviously, in some cases, they moved one of their leading brands, but not the other, or not both, and we have to determine our price gaps, what they are and what they should be, vis-a-vis both of these brands.

But I think you can generally assume that it's inflation, basically, that we've taken, that we have now moved late in the quarter and that we're basically going to be following the trends of the industry leader.

REINALDO SANTANA: Thank you.

OPERATOR: (OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS). We'll go next to Tufic Salem with Credit Suisse.

TUFIC SALEM, ANALYST, CREDIT SUISSE: Yes, good morning, everyone. Congratulations on the results. I wanted to ask about Brazil, if you can give us a better sense on how to read this volume. I understand it may be a little bit too early to get a sense of what's going on with the volume performance, but I wanted to get a sense whether, when we look at the KOF numbers and when we look at these overall numbers for FEMSA, if you can comment a little bit on how we should read this and also if you're seeing in April a significant change of what you saw in the first quarter to try to get a better sense of what's going on in the industry.

And, finally, if you can just follow-up on the comment of the additional expenses at Oxxo, if you see this as reinforcing the infrastructure development that's going to take more people, is that more expenses on a one-time basis for this year, or is that just more people on an ongoing basis?

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: Sure, Tufic. First, on Brazil, as I said on the opening remarks, it's still a little bit of, I would say, too little time to tell because of things which are making numbers not pretty much comparable. Weather had an impact, the timing of the Carnival had an impact. Price increase of the industry was deployed in a different way.

We're looking at the phenomena in Brazil which tells us that consumers are having now, I would say, more options to, for example, buy durable goods, as opposed to immediate-consumption consumer goods. We are cautious still to make a statement there in terms of if immediate-consumption consumer goods are being hit by that or not. Definitely, the quarter had numbers which were below our original estimates and that's very clear and I'm sure not only for us but for everybody down there.

And what I think, it's still a little bit too early to tell, because, again, it is very, very tricky trying to put numbers on consumption of people because of timing issues on Carnival or on weather. So I think we will need to wait a little bit more going into the next two to three months to say if there is something going on down there different to what we are just describing.

But as you are pointing out right, there is kind of a slowdown on volumes, at least for the main categories of beverages in Brazil for the first quarter, and hopefully we are going to look at that rebounding in the next months.

In terms of the additional expenses for Oxxo, these are projects -- what I've been describing is basically projects which are aimed, as I said, to reinforce the capabilities and the infrastructure both in process and in IT solutions for the business. These are not projects which are defined and programmed to take place on a one-year basis. These are basically projects that go all the way from 24 to 36 months from conception to really deploying it over the close to 600 stores in Mexico.

So we tend to look at them as incremental for the next couple of years and we're going to build a base during the rest of the year and I will hope to maintain maybe that level into 2009. And then I don't have really a visibility to say if this is going to be a slope which we will be coming down in 2010. And that will depend a lot on the amounts of projects that we would like to put out there. Given the confidence that, of course, we are very, very comfortable with value added and in terms of the value generation or creation that these projects are going to have for the business for the long term, we wouldn't be doing that if we didn't think that way.

So it's not like a one year and that's it, it's more like a two to two and a half on basically the two projects I just described, plus another two or three which are not as big and that would be my comments on that, Tufic.

TUFIC SALEM: Okay, thank you. And is there any way you can give us a sense of what the performance of beer was between the KOF territories and the rest of the system?

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: The split in Brazil that we tend to look at is not that. We follow that, but we look more in terms of competitive dynamics. We like to look at the business compared with what's going on in the beer industry in Brazil, so we may have some one or two territories of Coca-Cola FEMSA which are performing better or worse.

I can say that there is not a significant performance which can be explained by we being the distributors at KOF or having some of another friend bottlers doing the job. It's much more driven by competitive dynamics, the strength of our brands, and things like that

OPERATOR: We'll take our next question from Carlos Laboy, Credit Suisse.

CARLOS LABOY, ANALYST, CREDIT SUISSE: Good morning, Javier.

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: Hi, Carlos.

CARLOS LABOY: Javier, your operators are doing a great job of creating shareholder value. My question is, how are you and the Board of Directors evolving your thinking about the other levers that create shareholder value. What are the merits, for example, why a very aggressive share buyback program that would obviously be beneficial to the voting trust members, as well as shareholders? Why wouldn't that be more aggressively pursued?

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: Yes, sure, Carlos. We have gone to the shareholders meeting -- I don't recall for how many years -- just to get authorization and to be ready to execute share buybacks programs if we thought it was convenient for the Company for the time being, and we have concluded that this has not been the case.

And if you look at the Company at some point in time, and I will use 2002 maybe as a good example in which the Company basically did not have any debt on the balance sheet, but, all in all, in the next 12 months we've basically got something like 4 billion in debt because of the acquisition of Panamco and the 30% buyback of the beer assets.

So today we are basically at one time net debt to EBITDA, which is, I would say, conservative, but still not so inefficient that they [will tell] us that because of financial structure considerations it will be a good idea. We have been having a revaluation, I think, of the share and that is very good news, I think, for all shareholders, because of the performance of the business and some of that rerating we tend to believe because of more people understanding the special story of FEMSA, being a different company.

And, for the time being, what we have also, as in the past, just assured, is that we have some flexibility to execute share buybacks, if that is the case that we think would be more in line with creating shareholder value for the long term. And that has a lot to do with potential opportunities that we keep on looking from time to time and that we try to develop and foster. And, of course, we do not have the capability to say if some of those opportunities are going to materialize, and when. So we will have to, again, keep some of that flexibility, even though in the short term some people can think that we should be doing something else.

Believe me, we are taking into consideration things like share buybacks as a way to create shareholder value, but, again, we are much more focused on having the financial flexibility to address market opportunities that we may have in terms of acquisitions going forward. So this is kind of a moving target. What I can reiterate to you, as we have said in the past to most of our shareholders, is that we are we are not a Company which will go into a highly inefficient financial structure for the medium term.

If we find ourselves in a situation in which we cannot find good value opportunities for the long term and we are getting into territories in which the financial structure of the Company gets to a highly inefficient point, of course share buybacks is an alternative. There are some other alternatives, special dividends, or whatever. So that will be my comment, Carlos.

CARLOS LABOY: Javier, when you look at InBev, for example, trading up, what, 15% in two days after announcing a more aggressive buyback, or, this quarter, Anheuser-Busch getting all its EPS growth from share buybacks, or even Modelo now talking about share buybacks, I mean, it seems -- or all the food companies in the U.S., for that matter. It just seems that it's a very aggressive theme and a way of adding shareholder value and you're staying away from that. Does it worry that you may need to look at this a lot more closely?

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: No. I mean, I respect a lot what other people are doing and you're putting in the same basket, I think, companies which I would say have varied and quite significant differences in terms of managing shareholder value creation and using financial levers to do so. I couldn't think of a more diverse universe of people as the one you just mentioned.

But what I'm concerned, really, Carlos, is again to have a good read on the probabilities to be able to allocate capital in shareholder value creation opportunities for the business. That has a lot to do with acquisition. That has a lot to do with using the financial structure of the business to have a good cost of capital and to return value to the shareholders. And if you look at the whole history of FEMSA, at least in the past 10 years, I think, or more recently, in the past three to four, I think that we have found a good balance in doing so.

Our challenge going forward is to keep in mind I would say the concerns that you are expressing and, at the same time, putting them and facing them with the opportunities that we have still to make this a bigger and more profitable Company. So we're very carefully looking at what everybody is doing, but still we're playing our own game here.

CARLOS LABOY: Thank you, Javier.

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: Thank you, Carlos.

OPERATOR: And we'll take our next question from Lore Serra with Morgan Stanley.

LORE SERRA, ANALYST, MORGAN STANLEY: Good morning. Yes, I wanted to go back to the beer company. One clarification, you mentioned in the opening comments and I think I might have missed it, that there were some Heineken payments in the other revenue. Can you just confirm that and tell us what they were and whether they'll be recurring in 2008?

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: Yes, Lore, yes. The payment that we have got from the 10-year commercial agreement, which has a couple of payments all along those years, we will be reflecting those on a quarter-by-quarter basis, so the amount that we have reflected in the first quarter will also continue to flow on the second, third and fourth and then it will lap going into 2009.

LORE SERRA: I'm sorry, in 2009 it ends?

JUAN FONSECA: We still get it, except you won't see the incremental, right? It's smoothed over the five years and then there's another payment equivalent, so basically you can assume that for the next 10 years that will be in place, except you will only see it make a big difference this year during the four quarters. The exact amount is something that we haven't really disclosed, Lore.

LORE SERRA: Okay, understood. And in terms of the raw materials pressure that you've described in Brazil and Mexico, how much of that is in the first quarter numbers and how much of that is yet to be seen into the second, third, fourth quarters?

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: Maybe half of that has already been seen in the first quarter. That's the best guess I can have on the top of my mind, Lore.

LORE SERRA: Okay, so then the other question I have, and my last question, is we saw higher pricing for your competitor domestically this quarter. And, sometimes, one quarter can have wrong trends if there are mix differences, et cetera. But it was a pretty big difference, so I'm wondering if you intentionally took a price increase below your competition, and, if so, would you sort of tap it up? I mean, some of it I guess may be timing, because maybe you did it a bit later than them, but if my math is right, they did 8.5 and you did 5. That's a pretty good gap. Can you give us your perspective on that?

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: I mean, the price increases we took on average and we monitored markets in order to make these statements, is pretty much similar to the competitor. It's bigger in some cases and it's smaller in some others because of competitive dynamics. But the numbers on the quarter tend to be radically different for the two companies, as they were in first quarter '07, in which our competitor's pricing took a severe dip of around 4% and we grew 1%.

So if you see those comparisons, taking those numbers out of the first quarter and going into second quarter, my guess, because of what we're looking at the market, both performance and -- I mean, the performance of both companies in terms of the price, front line, is going to be very, very similar.

LORE SERRA: Okay, so what you're saying is there are some differences in terms of the comparison to first quarter, but, as you see it, both you and Modelo have put through something like 5%, and that's what we should see going forward?

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: That's exactly what we're saying, yes.

LORE SERRA: Okay, thank you.

OPERATOR: And we'll take our next question from Alex Robarts with Santander.

ALEX ROBARTS, ANALYST, SANTANDER: Hi, everybody. Just back to the beer assets. One of the trends here is obviously Brazil pricing and you've made it clear that you are a taker and have lagged some of the AmBev movements, but I guess it was the other piece that I was interested in, which is the sale of the off-trade volumes going to the Coke system. Can you give us some color behind that, please?

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: Sure, sure. We're still two years after acquiring the business, and this is something very similar to our experience when we bought the Coca-Cola FEMSA franchise in 2003, we're still doing some, I would say, fine-tuning on both pricing architecture and the go-to-market footprint. And the explanation on the price change is due to change of sales coming from us, going to bottlers, has a lot to do with changes that we're still implementing in terms of how to serve better the [modern trade].

So, in some cases, we have been serving directly and, that is, Kaiser has been serving directly some chains in some geographies, basically on the modern trade. And, as time has been progressing and we have been creating products, also, how to better serve those customers, we have been transferring some of that volume and now to be taken care of directly by the bottlers, as opposed to by Kaiser.

And that creates the effect of now having a lower price per hectoliter, but, again, now we're not incurring some of the expenses that we used to in order to serve those customers. So that's basically the explanation behind the comment of the volume change, Alex.

ALEX ROBARTS: And do you feel like you're at the end of the process, or perhaps in the middle? I mean, do we take this as kind of maybe there's going to be a slight downward shift in the selling prices?

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: No, we're basically in the last stages of it. I mean, we started as we took the business with very, very small actions there and we have taken in the last couple of years, but again, in this first quarter we took some decisions that I would say not ended the process, but we are in the final stages of that. I would say in the next couple of quarters, maybe, we'll be ending that strategy, Alex.

ALEX ROBARTS: Thank you, and just to understand what I assume will be an interesting, let's say, rollout or new push into Minas Gerais, as you have the infrastructure set up with Coke FEMSA in that state, have we seen some of the spend related to a Kaiser, Sol push there? Will there be one, or will it just kind of be something that you'll go to and handle on kind of on a rolling basis?

JUAN FONSECA: You're saying in terms of will Remil represent an increase in selling behind the brand? Is that?

ALEX ROBARTS: Well, I mean, perhaps specifically, will we see some spend associated with that whole territory and the brand rollout? That's right.

JUAN FONSECA: No, I think the levels of spending behind the brand in Brazil, as you know, have been high for a number of quarters. We are very consciously deploying a good chunk of resources to both of our brands -- well, to the whole portfolio, but obviously Kaiser representing still a big part of the volume and, of course, Sol being the flagship to be. The levels of spending are high, but there's really no special amount that is being allocated to Minas Gerais.

We do have high expectations for that territory this year in terms of bringing it into our own hands, but, no, you [shouldn't see] any change in the trend of SG&A in Brazil because of that.

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: Yes, we have not held back any dollars or reals of investment in Minas Gerais because this was not our operations. On the other hand, because of the incorporation of Remil, we're sure that because of the focus that we're going to have on that business in the short term, even though we're going to have to make a lot of adaptations and changes to reflect Coca-Cola FEMSA's best practices and to capture the obvious synergies that exist in the territory, just because of the focus that we're going to have on the territory because of this, we're confident that we may have some short-term boost of performance on volumes, but not due to the fact that we're going to put more dollars in terms of marketing or distribution capabilities on things like that.

ALEX ROBARTS: Great, and just the very last thing is the admin expenses, sorry, in the beer assets, noticing that 5% drop year on year, interested by that and maybe could you give us some color behind that?

JUAN FONSECA: Well, we talked about the ERP system, amortization being done and just general efficiencies. I mean, the idea, Alex, is to continue to spend behind the brands, but we need to fund that with efficiencies in different parts of the value chain and the admin is one place where we're being able to get some of that.

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: And some of that also, Alex is we talked about that last year being a very tough year because of pricing, raw material and competitive dynamics and the results of beer were not the ones that we at the beginning of the year imagined. So some of the efficiency programs that the beer business put in place last year, some of that is rolling into 2008 just because of the timing of circumstances on when those efficiency programs were put in place.

As additional ones are also put in place, that is basically -- some of the reduction in admin has a lot to do with streamlining parts of the organization at the beer business during '07 and now in '08.

ALEX ROBARTS: So you think these levels as a percentage of sales might be the more indicative going forward in beer?

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: The levels, if you look at absolute terms, you may be looking at -- there are some expenses which have something to do with seasonality also, but definitely the trend of the expense would be coming down or at least growing significantly less than the volume or revenue line.

ALEX ROBARTS: Okay, thank you.

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: Thank you.

OPERATOR: We'll take our next question from Jose Yordan with UBS.

JOSE YORDAN, ANALYST, UBS: Good morning, everyone. A quick question on Oxxo. You had been sort of guiding to -- despite the fact that margins have been rising over the past year 100 basis points or so, you had been guiding to maybe half of that for 2008, and I was just wondering if that was consistent with what you were telling us, if that already reflected the expectation of these additional projects and so forth? Or do these projects we're talking about this morning lead you to be even more cautious on the expansion of margins for Oxxo?

And then just a follow-up question on barley. You had been guiding up your expectations for barley costs at the same time that wheat prices are sort of tumbling down, and if you could just reconcile that for me, that would be great.

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: Sure. Sure. On Oxxo, the answer is definitely yes, Jose. We're again factoring in in our comments not only the effect of incremental spending because of the strengthening of the organization and we're also explaining the effects on margin, so changing the way we register the new airtime, electronic airtime, for phone cards. It's also we are looking still at very robust performance indicators at Oxxo, so we're continuing with our guidance of margin expansion at a fraction of past years, and we think that we can still deliver incremental margin for Oxxo in '08, even though we're going to put a lot of money behind some of these projects that I just described.

And in terms of barley, at least for '08 and as the year progresses, of course, we will have much more certainty about the specific numbers, but by the way we negotiate prices, we feel pretty comfortable about the guidance that we've been sharing. Also, we tend to have at least in Mexico a couple of times at which we can secure the pricing and of course the supply also.

So we feel pretty comfortable that the agreements that we have gotten, even though we're going to suffer a very, very high price increase on this very important raw materials, we are now coming to a time. And I would say that the end of the second quarter will let the rest of the story to be for sure, 100% sure, that what the price increase effect is going to be in terms of the size of it.

So we feel that the guidance that we've been providing to you is the one that we're going to be reflecting in the income statement for the future months.

JOSE YORDAN: Okay, thanks a lot.

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: Thank you.

OPERATOR: We'll take our next question from Celso Sanchez from Citigroup.

CELSO SANCHEZ, ANALYST, CITIGROUP: Hi, good morning. I just wanted to ask a little bit about the traffic growth at Oxxo and help us understand a little bit that better. Obviously, there was a big divergence in traffic and ticket. You helped us with an explanation on the ticket side, but in traffic can you give us a sense for how much --?

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: Yes, again, some of the effects that we've been looking and we're sure of that, Celso, just because of looking at the statistic of how many transactions we do to sell some products and what's the mix of those products, we're definitely sure that some of that traffic is being driven by now the ability of consumers to buy as less as 30% in electronic airtime as opposed in the past of having to buy -- not 30%, MXN30, but as opposed to the fact that in the past consumers had to buy at least MXN100 phone card.

So we are looking at a phenomenon in which people are coming more frequently to the store, but they're acquiring, at least when they buy time for their cellular, they're buying less in terms of the amount that they're now buying, because of now having the availability of a MXN30 transaction. So some of the traffic has been driven by that definitely.

OPERATOR: And we'll take our next question from Sohel Amir with Lucite Research.

SOHEL AMIR, ANALYST, LUCITE RESEARCH: Could you talk a little bit about CapEx for FY '08 and the first quarter of '08? Also, if you could go into where you see most of this CapEx being implemented and what percentage of it is maintenance and what is exactly expansion?

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: Yes, the first quarter for CapEx was at least, basically, always a slow start. We invested, if I recall correctly, something like $150 million for the quarter and we have shared that we have a program for something like $1.2 billion for the year. We think -- I'm not sure that we're going to be able to exercise all of it. I'm sure that we're going to be able to exercise the majority of it.

Basically, all the projects that have been put into the CapEx for the year are projects which we feel very comfortable at exercising, but there may be some things during the year that would make us to defer some of those, or in some other cases to anticipate some of those. So the whole idea would be to exercise those, taking into account specific conditions through the year.

And that is the way the projects are being deployed and the timing of the currency exchange situation and negotiation with suppliers of machinery and equipment, which is huge. And so I would say that our intention for the year would be to exercise, if not all, most of the CapEx programs that we put in place.

And the number that I've just been told here is $180 million for the quarter, which is a fraction only of $1.2 billion, but, again, first quarter being all of the times the slowest one.

SOHEL AMIR: Right. Could you also go into where do you see most of this CapEx being implemented? And I'm trying to get a sense of what your level of operating leverage is and at what point would you need to implement expansion CapEx?

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: A number of these numbers, if you look at, I would say, with the actual size of the Company, the more stable number for CapEx would be maybe in the $900 million. If you look at the incremental spending or investing in CapEx, a lot of that has to do with capacity expansion.

And I'm not only speaking because of the new factory -- I mean, the new brewery and the new glass factory in Chihuahua, that we are just starting to invest as we speak, but also we have capacity expansion programs in Coca-Cola FEMSA, in Jugos del Valle, in also some of the distribution in Mexico, so I would say that a good chunk of the CapEx for 2008 is pretty much destined to either break bottlenecks at some of our existing facilities or to build brand-new breweries and glass factories as the one we just announced on the fourth quarter of 2007.

SOHEL AMIR: Great, thank you very much.

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: Thank you.

OPERATOR: And it appears there are no further questions. At this time, I'd like to turn the call over to Mr. Astaburuaga.

JAVIER ASTABURUAGA: Well, thank you very much. As you can see, we had a strong start in 2008 and we're hard at work and we're confident that the combination of the strategy and business model, executed with excellence across our very dynamic markets will allow us to deliver in this challenging environment and well into the future. Thank you very much, again, and have a good week, everyone.

OPERATOR: Ladies and gentlemen, if you wish to access the replay for this call, you may do so by dialing 1-888-203-1112 or 719-457-0820, with pass code 3892624. This concludes our conference for today. Thank you all for participating, and have a nice day. All parties may now disconnect.

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Company / organization: Name: Credit Suisse; NAICS: 522110; Name: Thomson Financial; NAICS: 551111

Publication title: Fair Disclosure Wire; Linthicum

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 28, 2008

Publisher: CQ Roll Call

Place of publication: Linthicum

Country of publication: United States, Linthicum

Publication subject: Business And Economics, Law--Corporate Law

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

ProQuest document ID: 467045561

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/467045561?accountid=4840

Copyright: 2008 CCBN, Inc. and FDCH e-Media, Inc.

Last updated: 2018-02-23

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 155 of 313

April 29, 2008 (Page 23 of 78)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]29 Apr 2008: 23.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 124

First page: 23

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Apr 29, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2226107537

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2226107537?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Apr 29, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-16

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 156 of 313

The greatest game in the world

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: FT.com ; London (May 2, 2008).

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

It was a little after half-time on Wednesday when the chant became audible for the first time. Argentina's Boca Juniors were 1-0 up at home to Cruzeiro of Brazil in a Copa Libertadores tie but on the vertiginous stands at la Bombonera thoughts were already straying to the weekend and the superclasico against Buenos Aires rivals River Plate. "Chickens," came the call, "on Sunday we're meeting the chickens."

It is an exaggeration to say that no competition matters so much as winning the derby, but not much of one. For both teams, this is a crucial fortnight with tough games in the league and the Libertadores, a cup competition featuring South America's top sides. But for both sets of fans, if they could win only one of the defining games they are playing in the next fortnight it would be the superclasico. As Alberto J Armando, a former Boca chairman and the man after whom la Bombonera is officially named, said on signing the Brazilian forward Paulo Valentim in 1960: "Don't worry about the other games, just score in the superclasicos."

A recent survey suggested that about 70 per cent of Argentinians support either Boca or River Plate, while a poll in an American magazine last year had a superclasico at the Bombonera highest on their list of 10 sporting events to visit before you die. Make no mistake, in a world in which so much of football's hype is little more than marketing froth, this matters.

This is a fixture that knows its own history. River wear white with a red sash but two years ago their fans released thousands of orange balloons before kick-off at la Bombonera in celebration of a famous goal Norberto Alonso had scored with an orange ball in the superclasico 20 years earlier.

When Boca produced a limited-edition set of individually numbered boots to celebrate the forward Martin Palermo reaching 180 goals for the club earlier this season, it was the one marked with a "73" that fetched the highest price: his 73rd goal was the fabled "limp goal" he scored against River after returning from a knee injury far earlier than was expected or seemed wise. It was that goal, more than anything else, that established him as a hero of the modern side.

Disappointment, equally, becomes ritualised. The forward Ruben Sune won eight league titles with Boca but he was always haunted by a penalty miss in a superclasico. "We lost 5-4 and it was the worst day of my mother's life," he said. "As soon as I missed I thought of my family, all of them Boca fans."

Violence has been common since the sides first met in 1913 but the worst incident occurred in 1968, when 71 Boca fans were killed in a crush at Gate 12 of River's El Monumental stadium. The cause is still disputed: some say the gate was blocked, possibly deliberately by police; others blame Boca fans for throwing burning River flags from the stand above, creating a panic; others say River fans charged their rivals.

Yet, unlike some of the world's great derbies, the divide is far from clear. In Glasgow, for instance, affiliation to Rangers or Celtic is determined by religion; in Cairo it is political background that separates Al Ahly from Zamalek; in Rome the split between Roma and Lazio is largely regional. In Buenos Aires, though, there is nothing so obvious.

Boca fans insist the issue is one of class and there is perhaps a little truth to that, but only a little. Both clubs were founded in the Boca area of the city in the early 20th century when most of its population were Italian immigrants, but in 1923 River moved to Nunez, a far wealthier district. As they began to draw fans from the middle-classes, their spending increased so that by the late 1930s they were known as los Millonarios (the millionaires). Boca, by contrast, remained the team of the people, something celebrated by their fans in their chant, "Boca es el pueblo, el carnival".

Their styles of play, even, are supposed to reflect that background. River's greatest team was la Maquina, the side managed by Renato Cesarini that, with its fabled front five of Felix Loustau, Angel Labruna, Adolfo Pedernera, Jose Moreno and Juan Carlos Munoz won three league titles between 1941 and 1945.

"You play against la Maquina with the intention of winning," said Ernesto Lazzatti, Boca's centre-half at the time, "but as an admirer of football sometimes I'd rather stay in the stands and watch them play." Yet the other two championships in that period were won by Boca, whose strength was said to be their garra - literally "claw" but the term means spirit or, as a more recent chant puts it, huevos (balls).

La Maquina became known as the "Knights of Anguish" for their tendency of failing to capitalise on their superior ability, and that trend continued, reaching ridiculous heights as they failed to win the league for 18 years from 1957 but finished as runners-up 11 times. After they threw away a two-goal lead against Penarol in the Libertadores final of 1966, they were nicknamed gallinas (chickens) by Boca fans. "Finally," the Uruguayan midfielder Gabriel Cedres said on leaving River for Boca in 1997, "I have got rid of the feathers."

The term has been appropriated to an extent but it is still considered sensitive enough that the Manchester United forward Carlos Tevez, then at Boca, was sent off at El Monumental for miming the flapping of chicken wings after scoring a vital late goal when the sides met in the Libertadores semi-final in 2004. River, meanwhile, mocking the supposed stench from the river in the harbour area where Boca still have their home, refer to their rivals as puercas (pigs).

And so the farmyard rivalry will be resumed this Sunday. It will be passionate and hectic, chaotic and colourful. It might be glorious and there will probably be violence but that is why it's the greatest game in the world. As the former River striker and coach Ramon Diaz once said: "If it weren't for Boca, how would River have fun?"

Company: River Plate

Publication title: FT.com; London

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 2, 2008

Publisher: The Financial Times Limited

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 229162537

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/229162537?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright Financial Times Ltd. 2008. All rights reserved.)

Last updated: 2017-11-08

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 157 of 313

GRANNIES ON SAFARI(R) Returns for a Second Season on Public Television Stations Nationwide: National Broadcast premiere, Saturday, May 3, 2008 (check local listings)

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: PR Newswire ; New York [New York]03 May 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Produced in high definition, the second season of GRANNIES ON SAFARI features seven, new, 30-minute episodes that highlight the dynamic duo's love for travel as they visit a 19th century pioneer community in Canada; wander through palaces in Poland; cruise the Caribbean; admire new architectural landscapes in Buenos Aires; visit Montevideo in Uruguay, the City of the Drums; venture through colorful ethnic neighborhoods in Toronto and explore San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

CHICAGO, May 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Best friends and co-hosts Pat Johnson and Regina Fraser return for a second season of the award-winning Grannies on Safari to recount their continued exploration to diverse locales that dazzle the senses and intrigue the mind. Having scoured the world to explore fascinating destinations, Pat and Regina share their experience of making new cultural connections and visiting notable, historical sites. Grannies on Safari will be distributed to public television stations nationwide by American Public Television. The national broadcast premiere is Saturday, May 3, 2008. (check local listings)

In the premiere episode of Grannies on Safari, Pat and Regina motor from Chicago to Ottawa, Canada where they visit Parliament Hill to witness the changing of the guards, experience the Cordon Bleu Cooking School and perform a ceremonial dance with some original Aboriginal (Native) Americans.

Produced in high definition, the second season of GRANNIES ON SAFARI features seven, new, 30-minute episodes that highlight the dynamic duo's love for travel as they visit a 19th century pioneer community in Canada; wander through palaces in Poland; cruise the Caribbean; admire new architectural landscapes in Buenos Aires; visit Montevideo in Uruguay, the City of the Drums; venture through colorful ethnic neighborhoods in Toronto and explore San Juan, Puerto Rico. Each episode features Pat and Regina in lively conversations with locals as they visit unique sites and unveil cultural treasures.

Destinations include:

Ottawa - Canada's Best Kept Secret

In the season premiere, the Grannies visit historic Parliament Hill and marvel at the splendor of the changing of the guard, taste prize-winning barbeque, visit a one-of-its-kind Aboriginal display, tour the sprawling grounds of Rideau Hall, home of the Governor General, and take an evening boat ride along the pristine Ottawa River.

Poland - Warsaw and Krakow: Sophisticated Sister Cities

Join the Grannies as they travel to Poland and seek hidden treasures and historical markers in the heart of Warsaw and Krakow. Significant and beautiful churches, old castles, interesting shops, and, of course, good food are all there. They also include a darker part of Poland's history as they pay a special visit to two concentration camps: Auschwitz and Birkenau.

Cruising the Caribbean

In this episode, the Grannies decide to so something different -- take a cruise -- and cruise in a big way, on a "really" big ship to the Caribbean. With stops at glamorous islands including Barbados, Antigua, St Lucia, and Antigua, they visit local artists and craftsmen, visit a sugar plantation, see the monkeys on Barbados, and walk the same paths as pirates.

Buenos Aires: European Charm with a Latin Beat

On this trip to Buenos Aires, the Grannies visit with a noted silversmith who makes authentic Gaucho artifacts, take a stroll in the famous rose gardens in one of the most beautiful parks in the city, and foray into local markets. Journey with the Grannies on a Busquebus (a fast boat/ferry) to Colonia, Uruguay and walk along the "Street of Sighs" where former African slaves were quarantined before being sent to Brazil and other parts of South America.

Montevideo - Uruguay's City of the Drums

Traveling to Montevideo, Uruguay's capital city, the Grannies visit one of the oldest opera houses in Latin America, enjoy the lively and pulsating rhythms of drums and meet with the active Afro-Uruguayan community to learn about the art of drum making. The Grannies also meet with an art curator and writer, visit the Carnival Museum, and a premier winery.

Toronto - A Cultural and Ethnic Mix

In Toronto the Grannies visit Chinatown, Cabbage Town and Caribbean Town -- to name just a few. At the Gardiner Museum they try their hand at "throwing pots" and visit the one-of-a-kind Bata Shoe Museum where more than 12,000 shoes are housed. Learn the art of making Chinese dumplings, dragon lanterns, and then watch the Grannies share their skills on "Caribana" costume-making.

San Juan - Bienvenidos, Paradise

The Grannies venture into San Juan, Puerto Rico, where they visit small hamlets, villages, and winding roads that crisscross the island. Visit El Morro, a large Spanish fort, walk through Old Town with flower draped balconies and experience the integration of the many cultures found on this island through its music -- "salsa!"

Grannies on Safari is produced by The Art Explorers, Inc. in association with Brave New Pictures, Inc., comprised of director, DP, and videographer Dave Monk and producer, writer and editor Kathy Monk. Since 1988, the Monks have produced narrative, documentary, educational, fundraising, and promotional videotapes for a wide range of clients. Their work has appeared on The Discovery Channel, NBC Nightly News, MTV, A&E Network, ESPN, PBS, CBS and at EPCOT Center in Walt Disney World. Original incidental music for the series is by Allen Phillips, with the theme song composed by trumpeter Orbert Davis. For more information on this series, visit http://www.granniesonsafari.com.

About American Public Television (APT)

With more than 10,000 hours of programming in its library, American Public Television (APT) has been a prime source of programming for the nation's public television stations for 47 years, distributing more than 300 new program titles per year. For more information about APT's programs and services, visit APTonline.org.

About WTTW National Productions

WTTW National Productions is a premier producer and presenter of original, high-quality television programs for both public and commercial television broadcast. WTTW National Productions is a division of Window to the World Communications, Inc., the parent company of WTTW11 Chicago. More information about WTTW National Productions is available at http://www.wttw.com/national.

SOURCE Grannies on Safari

Credit: Grannies on Safari

Subject: Public television; Museums

Publication title: PR Newswire; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 3, 2008

Dateline: CHICAGO

Publisher: PR Newswire Association LLC

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 44743 8535

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/447438535?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright PR Newswire Association LLC May 3, 2008

Last updated: 2010-11-03

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 158 of 313

May 7 Calendar

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Gainesville Sun ; Gainesville, Fla. [Gainesville, Fla]08 May 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

FLORIDA SENIOR PLAYWRIGHT FESTIVAL: Three plays by winners of playwright competition: "The Specialist," "Yard Sale" and "A Dinner Party," 7 p.m. Friday-Sunday, Hippodrome State Theatre, 25 SE 2nd Place. Free. (375-HIPP)AMERICAN HEROES AIRWSHOW: Featuring helicopter rides, law enforcement, fire rescue, military and civilian participants, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, SFCC, Overflow Parking Lot, 9100 NW 39th Ave. Free. (heroes-airshow.com)

CIVIC MEDIA CENTER FILM: "Hearts and Minds," Peter Davis's landmark documentary unflinchingly confronts the U.S.'s involvement in Vietnam, 8 p.m. Monday; "Rock' n' Roll High School," Riff Randall and her classmates take over their school, 9 p.m. Wednesday, CMC, 1021 W. University Ave. Free. (373-0010)

HARN MUSEUM OF ART: Through May 18: "Paradigms and the Unexpected: Modern and Contemporary Art from the Shey Collection;" through June 30: "Highlights from the Photography Collection: University of Florida's Photographic Legacy;" through July 20: "Vision/Revision: Contemporary Art from the Harn Collection," SW 34th Street and Hull Road. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays, 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (392-9826)

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

"LET'S GO DOWNTOWN" CONCERT: The 6th Street Rhythm & Blues Review performs 8-10 p.m. Friday, Downtown Community Plaza, SE 1st Street and University Avenue. Free. (393-7520)

THE KEN PEPLOWSKI QUARTE 8 p.m. Tuesday, Savannah Grande, 301 N. Main St. (378-4213)

GAINESVILLE MUSIC TEACHERS YOUNG PERFORMERS RECITAL: 3 p.m. Sunday, The Thomas Center, 302 NE 6th Ave. (334-5064)

SURVIVIAL TO REVIVAL WEEK MAIN EVENT CONCERT: Featuring the Israeli band Kolot, 9 p.m. Saturday, Florida Museum of Natural History. Free. (846-2000)

BRAZILIAN MUSIC INSTITUTE CLOSING CONCERT: Featuring Beatriz Malnic and Ulisses Rocha, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, SFCC, Auditorium E, 3000 NW 83rd St. Free.

ELEMENTARY MUSIC CONCERT: 7 p.m. Friday, Performing Arts Center at P.K. Yonge, 1080 SW 11th Street. Tickets: $5 general; $3 ages 3-12. (392-1554)

SPRING VOCAL CONCERT: 7 p.m. Tuesday, Performing Arts Center at P.K. Yonge, 1080 SW 11th Street. Tickets: $5. (392-1554) "THE PURSUIT OF HAPPINESS:" Comedy about a family whose pursuit of happiness is counter-productive, 8 p.m. today and Friday, 5 and 8:30 p.m. Saturday, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Hippodrome State Theatre, 25 SE 2nd Place. Tickets: $25-$35. (375-HIPP)

"THE CEMETERY CLUB:" A comedy about friendship and love, 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, through May 25, High Springs Community Theater. Tickets: $11 general; $8 ages 11 and younger; $9 seniors. (myhsct.com)

FLORIDA SENIOR PLAYWRIGHT FESTIVAL: Three plays by winners of playwright competition: "The Specialist," "Yard Sale" and "A Dinner Party," 7 p.m. Friday-Sunday, Hippodrome State Theatre, 25 SE 2nd Place. Free. (375-HIPP)AMERICAN HEROES AIRWSHOW: Featuring helicopter rides, law enforcement, fire rescue, military and civilian participants, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, SFCC, Overflow Parking Lot, 9100 NW 39th Ave. Free. (heroes-airshow.com)

WINDSOR ZUCCHINI FESTIVAL: Rides, arts and crafts, food and more, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, 1401 SE Country Road 243, Windsor. Benefits the Windsor Fire Station. (372-7814)

"CELEBRATE 60:" Festivities celebrate 60 years of Israel's Independence, 9 p.m. Saturday, Florida Museum of Natural History. Free. (846-2000)

TOUR THE HIPPODROME: Tour the historic 1911 Federal Building at the Hippodrome, 11 a.m. Monday, 25 SE 2nd Place. $5. (375-4477)

"TEAM HOYT:" Dick Hoyt tells the inspirational story of a father and son marathon team, 7 p.m. Wednesday, Trinity United Methodist Church, 4000 NW 53rd Ave. (376-6615)

WINE TASTING EVENT: 6 p.m. today, ABC Fine Wine and Spirits, 6612 Newberry Road. $10. (331-5791)

SINGING TALES: West African storyteller Papa Susso performs, 11 a.m.-noon Saturday, Florida Museum of Natural History. Free. (846-2000)

"INSIDE AFRICA:" Interactive exhibit of Africa's natural and cultural history and artifacts, through Sept. 7, Florida Museum of Natural History. Tickets: $5.50 general; $4 children ages 3-12. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (846-2000)

LET'S EXPLORE SCIENCE SERIES: "Why Monkeys Live in Trees," 10 a.m. Saturday, Florida Muesum of Natural History. Free. (846-2000)

CIVIC MEDIA CENTER FILM: "Hearts and Minds," Peter Davis's landmark documentary unflinchingly confronts the U.S.'s involvement in Vietnam, 8 p.m. Monday; "Rock' n' Roll High School," Riff Randall and her classmates take over their school, 9 p.m. Wednesday, CMC, 1021 W. University Ave. Free. (373-0010)

MOTHER, DAUGHTER MONDAY: The first of a week of events for National Women's Health Week for ages 12 and older. Events include Total Body Circuit Class, Ice Cream Social, Chair Massages and Mini Makeovers, 5:15 p.m. Monday, Gainesville Health & Fitness Center, 2441 NW 43rd St. Free. (374-4634)

KIKA SILVA PLA PLANETARIUM: Southern Nights, 7 p.m. Fridays; Children's matinee, 3 p.m. Saturdays; Black Holes, 5 p.m. Saturdays; Night Spirits, 7 p.m. Saturdays. Tickets: $4 general; $3 children and seniors at the door, SFCC, 3000 NW 83rd St. (395-5381 or sfcc.edu/planetarium)

COSMIC CONCERTS: "Sounds of the Underground," cosmic video featuring techno, dance, club and rave styles on the dome of the Kika Silva Pla Planetarium, 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 3000 NW 83rd St. Tickets: $10. (sfcc.edu/planetarium)

MORNINGSIDE NATURE CENTER: Living History Days: A slice of life from 1870, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturdays. Animals fed 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily; Barnyard Buddies: Youngsters meet animals, 3 p.m. Wednesdays, Sundays; Feed-A-Frog Fridays: 2 p.m. first Fridays, Morningside Nature Center, 3540 E. University Ave. Free. (334-3326) MOTHER'S DAY AT CAMELLIA COURT CAFE: Brunch buffet followed by a docent-led tour of An Ocean of Devotion: South Asian Regional Worship Traditions, 11 a.m. Sunday, Harn Museum of Art. Cost: $14.95 general; $7.95 children ages 12 and younger. (392-9826)

"PEACE WANTS A PIECE OF THE PIE:" A celebration of mothers and daughters and their fervent hope for peace, 3-6 p.m. Saturday, Downtown Community Plaza. Event includes free pie, live music by Marce & Don David Band, face-painting and children's activities and more.

MOTHER'S DAY HARP CONCERT: 2 p.m. Sunday, Tower Road Branch Library. (333-2840)

MOTHER'S DAY DINNER: Benefits Interfaith Emergency Services and Brother's Keeper food pantries, 4:30 p.m. Sunday, VFW Post, 4805 NE 36th Ave. Cost: Six non-perishable food items per person.

MOTHER AND SON LUAU NIGHT: Hawaiian luau, 5-7:30 p.m. Saturday, Thomas Center, 516 NE 2nd Ave. $28 per couple. (334-5069)

MOTHER'S DAY CONCERT YOUTH CHORUS: Featuring the Gainesville Youth Chorus, 2 p.m. Saturday, First Presbyterian Church,106 SW 3rd St. (378-1527)

MOTHER'S DAY CONCERT: Featuring the Gainesville Community Band, 2 p.m. Sunday, Trinity United Methodist Church. (gnvband.org)

MOTHER'S DAY CONCERT FOR PEACE: A string ensemble featuring Janet Chow and Heather Law, plus two quartets for four violins, 7 p.m. Sunday, Thomas Center, 516 NE 2nd Ave. Free. (334-5069)GAINESVILLE STORY GROUP: Storyteller Sherry Dupree brings to life stories of Florida's black author Zora Neale Hurston's "Their Eyes Were Watching God" and other Florida stories, 6:30 p.m. Monday, Trinity United Methodist Church, 4000 NW 53rd Ave. (376-6615)

GOERINGS BOOK STORE: Authors of "How to Be Bad," Myracle E. Lockhart and Sarah Mlynowski, 2 p.m. today, 1717 NW 1st Ave. (377-3703)

WRITERS' ROUNDTABLE: 6:30 Mondays, Books-A-Million, 6111 W. Newberry Road. (371-8420)

GAINESVILLE POETS AND WRITERS: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Books-A-Million, 2601 NW 13th St. (376-6623)

JONESVILLE WRITERS' GROUP: 6:30 p.m. second and fourth Thursdays, St. Joseph's Episcopal Church, Newberry Road, Jonesville. (fl_muse@bellsouth.net)CALL FOR ARTISTS: For spaces at the Art Festival at Thornebrook, Oct. 4-5. Deadline: June 30. Contact Lyn White. (384-3642)

SEEKING EXHIBIT ENTRIES: The Florida Museum of Natural History and the Quilters of Alachua County Day Guild seek entries for the exhibit "Quilting Natural Florida II," planned for Spring 2010. Forms available at qacdg.org. TOYS 4 COPS FUNDRAISER: Child Protection Education of America, Toys 4 Cops and ID Me Now will pass out balloons and talk about the Jennifer Kesse and Tiffany Sessions Missing Persons Act, 10 a.m. today, Wal Mart, 1800 NE 12th Ave.

A RIDE TO REMEMBER: Benefits the Alzheimer's Association. Registration begins 7 a.m. and ride begins 8 a.m. May 17, Boulware Springs Park, 3500 SE 15th St. Fee: $40; $35 if pre-registered. (lisa@gatorcustom.com)

BATIZADO AND CHANGING OF THE CORDS: Event with cultural food, cash bar, dancing, performances and live music by Bahia Viva, benefits the Children of Gainesville; The Brazilian Cultural Arts Exchange; and Hoggetown Middle School, 9 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, P.K. Yonge Gymnasium. Kids performance, 9 a.m.; Adults performance, 2 p.m. Tickets: $5 at the door.

GAINESVILLE PET RESCUE'S BABY SHOWER: Help GPR fill their baby crib with supplies needed to care for homeless puppies and kittens, noon-4 p.m. May 17, GPR, 5403 SW Archer Road. (692-4773 or gainesvillepetrescue.org)ARTISANS' GUILD GALLERY: "Colorworks," with jewelry by Katherine Swift; paintings by Harriet Huss; stained glass by Mike and Mary Ellen McIntyre; and pottery by Marcia Scheeter, through May, Millhopper Square, 4201 NW 16th Blvd. Hours: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; noon-5 p.m. Sundays. Reception, 7-9 p.m. Friday. (378-1383)

ART GALLERY AT BOOKS, INC.: "Paintings and Linocuts," by Nicola Barsaleau through May, 505 NW 13th St. Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. (374-4241)

BELLAMY ROAD ART GALLERY:5910 Hampton St., Melrose. Gallery hours: noon-7 p.m. Fridays-Saturdasy. (475-3435)

CEDAR KEY ARTS CENTER: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, 457 2nd St. (543-5801)

COFRIN GALLERY: 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. weekdays, Oak Hall School, 8009 SW 14th Ave. (332-3609)

ELEANOR BLAIR STUDIO: Florida landscape paintings by Eleanor Blair, 4-7 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, 113 S. Main St. (378-6006)

FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY: "Namibia -The Smile of Africa:" Artist Mary Jane Volkmann depicts life of native people of Namibia, opens today through July 12; "Butterflies and Moths in Contemporary Zuni Art:" Discover how butterflies have influenced Zuni Indian art, through 2008: "Charles R. Knight: Studies of Lost Worlds:" Seven study paintings and a self-portrait, through Jan. 31, 2009, Florida Museum of Natural History. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays, 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (846-2000)

FOCUS GALLERY: 10 a.m.- 5 p.m. weekdays, UF campus, Fine Arts Building C, 400 SW 13th St. (392-0201, ext. 229)

GALLERY UNDER THE OAKS: 207 NE Cholokka Blvd., Micanopy. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays. (466-9229)

GRINTER GALLERY: "Visions of Bahia, Brazil in the Work of Jorge Amado and His Illustrators," 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays through July, UF campus, Grinter Hall, 400 SW 13th St. (392-0201, ext. 229)

HARN MUSEUM OF ART: Through May 18: "Paradigms and the Unexpected: Modern and Contemporary Art from the Shey Collection;" through June 30: "Highlights from the Photography Collection: University of Florida's Photographic Legacy;" through July 20: "Vision/Revision: Contemporary Art from the Harn Collection," SW 34th Street and Hull Road. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays, 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (392-9826)

HAROLD'S FRAMES AND GALLERY: 101 SE 2nd Place, 1-5:30 p.m. Mondays, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11 a.m. Saturdays. (375-0260)

HAWTHORNE HISTORICAL MUSEUM: 7225 SE 221st St. (954-551-7692)

HECTOR FRAMING AND GALLERY: "Quintessential Kesl," through Friday, 702 W. University Ave. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays. (271-4243 or hectorframingallery.com)

JIM WILSON'S STUDIO: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays, 1014 NW 4th St. (378-5528)

MATHESON MUSEUM: Framed pieces commemorating UF's football and basketball championships, 513 E. University Ave. (378-2280)

MCINTYRE STAINED GLASS STUDIO AND ART GALLERY: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays, 2441 NW 43rd St., Suite 11A. (372-2752)

MELROSE BAY ART GALLERY: Gainesville Invitational, Members of GFAA and Melrose Bay Art Gallery, along with nationally renowned artists from across the country show their works at a reception open to the public, Melrose Bay Art Gallery, 103 SR-26 at Centre Street, Melrose. Gallery hours: 3-7 p.m. Fridays; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays; 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (475-3866 or mbagallery.smugmug.com)

PRESIDENTS GALLERY: "Time's Up," Clock faces and posters by students of the Graphic Design and Technology Department, through June 11, SFCC, 3000 NW 83rd St. Hours: noon-4 p.m. weekdays. (395-5979)

RANDY BATISTA GALLERY: "The Hidden Heart of Alachua County," photography by Mac Stone, through May 30, 21 SE 2nd Place. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays. (375-1911)

SFCC PRESIDENT'S GALLERY: "Time's Up," Clock faces and posters by students of the Graphic Design and Technology Department, through June 11, SFCC, 3000 NW 83rd St. Hours: noon-4 p.m. weekdays. (395-5979)

SWEETWATER PRINT CO-OP GALLERY: 117 S. Main St. (375-0790)

THE CEDAR KEYHOLE GALLERY:10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, 2nd Street, Cedar Key. (543-5801)

THOMAS CENTER GALLERIES: "Richard Heipp: Selected Work - 25 Years," through Sunday, Main Gallery. "Beyond the Art Room: Those Who Can Teach Can Also Do," works by area art teachers, through May 18, Mezzanine Gallery, 302 NE 6th Ave. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays; 1-4 p.m. weekends. (393-8532)

UNIVERSITY GALLERY: Fine Arts Building B, 400 SW 13th St. (392-0201)THE SURVIVOR'S ART EXHIBIT: Sunday through May 23, The Gallery at the Reitz Union, 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Fridays-Sundays. Reception, 7-9 p.m. May 16.

ALACHUA COUNTY STUDENT ART EXHIBIT: Student works displayed through May 18, Harn Museum of Art, SW 34th Street and Hull Road. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays; 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (392-9826)

"HAND-EYE COORDINATION:" Photography by Renee Hoffinger, runs through May 16, Advanced Massage Professionals, 4909 NW 27th Court. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Mondays-Fridays. (377-6008)TIM McGRAW: 8 p.m. Sunday, Amway Arena, Orlando. Tickets: $26-$56 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

THE POLICE: 7:30 p.m. May 16, Amway Arena, Orlando. Tickets: $50-$225 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

LESS THAN JAKE: 8 p.m. May 19, House of Blues, Orlando. Tickets: $18.50 advance; $20 day of show, at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

ALICIA KEYS WITH JORDIN SPARKS: 8 p.m. May 24, St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa. Tickets: $39.50-$100 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

MARIO CANTONE: 8 p.m. June 7, Hard Rock Live, Orlando. Tickets: $35-$40 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

STEVIE NICKS: 7:30 p.m. June 8, Ford Amphitheatre, Tampa. Tickets: $25-$125 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

PEARL JAM: 7 p.m. June 12, St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa. Tickets: $69.75 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

ROWDY FRYNDS: LYNYRD SKYNYRD AND HANK JR.: 7 p.m. June 14, Veterans Memorial Auditorium, Jacksonville. Tickets: $41.50-$71.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

MELISSA ETHERIDGE: 8 p.m. June s19, Florida Theatre, Jacksonville. Tickets: $30-$100 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

TOBY KEITH: 7:30 p.m. June 28, Ford Amphitheatre, Tampa. Tickets: $30.25-$69.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

TOM PETTY AND THE HEARTBREAKERS: 7:30 p.m. July 16, St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa. Tickets: $55-$99.75 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

YES: 8 p.m. July 31, Ford Amphitheatre, Tampa. Tickets: $35-$149.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)"BLUE:" Dark drama laced with humor, 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, May 15-June 7, Acrosstown Repertory Theatre. (375-1321)

"SEE HOW THEY RUN:" Comedy occurring in an English vicarage, 8 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, May 15-June 1, Vam York Theater, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. (376-4949)

MOTHER GOOSE TEA PARTY: High Springs Community Theater presents high tea, 1-2 p.m. May 17, New Century Women's Club, NW 1st Street, High Springs. Tickets: $6. (386-454-3525) Tickets can be purchased at Coffee Clutch.

"FETE LA MUSIQUE:" Musical celebration of summer gods, nymphs and mortals performed by pianist Roberta Swedien, 6 p.m. May 17, UF campus, Keene Center, Dauer Hall 103. Tickets: $15 students, $20-$25 general. (332-6762)

"TWELFTH NIGHT:" Carnival spirit set in Shakespearean Italy, 7:30 p.m. May 21-23, 7:30 p.m. July 10-12, and 2 p.m. July 13, Constans Theater, UF Campus. Tickets: $9-$13. (392-1653)

ALICIA KEYS CONCERT: Alicia Keys performs with Jordin Sparks at 8 p.m. on May 24 at the St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa.

YULEE RAILROAD DAYS: Celebration of the Florida Railroad, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. May 28-May 31, 1-5 p.m. June 1, Matheson Museum, 513 E. University Ave. (378-2280)

Company: Ticketmaster Corp

Publication title: Gainesville Sun; Gainesville, Fla.

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 8, 2008

Section: NEWS

Publisher: Halifax Media Group

Place of publication: Gainesville, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Gainesville, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 01634925

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 390564588

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/390564588?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 New York Times Company

Last updated: 2012-10-12

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 159 of 313

AmBev Reports First Quarter 2008 Results

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: PR Newswire ; New York [New York]08 May 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

[...] Brazilian Beer and CSD operations faced volume decline in the quarter due to a slow down in the beverage industry driven by unexpected and unusually cold and wet weather, an early Carnival and a sharp increase in core food prices impacting consumer spend. Net revenues per hectoliter (+5.6%) were impacted positively by price increases in Brazil at the end of 2007 and the start of 2008, our continued focus on revenue management best practices and the development of the premium segment in all of our major markets.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

SAO PAULO, Brazil, May 8 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Companhia de Bebidas das Amdricas - AmBev [BOVESPA: AMBV4, AMBV3; and NYSE: ABV, ABVc], announces today its results for the first quarter 2008 (Q1 2008). The following financial and operating information, unless otherwise indicated, is presented in nominal Reais and prepared in accordance with Brazilian GAAP and should be read in conjunction with our quarterly financial information for the three month period ending March 31, 2008. Our press release segregates the impact of organic changes from those arising from changes in scope or currency translation. Scopes represent the impact of acquisitions and divestitures and the start-up or termination of activities. Comparisons, unless otherwise stated, refer to the first quarter of 2007 (Q1 2007). Values in this release may not add up due to rounding.

OPERATING AND FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

Strong performances by Quinsa and North America not enough to offset weakness in the Brazilian beverage industry.

Volume growth: Total volumes increased organically by 1.4% during Q1 2008. Our operations in Quinsa delivered organic volume growth of 9.9% and North America reported good volume growth of 8.0% including the Lakeport acquisition, with volumes increasing organically by 0.8% against Q1 2007. However, Brazilian Beer and CSD operations faced volume decline in the quarter due to a slow down in the beverage industry driven by unexpected and unusually cold and wet weather, an early Carnival and a sharp increase in core food prices impacting consumer spend.

Market Share improvement: We gained market share in our main operations as both Quinsa in Argentina and North America delivered market share growth for the quarter year over year. In Brazil, our average market share for the quarter was 67.8% for Beer and 17.7% for CSD, 20 bps and 40 bps higher than first quarter 2007, respectively.

Top line growth: Net sales increased organically by 7.1% during Q1 2008. Net revenues per hectoliter (+5.6%) were impacted positively by price increases in Brazil at the end of 2007 and the start of 2008, our continued focus on revenue management best practices and the development of the premium segment in all of our major markets.

Cost of Goods Sold and SG&A: COGS per hectoliter increased 7.8% in the quarter due to higher commodity prices such as barley and corn and a less favorable fixed cost absorption. Gains arising from sugar and currency appreciation partly offset these increases. SG&A (excluding depreciation and amortization) increased organically by 8.8% during Q1 2008, due to: (i) the timing of marketing investments in Brazil; (ii) growth in our Brazilian direct distribution network; (iii) labor cost increases in Argentina; and (iv) general inflation.

EBITDA and EBITDA Margin: Our EBITDA reached R$2,074.1 million during Q1 2008, which represents an organic increase of 4.9%. Our EBITDA margin in the first quarter was 42.8%.

Payout and Financial Discipline: Share buybacks in the quarter amounted to

R$514.7 million.

Financial Highlights -

AmBev Consolidated

% As

%

R$ million

1Q07

1Q08

Reported

Organic

Total Volumes

34,843.8

35,784.8

2.7%

1.4%

Beer

24,817.7

25,557.7

3.0%

1.2%

CSD and Nanc

10,026.1

10,227.1

2.0%

1.7%

Net Sales

4,655.0

4,847.8

4.1%

7.1%

Gross Profit

3,105.2

3,202.9

3.1%

6.0%

Gross Margin

66.7%

66.1%

-60 bps

-70 bps

EBITDA

2,042.6

2,074.1

1.5%

4.9%

EBITDA margin

43.9%

42.8%

-110 bps

-90 bps

Net Income

645.9

743.8

15.2%

No. of shares

outstanding (million)

629.6

611.6

-2.9%

EPS (R$/shares)

1.03

1.22

18.6%

EPS excl. goodwill

amortization (R$/shares) 1.66

2.02

22.1%

Financial Highlights -

AmBev Consolidated

% As

%

R$ million

YTD 07

YTD 08

Reported

Organic

Total Volumes

34,843.8

35,784.8

2.7%

1.4%

Beer

24,817.7

25,557.7

3.0%

1.2%

CSD and Nanc

10,026.1

10,227.1

2.0%

1.7%

Net Sales

4,655.0

4,847.8

4.1%

7.1%

Gross Profit

3,105.2

3,202.9

3.1%

6.0%

Gross Margin

66.7%

66.1%

-60 bps

-70 bps

EBITDA

2,042.6

2,074.1

1.5%

4.9%

EBITDA margin

43.9%

42.8%

-110 bps

-90 bps

Net Income

645.9

743.8

15.2%

No. of shares

outstanding (million)

629.6

611.6

-2.9%

EPS (R$/shares)

1.03

1.22

18.6%

EPS excl. goodwill

amortization (R$/shares)

1.66

2.02

22.1%

Note: Per share calculation is based on outstanding shares (total existing shares excluding shares held in treasury).

The full release is available at www.ambev-ir.com

SOURCE Companhia de Bebidas das Americas

Credit: Companhia de Bebidas das Americas

Subject: Market shares; Cost of goods sold; Commodity prices; Accounting policies

Location: Brazil

Publication title: PR Newswire; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 8, 2008

Dateline: SAO PAULO, Brazil

Publisher: PR Newswire Association LLC

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest documentID: 447433885

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/447433885?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright PR Newswire Association LLC May 8, 2008

Last updated: 2010-11-03

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 160 of 313

Q1 2008 Inbev Earnings Conference Call - Final

Publication info: Fair Disclosure Wire ; Linthicum [Linthicum]08 May 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

OPERATOR: Good morning and afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Welcome to the InBev first quarter 2008 results conference call. (OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS). Just to remind you, this conference call is being recorded.

Please note unless otherwise mentioned InBev talks about the business performance in organic terms versus the same period of last year. That is excluding any impact of (inaudible) or the impact of changes in currencies these or the translation of foreign operations. InBev uses the term [scope] to represent the impact of acquisitions and divestitures, or the transfer of activities between segments.

I would now like to hand over to the chairperson, Carlos Brito. Please begin the meeting, and I will be standing by.

CARLOS BRITO, CEO, INBEV: Hello, everyone. I have here with me our CFO, Felipe Dutra. Results in the first quarter of 2008 were difficult, with volumes down by 0.4%, and EBITDA growth of just 0.7% as compared to the same quarter last year. It is fair to say that the first quarter last year was a particularly strong one, with volume growth of 7.1% well ahead of the 2007 full-year volume growth of 5.2%.

This quarter results were mainly impacted by two issues. First, we were significantly affected by the exceptional 9.9% growth of cost of sales per hectoliter over the period versus the prior year. We expected a tough quarter given higher input costs, which could not be offset by supply efficiency programs, and the unfavorable comparison against a very good first quarter in '07, a quarter in which our cost of sales grew 0% as compared to first quarter '06. Cost of sales per hectoliter growth year-on-year should decelerate over the remainder of the year.

Nevertheless, it should be noted that the recent developments indicate that the weighted average inflation, CPI, in the countries in which we operate is moving towards the range of 5 to 6%, which is higher than the 4% we previously anticipated. However, we have already mapped additional (inaudible) cost saving opportunities to fully offset the gap versus our full-year cost of sales per hectoliter target of 4%, savings that will show up in different cost lines, but will be used to offset the difference to the 4% target that we have in our system.

The second issue that impacted our results in the quarter was weak volumes in Brazil and Russia. In Brazil, we grew share this quarter year-on-year from 67.6% to 67.8%, despite lean price adjustments in December '07 and March '08. However, our volumes were down 1.9% versus first quarter 2007. This is due to the fact that weather in Brazil was unusually cold and wet during the quarter, and an early Carnival reduced the summer holiday period.

In addition, we have seen some softness in the consumer goods sector in Brazil, with early indications that this is driven by food inflation of over 11%, well ahead of (inaudible) inflation of 4.7%. Going forward, we are confident that the Brazilian beer market will return to growth over the remainder of the year. In April, for example, our beer volumes in Brazil closed 3.1% higher than last year.

Turning now to Russia, performance was mainly impacted by higher shipments in December 2007, when volumes grew by 13.8%, ahead of the price increase on January 1, 2008 as a result of tax increases. Our market share in this first quarter declined by 0.3 percentage points year-on-year, driven by some share decline in the price value segment, which was partially offset by healthy growth in core and premium segments. As a result, we benefited from significant brand mix improvement, in which the percentage of (inaudible) comprised of core and premium segments grew from 42.9% to 55.3% of our total volume.

Volume performance was positive in all our results. In Latin America (inaudible), volumes grew across all markets, reaching 10% growth in the Zone. In North America, volumes grew by 2.9%. And in Western Europe, our own beer volumes were up by 0.6%.

On the revenue side, we were able to increase revenue per hectoliter by 5.2% in the first quarter '08 versus same period of last year, with contributions from all zones. We will continue to monitor prices in each market in order to benefit from any additional pricing opportunities that might arise.

Operating expenses grew slightly, driven by higher distribution expenses, mainly in Latin America and Western Europe, and an increase in sales and marketing expenses, as most zones had higher commercial spending, in particular Latin America North, due to phasing, while we captured savings in admin expenses overall.

Despite robust revenue per hectoliter growth, the combined effect of soft industry volumes and higher cost of sales resulted in first-quarter EBITDA growth of only 0.7%, leading to an EBITDA margin of 30.7, or an organic decline of 124 basis points.

Now Felipe will expand on the Zone results, as well as the results [below EBIT], and then I will come back with some final comments before we open for questions.

FELIPE DUTRA, CFO, INBEV: Welcome, everyone. Let's start with North America, where volumes rose by 2.9%. In Canada, volumes grew by 1.6%, and we gained share with solid performances in most provinces. The combined effect of higher cost of sales, partially offset by strong control of expenses and phasing of some of our [marketing investments], led to [EBITDA margin] expansion of 208 basis points at 29%.

Volumes in Latin America North declined 1.5% in the quarter, with beer down by 1.5% and soft drinks down 1.4%. As Brito mentioned, Brazil beer volumes were 1.9 below last year. However, our market share in 20 basis points higher than it was in the first quarter '07, at 67.8.

We saw some market share losses in March, following our recent price adjustments in (inaudible). We remain fully committed to rebuilding our market share in a profitable way, as we have always done.

Elsewhere in this zone, we increased volumes by 7%. The higher cost of sales and the anticipated sales and marketing investments impacted the strong EBITDA margin of 45.3%, which was 331 basis points below last year.

Latin America South delivered another solid performance with a 10% volume growth. All countries reported higher volumes, and we gained share in Argentina, where Stella Artois continues to grow well ahead of the market. The EBITDA margin for the Zone was 47.3%, representing an expansion of 459 basis points.

Moving to Western Europe, the continued focus on our own beer volumes delivered 0.6% volume growth this quarter. Starting with [Belgium], total volumes were down 4.6%, but our market share increased 0.1% versus the same quarter of last year. The UK posted 4.1% total volume growth. And in Germany, beer volumes were up 3.4%, leading to market share gains. The reduction in overhead expenses was not enough to offset the higher cost of sales during this quarter. EBITDA margin was 11.5%, a contraction of 161 basis points versus last year.

Weak volumes in Russia, as explained by Brito, was the main factor related to the 5.7% reduction in volumes in Central and Eastern Europe. However, volumes in Ukraine on balance grew by 4.4% after a slow start in January. The lower overall volumes, combined with higher cost of sales and phasing commercial spending, led to an EBITDA margin of 7.3% for the first quarter, 737 basis points below last year.

Asia-Pacific volumes were 2.4% below last year. In China, volumes declined by 3.8%, leading to some market share losses despite the continued growth of our Sedrin business. South Korea volumes were up 2.6%, with our brand Cass confirming the good momentum. (inaudible) EBITDA margin was 18.9%, 380 basis points below last year, as higher cost of sales and increased commercial spending more than offset revenue growth.

Turning to the lines below EBIT, net financing costs of EUR459 million were EUR23 million more than last year. This increase is largely explained by higher interest charges in the parent companies (inaudible) Brazil as a result of higher net debt, partially offset by lower interest rates in Brazil.

Our net debt position increased from EUR5.1 billion in December '07 to EUR5.7 billion by the end of March. In addition to our operating results, this was mainly impacted by share buyback programs at both the InBev and AmBev level that in total represented more than EUR500 million. Besides [that], nearly EUR300 million was used to expand our direct distribution in Brazil, as well as to acquire shares in Quinsa.

Income tax expense of EUR88 million represents an effective tax rate of 16.5%. The lower tax expense continues to be driven by the interest on the taxability in Brazil and Belgium, besides the deductible goodwill from the merger between InBev Holding Brazil and AmBev in July '05, as well as the acquisition of Quinsa in August [2006]. For the full year we continue to work with the range of 20 to 22% effective tax rate on a consolidated basis.

Now I will pass the call back to you, Brito.

CARLOS BRITO: Thanks, Felipe. Let me stress, we are indeed not proud of our first-quarter results. This quarter does not represent what we're in business for. Our main drive and motivation continues to be to build the most profitable beer company in the world, and we remain committed to delivering on it.

(inaudible) motivated our teams throughout the years, in good and challenging times. We knew that the first half of this year would be a difficult one, especially the first quarter. The second quarter should continue to present a tough comparable basis against the second quarter last year, but improving from where we ended up in the first quarter.

In summary, we believe that we have the right programs in place to deliver stronger results in the following quarters, allowing us to resume EBITDA margin expansion in the second half of this year. I would like now to open up for questions. If you will, [Manuel], please?

OPERATOR: (OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS). Philip Morrisey, Citigroup.

PHILIP MORRISEY, ANALYST, CITIGROUP: Could I ask please first regarding the evolution of COGS, obviously up 9% in the quarter. You're guiding to four for the year, so clearly a sharp deceleration as the quarter's progressed. Could I just inquire as to a little bit more detail as to what's driving that pattern? Is it to do with the timing of the FX hedge that you've got? Is it supply contracts (inaudible) my understanding? And clearly, as we go into the second, third, and fourth quarters, how that progression of the 9% might work, please. That's the first question.

The second, in Brazil, you've got quite a sharp increase in SG&A, and I just wondered if you could elaborate or explain as to why that's the case, and indeed whether in other markets, or other zones, you've also front loaded [A&P] spend.

And the third and final question, if I may -- looking ahead, I appreciate the year end is some way off. But, as regards the dividend, is it fair to assume that for fiscal '08 we can expect at least an unchanged, maybe even raised dividend above and beyond the 2.44 you paid for 2007? Thanks very much.

CARLOS BRITO: Let me tackle the first two, and Felipe will tackle the dividend. On COGS, what we said is that 2.5 months ago, when we announced the full-year results for '07, we said we expect cost of sales per hectoliter to be in line with our weighted average country inflation in the places where we operate, that at the time we submitted at 4%, in line with 4% we said. Now as we look towards the full year, we see that inflation of course picking up; we all know that. And weighted average inflation is more towards 5 to 6% range in the countries where we operate. On the other hand, because we do have a target of cost of sales of 4%, we're saying that the difference between the 4% and the 5 to 6 where we think cost of sales will land for the year will bridge that with another cost line or other cost lines coming from (inaudible) to bridge, and we already have mapped initiatives that (inaudible) that we have a good track and monitor (inaudible) in place, and also some track record in delivering on that system. So that's what we said for cost of sales, connected with other cost lines. So you won't see it in every quarter, this compensation that I just spoke about; we're talking about a direction for the full year. Again, cost of sales we said it was going to be in line with country average inflation, 2.5 months ago; we are still using the 4%. Now we're saying, given that inflation is picking up in all markets we operate pretty much, we're saying it's in the range of 5 to 6%. Because we have a target of 4%, we're going to bridge that difference with [ZBD] initiatives that not necessarily will show up in the same cost of sales line, will show up in different cost lines, and not in every quarter. That's direction for the full year.

PHILIP MORRISEY: So just (inaudible) even if it's a transition from 9 in the quarter to 5 to 6 for the full year, that still implies quite a sharp deceleration in that 9 (multiple speakers) quarter (multiple speakers) some feeling as to that as well.

CARLOS BRITO: That's what -- in my opening remarks I said we should expect that the cost of sales growth on a quarter-by-quarter basis, moving through the year, would decelerate as we go from quarter-to-quarter.

PHILIP MORRISEY: I was trying to get an understanding as to why that is the case. Is it the phasing of FX? Is it (multiple speakers)

CARLOS BRITO: No. The issues that -- given that last year, commodity was on the rise pretty much the whole year, our cost base was going up every quarter last year. So whenever you compare back to each quarter, the comparison will get less tough, because the kind of price we have today has more to do with the price we had in the last quarter of last year than with -- as compared to the first quarter of last year. So that's the reason. It should decelerate as we go through the quarters.

In terms of your second question, SG&A, yes; there was phasing in Brazil in the sense that an early Carnival also implied some more expenses in the first quarter as compared to some other quarters. But it's also fair to say that in some other zones we're spending ahead of last year, and that's in line with our intention to continue to invest behind our brands. So that should be no surprise. Just Latin America North we had some phasing, and that's what we pointed out in our press release. (technical difficulty) that should be compensated in the quarters ahead. And in terms of your third question (multiple speakers)

FELIPE DUTRA: On dividends, we clearly said that was (inaudible) level, and going forward we believe in continuity. The 2.44, which means roughly EUR1.5 billion, was equivalent to a kind of 80% payout and 4.5 dividend yield. We will take the two metrics as a reference going forward. You should not take the 1.5 necessarily as a floor. But as we do not expect that much volatility on dividends; quite the opposite, we expect the dividends to grow as we grow our results (inaudible) 80% payout as well as implied dividend yields should be the best reference for you to use going forward.

PHILIP MORRISEY: Thanks so much.

OPERATOR: [Jon Fell], Deutsche Bank.

JON FELL, ANALYST, DEUTSCHE BANK: First of all, I just wanted to get, if I could, a little bit more detail on what has been going onto industry volumes in Brazil in the first quarter. (inaudible) your points about the weather and the impact that the early Carnival had. But, you also commented that you are seeing some signs of consumer weakness, in part due to food inflation there. So I'm just wondering if you could give a little more detail about what you are seeing, and why you have confidence that the industry volumes will start to grow again later in the year. And is there actually a risk that that consumer weakness could persist for a little bit longer than you hope?

CARLOS BRITO: In terms of the first quarter in Brazil, again, we see some issues that were related to weather. I'll give you one example. When the year started in Brazil in January, a lot of people from the power generation industry were saying that Brazil was running again into risk of electricity shortage as we had in 2001, because the level of the water reservoirs were coming down because of lack of rain. And then after the first quarter, nobody talks about this anymore, and we have enough water for the next two years or three years. So the level of the reservoirs, because of the amount of rain that was way ahead of any historical patterns, of course helped. The price, for example, of energy, and free market, went from 500 at the beginning of the year, I think, per kilowatt-hour, something like that, per unit, to down to 50. So a 90% drop just because of the step change in terms of the level of the reservoir. So that's one thing. So weather was poor.

In terms of consumer, what we see is that -- and again, this is not only Brazil; we see that in many countries -- that food inflation, not always captured by CPI, or partially captured by CPI, is going higher than average inflation. So in Brazil, the numbers we have around 12%, versus the country inflation of 4.5, 4.7%. That of course puts pressure on the (inaudible) classes that are good consumers of our products. On the other hand, what you have is minimum salary around 9% increase kicking in now in April, which should, in our view, alleviate some of that. That, of course, is all speculation (inaudible) because we're just trying to forecast things and putting things together.

What we can say is that in April we saw, from a negative first quarter volume, beer volumes in Brazil of 1.9% at a pretty much constant share. We went, our beer volumes in Brazil, to a plus 3.1% in April. And in May we see a good start. Too early to say, but a good start. So again, it's only one month, April. But given where we came from, I think some of the weather patterns look like it's behind, and we believe that the industry should resume growth in the next few quarters.

(multiple speakers)

JON FELL: There's a possibility that the consumer weakness element of what impacted the first quarter could continue for a little while longer?

CARLOS BRITO: That's why we're using April as a reference, because that's a better point we have. So that's not speculation; that's a data point. So volumes, even with the new pricing and whatever consumer's feeling, went up by 3.1%, and they had a good start (inaudible). But that's what we're (technical difficulty). And also the fact that normally, if the country continues to grow, on average, a product like ours should have also some good pull.

JON FELL: Second question on Western Europe. For a while now we seem to have been seeing declining reported volumes, but your own beer volumes have been growing. When are we going to see the end of that process? When will the non-owned beer volumes (inaudible) so small that the decline in those [doesn't] impact the numbers anymore?

CARLOS BRITO: Non-beer volumes for us means two things. It means some private-label products that we still are in the phaseout process in Germany and Netherlands, and some commercial products that we sell as part of the distribution arrangements that we have in the UK. So the commercial products in the UK and Belgium will continue, but the private labels will be phased out most likely this year. So, that will give us a clear reading. And that's why since some quarters ago we now mention both numbers, total volume and own beer volumes, which of course is what we're trying to grow.

JON FELL: But for next year, that difference should evaporate?

CARLOS BRITO: Not entirely, because again, commercial products will continue. But private-label, that should be phased out. So we'll be closer (inaudible) closer to the other but not entirely the same. And we'll continue to give guidance -- or not guidance, but numbers on both.

JON FELL: Thanks a lot.

OPERATOR: Ian Shackleton, Lehman Brothers.

IAN SHACKLETON, ANALYST, LEHMAN BROTHERS: Firstly, you were highlighting EBITDA margins should start to go up in the second half of the year; that implies they're probably coming down again in Q2. Are we looking at a flat EBITDA margin for the year as a result? Second question, going back to the COGS situation. The AmBev release talks about a 13.1% increase in COGS per hectoliter in Brazil, which obviously is way ahead of the 9.9 you reported. What are the specific factors that have pushed that up to such a high extent in this quarter? And again, what gives you confidence that number is going to be coming down as we go through the next three quarters?

CARLOS BRITO: In terms of EBITDA, what we're saying is that, as we said last time, first half of the year, especially first quarter, will be tough. It was indeed. Second quarter we're saying it will be better than first quarter, but will continue to be tough comps. And then in the second half we should be back to margin expansion again. So that's -- we're not giving any guidance in terms of full year. But we're saying that we should resume margin expansion as from second half of this year. In terms of --

FELIPE DUTRA: For the costs, Ian, I think the number you referred to in Brazil, 13.1, that is for beer. For soft drinks there was a decline of 7% was negative by 7%. The overall increase in cost of sales (inaudible) in Brazil was (technical difficulty) 7.8%. And of course that is taking into account the negative volumes impact that is not helping at all in terms of fixed cost dilution. As Brito said, cost of sales per hectoliter increased last quarter -- sorry -- first quarter last year as compared to '06 was basically zero. It was flat before the comparison between first quarter this year versus first quarter last year was a very tough one. And we see (technical difficulty) cost of sales per hectoliter growth declining or decelerating throughout next -- the next quarters throughout the year on a linear basis.

IAN SHACKLETON: Just coming back on that (inaudible) the AmBev statement talks about the purchasing of third party (inaudible) for your malteries. Is that something that becomes less of a factor as we go into the smaller quarters in Q2 and Q3? Is that part of the problem?

CARLOS BRITO: That was more relevant for AmBev. And given AmBev's size as a percentage of our total business, there is an impact in our consolidated numbers as well. But going forward we see a more benefit mix between third party malt and our own malt production.

IAN SHACKLETON: Thank you.

OPERATOR: [James Edwards Jones], [Execution].

JAMES EDWARDS JONES, ANALYST, [EXECUTION]: Two questions if I may. Once again on the cost of sales per hectoliter, I think the increase in Q4 2007 was very low single digits. Why was this such a sudden increase in the first quarter this year? Again, was it that some hedges came off, or is there something else we should be aware of? And secondly, Central Eastern Europe performance. I'm not aware that you mentioned the trade load in Russia (inaudible) of the full-year results. How are you so confident that this is a trade load and not actually evidence of price elasticity and consumers reacting to the very significant price increases there?

CARLOS BRITO: Let me start from the second one. In Russia, we have two numbers we look at. We look at shipments and depletions. On shipments, we saw this shift between December and January because there was a price increase. And every time there is a price increase, distributors (inaudible) in every market, they increase their orders to try to make some money on the inventory. So that's part of the business. That's why we look also at consumer offtake, which is given by a company in Russia called Business Analytical, which is the Nielsen, the local Nielsen Company that we've been using for many years, and other participants as well. That of course is more important, because that reflects consumer offtake, and that we lost share, 0.3 percentage points. The only thing to qualify that loss is that loss was on the value and price segments as opposed to the core and above segments, where we grew share on a share segment basis. So in terms of share segment we gained in core and above, we lost in value and price, and the [map] of this in consumer offtake was a 0.3 percentage points loss. So a bad result, but mixed improvement.

JAMES EDWARDS JONES: (multiple speakers) read into that (inaudible) the trend through the quarter (inaudible) progressively more positive in Russia?

CARLOS BRITO: Yes, in terms of shipments, for sure. Because again, January was heavily impacted by the shift into December, (inaudible) February and March. But again, it was a poor quarter. We lost share. The industry was much different than it was last year. (inaudible) tough quarter, no matter how you cut it.

JAMES EDWARDS JONES: Has Russia, like Brazil, shown evidence of some improvement in April?

CARLOS BRITO: It's getting better, but too early to say. We'll have to wait for the second quarter.

JAMES EDWARDS JONES: Right.

(multiple speakers)

FELIPE DUTRA: For the cost of sales question, you are right in assuming that the swing in terms of cost of sales, organic growth, it's pretty much related to the hedge transactions. But by that, I mean not only the commodity pieces, but moreover, the FX rates, the ones affecting our transaction exposure, primarily in Brazil, and not to mention the way that price increases took place in different periods of the year in terms of commodity price hikes.

JAMES EDWARDS JONES: Thank you very much.

OPERATOR: Trevor Stirling, Sanford Bernstein.

TREVOR STIRLING, ANALYST, SANFORD BERNSTEIN: A couple questions related to Brazil and one in Central Eastern Europe. You mentioned consumer softness and what you've observed in Brazil. Could you expand a little bit on how you're seeing that softness manifest itself? And the second thing is relating to the phasing of the volume weakness in the Brazilian beer market. You mentioned 2% down for the quarter, but was that heavily weighted towards February and March around the Carnival, or was it more evenly spread across the quarter? If you could give some indication of what the monthly volume numbers would be, that would be great. And the third quarter, your organic price mix in Central Eastern Europe was 7.6%. But looking at the BBH numbers yesterday, they were reporting much higher organic price mix. I wonder is there any reason for that in terms of country mix that would explain the apparent discrepancy.

CARLOS BRITO: Let me go to the first question first. In terms of softness, what we're saying is that we do have a model in Brazil that tries to predict where industry is growing in terms of growth. We know that there are important levers in there. And one of them has to do with available income from especially [C&D] classes. And one of the things that impacts that available income is food inflation, because food inflation for class C&D represent more weight in terms of their budgets. And we have seen in the last four or five months inflation prices accelerating in Brazil, not only in Brazil, but that of course impacts different social classes in different ways. C&D classes are more impacted. That's why I mentioned that (inaudible) salary kicking in now in April, as it does pretty much every year, this time around would have an effect of releasing a little bit (inaudible) our expectation. But we say that because of our model, and also because of what we see in some other consumers, the consumer goods industry in Brazil, like cellphones, ice creams and things that (inaudible) ice cream for example not only by this, but also by the weather patterns, and cellphones also by this available income being pinched a little bit we think by food inflation mainly.

TREVOR STIRLING: Thank you. Very helpful.

CARLOS BRITO: Sorry, but your second question --?

TREVOR STIRLING: The industry was down 2% for the quarter. Could you give me some idea of the phasing across January, February and March?

CARLOS BRITO: March was the worst month, because that's when the weather patterns really -- I would say that up until mid-February things were looking one way. And then after Carnival, things started looking very differently and much poorer. That's why April is such good news, because it really breaks from that pattern. Because March was really the worst of all three months. And the other question was --?

TREVOR STIRLING: Central and Eastern Europe, price mix in Central and Eastern Europe.

CARLOS BRITO: What do you mean price mix? Is that net turnover per hectoliter?

TREVOR STIRLING: Yes. The difference between -- yes. Increase in net turnover per hectoliter.

FELIPE DUTRA: I think it's the comparison between (multiple speakers) BBH, and I'm afraid our footprint is quite different. I don't know to what extent it is comparable (multiple speakers) any comment on their numbers is --

CARLOS BRITO: (inaudible) but on our number, our revenue increase per hectoliter was 8.1% for Central and Eastern Europe, which for us comprises 10 different countries, Russia and Ukraine, of course, being two-thirds of it.

TREVOR STIRLING: Okay.

CARLOS BRITO: Was there a fourth question (multiple speakers)

TREVOR STIRLING: (multiple speakers) thanks very much.

OPERATOR: Nico Lambrechts, Merrill Lynch.

NICO LAMBRECHTS, ANALYST, MERRILL LYNCH: Three questions. Is it possible on your comment of inflation across the region rising to five to six to give us some color what type of costs are now higher than what you estimated three months ago, and maybe in which regions they would be?

CARLOS BRITO: In terms of 2.5 months ago, I think on the commodities side, energy side, everything is higher. The only exception being sugar. Everything else has been on the rise in the last two or three months. So that, together with just share inflation up as well. And that together with lower volumes, that also puts some pressure on the per hectoliter comparison, even on cost of sales, where you have 20 to 30% of that being fixed. So not everything goes up and down nicely with volume. Part of cost of sales (inaudible) and as you have less volume, as we did in his quarter, the per hectoliter basis gets -- of course goes up. But that's --

NICO LAMBRECHTS: So we should assume that your energy and some of the other (inaudible) raw materials are not fully fixed for the year? Is that correct?

CARLOS BRITO: Yes, that's correct. No, it's not. What we normally have fixed are the things that you can hedge (multiple speakers) tradable commodities, like aluminum, sugar, the currency for transactional (inaudible) in Brazil. But other than that, no. We are exposed to (multiple speakers) markets. There are no future markets for a lot of those commodities.

NICO LAMBRECHTS: Understood. In terms of your comment on margin pressure, I know you can't give guidance by region, but could we assume in the second quarter that the regions -- that the same regions that were down in the first quarter would be down, and those that were up would be up, similar regional trends?

CARLOS BRITO: I think that would be too much details for us to give at this point. What I can say is the second quarter will continue -- as stated before, continue to be a tough comp to last year, but better than first quarter. But margin expansion all in the second half of the year.

NICO LAMBRECHTS: In terms of pricing, I would assume that in markets -- emerging markets like result continued Brazil you do not have scoped increased prices further this year. Do you think in markets like Belgium and other markets, more developed markets you have scoped increased prices a second time through the year?

CARLOS BRITO: What we're doing this year is that we are looking -- we've given more attention to pricing because of course all the other cost pressures and margin pressures. But pricing for us, as it should be, is a very local issue. We don't have a global policy. What we try to do is understand each competitive environment, consumers, brands, brand strength, and apply prices as we see fit. So, yes; in some places we believe it can take a second price increase. But at this time, I wouldn't state in which places.

NICO LAMBRECHTS: A final question. In Ukraine, where you are the market leader, you indicated 4% volume growth. I believe the market was growing at 13%. It will probably become more competitive (inaudible) acquisition there, giving them 8% share. Could you give us some color around your outlook for an important market like Ukraine?

(multiple speakers)

CARLOS BRITO: In the Ukraine, we had a tough start. But things are progressing well, and (multiple speakers)

NICO LAMBRECHTS: I understand it's a tough start. Why was it a tough start and what would you do to correct that?

CARLOS BRITO: Our competitor (inaudible) competitor is (inaudible), and they gained share by means of some promotional activities. We lost some share, are not responding to some promotional activities. Now those activities are over and the market is resuming the prior (inaudible). That's why I am saying it's picking up again after the first two months.

NICO LAMBRECHTS: You are the price leader in that market. Have you increased prices this year, and by how much?

CARLOS BRITO: I don't have it here in front of me. But, yes; we led the price increases in Ukraine as it should be. (multiple speakers) Ukraine (inaudible) price increase was 8.5% in April. That was implemented in April, 8.5%.

NICO LAMBRECHTS: A final question. The pricing in Brazil, 5.9%, or net revenue per hectoliter, there's a big portion of mix in that? Is that correct?

CARLOS BRITO: Say it again please.

NICO LAMBRECHTS: The net revenue per hectoliter in Brazil first quarter, 5.9%, which includes your bottle increase in December and your cans only in March. Could one assume that there is some positive mix in that number of 5.9%? That's not all price.

FELIPE DUTRA: There was a price increase in December for bottles of around 5%, and in cans, that took place by the end of February, of 3%. On top of that, there is, in terms of package mix, slightly an increase of cans as a percentage of total mix during the first quarter this year versus last year. But most of the net revenue per hectoliter growth is related to the price increases that took place, respectively, December, March.

NICO LAMBRECHTS: It won't take the 4% and 3% that you mentioned in terms of price. It would probably imply that the price component of that 5.9 is about 4. Do you expect that positive mix, which is quite significant, continues for the rest of the year? Or is that mix effect more a first-quarter trend?

CARLOS BRITO: I'd say what is true is that the can mix goes up in the first quarter of the year because of the whole carnival holiday season, summer season. (inaudible)

NICO LAMBRECHTS: So the mix impact is likely to moderate going forward?

CARLOS BRITO: Again, I don't know if we're talking about the same thing. What I am saying is that the can mix goes up in the summer period. On the other hand, if you look at margins, bottles carry better margins. So you look at top-line, which is true, but if you look at margins, it's not bad when bottles sell more than cans.

NICO LAMBRECHTS: That answers the question, gives me some idea of the dynamics. Thank you very much. (multiple speakers). I got a better understanding of the dynamics. Thanks very much.

OPERATOR: Gerard (inaudible), ING.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: UK and Germany, not really (inaudible) in the first quarter versus first quarter to last year. Can you elaborate on the reasons for this recovery? Second question is on the differences between Brazil; you have extensively analyzed that. And about the Latin American South, there the growth was much stronger, while the Carnival (inaudible) not much different. That's all the questions.

CARLOS BRITO: Starting with the second question, Latin American South, carnival, with exception of Bolivia, doesn't have the same influence. And Bolivia does play a difference. But again, it's a market that is growing very fast, continues to grow very fast. So it was not as noticeable. And the weather was much better. The weather was much better. So, despite being the same continent, the weather pattern that we saw in Brazil that was so bad in the southeast and the northeast of the country, it was very good in the very, very southern part of the continent where Argentina is, and most of the countries where we operate, Chile, Ecuador -- I mean Chile, Bolivia and Paraguay. So, that's the second question.

First question, in terms of recovery -- Western Europe, we saw some positive volumes, 4.1% in the UK, and 3.4% in Germany. Again, it's one quarter. It's good to have positive numbers in Western Europe, but I wouldn't call that in the UK a recovery or anything. I think our guys are doing the right things. Beck's Vier is growing nicely. Stella Artois continues to face some challenge, but it was a good quarter. But I wouldn't say -- shouldn't take that as, okay, problems are solved, things are now all going to be up. No. Too early to say.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: And Germany?

CARLOS BRITO: Germany, volumes are up. We gained some share. The only thing that in Germany didn't happen exactly as our plan is that the Beck's volume, within the total volume, was lower than we had anticipated. So we sold more (inaudible), which is a premium brand of hours, and (inaudible) which is a core brand. So profitability suffered a little bit, despite volumes being healthy.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Thank you.

OPERATOR: [Carl Short], Standard & Poor's Equity Research.

CARL SHORT, ANALYST, STANDARD & POOR'S EQUITY RESEARCH: I wonder if you could give us a bit more detail about the sort of continued loss of market share in China outside of the Sedrin business, and what steps you are taking to address the issues that you've got there.

CARLOS BRITO: Outside of the Sedrin area, as you rightly put it, we on average continue to lose share. We have the situations ranging all the way from joint ventures, where we have no control -- we are partners, but no control; situations where we do control, and we are relaunching brands, substituting for regional brands, and fighting with national competitors present in those territories. So, as I've said many times, in China we are catching up. Not that we don't have a strategy, but we are behind (technical difficulty) national competitors (technical difficulty)

CARL SHORT: I think, from memory, you took full control of one of those partnerships at the beginning of this year. Is that the sort of strategy (multiple speakers)

CARLOS BRITO: Yes. We're about to take control. We haven't signed the final documents, but it's well advanced with Shiliang in the Zhejiang province. That is key in our strategy, because that will allow us to integrate our businesses in that important province, which today we have three different businesses that operate totally independent, sharing no synergies, no brand portfolio, nothing. And with the Shiliang acquisition, again, we are waiting for final approvals from authorities (inaudible) should be resolved in the next weeks or so. Then we're going to be able to integrate it. And it's two pieces in the Zhejiang province, which is our (inaudible) area that we already fully control, and the Shiliang that's more in the middle of the province. We still have one (inaudible) that will be run as a separate business because it's not controlled by us.

CARL SHORT: Is it unrealistic to expect a sort of significant improvement during 2008? Are we going have to wait, maybe, until next year or beyond to see the non-Sedrin business beginning to really perform for you in China?

CARLOS BRITO: I think we'll have to wait more than this year. It will take more than one year.

CARL SHORT: Thank you very much.

OPERATOR: Andrew Holland, Dresdner Kleinwort.

ANDREW HOLLAND, ANALYST, DRESDNER KLEINWORT: Three questions, if I may. Firstly, in relation to the UK and Germany, where volumes were so strong, can you say whether you got price increases in the quarter, and if so, exactly when you put your prices up?

Secondly, you're presumably looking now to buy raw materials for '09, and you'll be doing that presumably progressively over the rest of the year. Given the fact that oil prices are so much higher now than they were perhaps six months ago, barley prices still probably somewhat higher than last yea, what's your outlook for COGS inflation in '09?

And thirdly, you said that you plan to step up the (inaudible). You've in the past described that as a way of life. I'm just wondering where geographically you expect to step up the rate of (inaudible) cost savings.

CARLOS BRITO: In terms of UK and Germany, in the UK, we are increasing our prices in the [off trades], increased that in March. On trades, our plan is to increase that in May. [And in Germany], we're going to go through a price increase that we're planning in May.

ANDREW HOLLAND: Thank you.

CARLOS BRITO: You're right, Western Europe had a good volume development in the quarter, but not all prices were in place yet.

In terms of raw materials for 2009, of course we are -- we have some of our guys already heavily involved in that, because that's the nature of the business. Those guys are always thinking ahead, in terms of costs and [crops] and contracts and stuff. But we're not in a position at this point to give an outlook for COGS for '09. And the third question, (inaudible) Felipe?

FELIPE DUTRA: (inaudible) opportunities across the board, even in zones that are already in a more mature stage as Latin America North, people still find the additional opportunities on top of the budget. Savings will come across all zones. In terms of size -- you should assume that Western Europe and Latin America are the most relevant ones in absolute terms.

ANDREW HOLLAND: Thank you.

OPERATOR: Chris Wickham, MainFirst Bank.

CHRIS WICKHAM, ANALYST, MAINFIRST BANK: Number one, I don't know whether you track weighted market share in beer and in soft drinks, but I was wondering, perhaps in sort of key markets or across the Group, whether you give some indication to what happened to sort of overall market share. Are you as a company gaining, losing share across the board? And then I don't know to what extent do you sort of target looking at sort of actual share of profit pools? Because I presume when you're talking about losing some volumes at the lower end, for example (inaudible) in Russia, and then replacing them with perhaps some volumes further up, you might be losing sort of volume, but you will be gaining share of the pool. I don't know where you are expecting to be on that sort of track, which is less specific, say, to one particular quarter, but looking a bit further ahead, whether you would actually be expecting to be gaining share of profit pools, say, in your top eight to 10 markets.

CARLOS BRITO: Good point. In terms of your second point, share value, it is our stated business intent to always try to move our mix up, the mix enhancements, so we can drive up those margins. We don't have share value measurement in hardly any market, but we have share volume. In some markets we have share value, measured by Nielsen. And you're right; for us that's what at the end of the day we're trying to gain.

In Russia, for example, the way we can track this is by the information we give you concerning our portfolio. So, from our portfolio we know from total volume what's being sold on core and above and value and price. And that's the information we've been giving the last two years, showing that we've been trying to get our mix up. Because in Russia, the industry -- in a way it's unhealthy, because 50% of the industry is in the value and segment price. Especially when you have the kind of cost of sales increase you had this year, you need to accelerate that even further. Because just selling volumes, it's not our business. We're in the business to sell products that add value. In terms of share, of course, we do have the measurement for all the markets. In some markets we have more information; some others we have less. It is our target for internal people we have announced at the beginning of the year that we're putting volume share as target in operating markets. We don't disclose this on a [30] country basis. What we do is we did this press release is that from the main countries, we tend to comment on share figures every quarter, but mostly at the year-end.

CHRIS WICKHAM: You obviously give us very good detail at year-end, (multiple speakers) trying to get a sense of where you are in the opening three months of the year (multiple speakers)

FELIPE DUTRA: (inaudible) some share information we have in some countries, they're based on shipments by the industry. And in those, we -- for external purpose we try to talk about the year, because then, inventory changes will be equalized, and then you have a good reading. That's why we don't [target] every quarter. Like the example in Russia that we're just talking about. In Russia, because we do have an audit of consumer offtake, we use that audit. Because if we only had shipments, you would have some swings whenever there is a price increase because of inventory moves.

CHRIS WICKHAM: Thank you very much.

OPERATOR: Chris Pitcher, Redburn.

CHRIS PITCHER, ANALYST, REDBURN: Could I just clarify (inaudible) the comment you made vis-a-vis the new (inaudible) savings, that those are incremental new cost-saving programs that weren't in previous management budgets, rather than just pulling forward savings?

FELIPE DUTRA: Put in perspective the way we measure the little bit of budget process. It's a very detailed one, as you can imagine. And therefore, we know exactly, in terms of priorities across all departments, the way it was built, the assumptions behind, [challenging] cost and consumption, before focusing always on what we call and define as [nonworking money], not compromising the support behind our brands. We are confident that we can walk that extra mile as a way to deliver on our commitment.

CHRIS PITCHER: A couple more follow-up questions. In terms of the evolution of this year, (inaudible) focus is on pricing, a couple of implications from that. Are you revising your CapEx spend budgets this year in terms of capacity expansion or going forward, because there's maybe more of a focus on pricing and volume? And secondly, other brewers have been pulling forward investment into the first quarter to the detriment of margin. With the potential of future price increases and the importance of supporting those, can we be sure that really these aren't just higher costs of competition than actually pulling forward costs?

FELIPE DUTRA: In terms of CapEx, those are long-term programs, and it's not based on the quarter that we will change direction here. We still work and (inaudible) expected CapEx for the full year within the range of 1.6, EUR1.7 billion, taking into account not only capacity expansion in some of the regions, but everything else, being commercial, investments, being bottles, crates, direct distribution, everything.

CHRIS PITCHER: On this idea that costs are being pulled forward into the first quarter in several markets, and at several other of your competitors, just to give reassurance -- this is genuine costs being pulled forward, rather than just an increased cost of doing business because you're having to support pricing (multiple speakers)

FELIPE DUTRA: We said that was specifically in Latin America North, as phasing of sales and marketing investments, given the early carnival that we had.

CHRIS PITCHER: Finally, on the North American margin, which came through well again -- forgive me if I missed it -- could you give us a feel for what's been the main driver behind that margin growth? You've obviously got good volumes coming through, cost savings. How much incremental profit is starting to come through from the Anheuser-Busch joint venture that may be helping margin out there, exactly where that's accounted for, whether it's the Central or in North America?

CARLOS BRITO: The A-B, the license agreement involving A-B for the European brands in the US is accounted in global headquarters, called global export and holding companies. And North America here is pretty much Canada and Canadian brands being sold in the US. We said that, okay, volume growth was quite positive. We still see good cost management. And as we said, there was a sales and marketing expenses saving, in this case, a delay in investment opposite from Latin America North, that helped to drive EBITDA growth of about 11%, and therefore, [leading to market expansion].

CHRIS PITCHER: Thanks very much.

OPERATOR: (inaudible), (inaudible).

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: (inaudible) question is in Brazil (technical difficulty) the volumes were up 3.1%. But how can you compare that -- do you consider (technical difficulty) being a good month or a bad month? Second question is on the price increase that you had put up in Brazil in the fourth quarter for 2007. You (technical difficulty) didn't seem to have a lot of market share in Brazil. But is this -- is it because you put up some marketing expense up by 22%? And how do you see the competition (inaudible) to your price increases? And maybe the last question on the (inaudible). You said in the past that in year two you will target 5 to 10% of (technical difficulty) programs. You said that (inaudible) will compensate for increased raw material prices. How much can we expect you to target (technical difficulty) of the fix cost? Thank you.

CARLOS BRITO: In terms of -- let me tackle the second one. In terms of price increase in Brazil, it happens pretty much every year, that whenever we increase prices -- and being the market leader, we normally initiate the price increases -- it always takes a while for competition to fall and the market to readjust to the new pricing levels. And we tend to lose share in the months that follow the price increase. But then, at least in the past, including last year, we've always been able to regain that share in a profitable way in the next few months. So we think that this time, as Felipe said, again, as last time, we lost share after the price increase, although the share for the quarter was higher than last year. But last year we also (inaudible) in the first quarter because increased (inaudible) the same way. But we are confident that we can in a profitable way regain that share as we go through the year.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Did you put marketing up by [22]% just not to lose market share that maybe you had lost last year in the same conditions?

CARLOS BRITO: No. I guess this year, what happened in Brazil is that given that most players were pressured by the cost impact, we've seen people -- the other guys moving a bit faster as opposed to a year ago. Having said that, in the can segment, we have more challenges to pass the price increase because they're mostly sold off trade. And that has been an area where there is more sensitivity to price as compared to the bottled beer.

The other question was (multiple speakers)

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: (inaudible) was it a good April in 2007 or a bad April in 2007?

FELIPE DUTRA: Whether or not April '07 was (inaudible) in which the 3.1% (inaudible) this year. And we would say April was a good month.

CARLOS BRITO: Good month in '07.

FELIPE DUTRA: In '07, (inaudible). On the last question, which is (inaudible) related. Put in perspective, we estimate that the required (inaudible) savings to fully offset the upper limit of the range in terms of cost of sales (inaudible) growth meaning 6% being required (inaudible) savings should be around 2%, which is (inaudible) and feasible. That's why we are committing to it.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: (inaudible). Thank you.

OPERATOR: Javier Gonzalez Lastra, Goldman Sachs.

JAVIER GONZALEZ LASTRA, ANALYST, GOLDMAN SACHS: Sorry to come back to the COGS issue. Just looking at your Brazilian business, I just wondered why did you need to buy more from third parties. I would understand that normally you have to -- or you're forced into that situation when you have a strong quarter, but that doesn't seem to have been the case in Q1 in Brazil.

(multiple speakers)

CARLOS BRITO: Sorry if I cut you off. Would you like to complement the question, or is that (multiple speakers)

JAVIER GONZALEZ LASTRA: I'll follow it up later.

CARLOS BRITO: In Brazil, what happened is that, of course, we didn't expect the industry to be what it ended up being in the first quarter. So in December or November of '07, we saw the need to buy extra malt, and we bought imported malt, because we expected a normal quarter. And given that the quarter was not normal in terms of industry, we ended up with a higher cost of malt that was not necessary. Had we known the quarter would be this weak volume-wise, we could have then, as you rightly said, used our own malt. So that was a little bit of an unlucky situation there, because we prepared for a higher volume industry. That volume didn't come, but the cost was already in the inventory and impacted the cost of sales for the quarter.

JAVIER GONZALEZ LASTRA: So that largely explains the 13% that you (multiple speakers)

CARLOS BRITO: No. That's one effect. But of course, what you had in Brazil mainly was corn prices, which is an important component of all our overall raw material mix that was up big-time in Brazil, corn. We had also the third-party malts that I just mentioned. We also had the fixed cost absorption that, because of the lower volumes, 20 to 30% of cost of sales is fixed. So as you have lower volumes and a poor hectoliter basis, that cost goes up because it's less diluted. So you put all those things up, and a couple of other more things, and you get to that 13% on beer. On the other hand, on soft drinks, (inaudible) declined cost of sales compared to last year by 7%. Because sugar was pretty much the only commodity that went down in pricing, and that's for soft drinks an important component.

JAVIER GONZALEZ LASTRA: So already into the second quarter we should start to see some significant improvement then, not just because the comparative base is easy, as you mentioned, but because of this technicality basically working through (multiple speakers)

CARLOS BRITO: [If one] picks up, of course, the fixed cost absorption gets easier because it gets more diluted. Corn prices will continue to be high. There's nothing at this point saying that corn prices will be lower for the second quarter. And the third-party malt should be more diluted because, again, it was something that impacted and was used in the first quarter.

JAVIER GONZALEZ LASTRA: So we should basically start to see some improvement then in the second quarter. But I guess the third and fourth quarters are basically the ones that you are expecting a much easier comparison base because barley prices on all these commodities were much higher in the second half of '07 than (multiple speakers)

CARLOS BRITO: That's why we said that in terms of cost of sales growth on a quarter-by-quarter basis compared with last year, we should see from now on, into the next quarters, that cost of sales growth going down, because of some of the things you said. Yes.

JAVIER GONZALEZ LASTRA: In terms of currency benefits, you should definitely see some offsetting from the strength of the Brazilian real, no?

FELIPE DUTRA: Yes. That will show up throughout the quarters of '08, starting now in '07. There was a positive component on that embedded into the -13.1, and the same should take place during the coming quarters.

JAVIER GONZALEZ LASTRA: Thank you.

OPERATOR: There are no further questions registered at this time. I will hand the conference back to you.

CARLOS BRITO: Thank you very much for your time, for your attention, and we'll talk to you next quarter. Thanks a lot.

OPERATOR: Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for your participation today. This concludes today's conference. You may now disconnect your lines. Thank you.

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Company / organization: Name: Thomson Financial; NAICS: 551111

Publication title: Fair Disclosure Wire; Linthicum

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 8, 2008

Publisher: CQ Roll Call

Place of publication: Linthicum

Country of publication: United States, Linthicum

Publication subject: Business And Economics, Law--Corporate Law

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

ProQuest document ID: 466146823

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Copyright: 2008 CCBN, Inc. and FDCH e-Media, Inc.

Last updated: 2018-02-21

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 161 of 313

Q1 2008 AmBev - Companhia de Bebidas Das Americas Earnings Conference Call - Final

Publication info: Fair Disclosure Wire ; Linthicum [Linthicum]08 May 2008.

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Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

OPERATOR: Good morning and thank you for waiting. We would like to welcome everyone to AmBev's first quarter 2008 earnings conference call. Today with us we have Mr. Luiz Fernando Edmond, CEO for Latin America, Mr. Graham Staley, CFO and Investor Relations Officer, Mr. Joao Castro Neves, CEO for Quinsa, and Mr. Bernardo Paiva, CEO for North America. (OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS).

Before proceeding, let me mentioned that forward-looking statements are being made under the Safe Harbor of the Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1996. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs and assumptions of AmBev's management and on information currently available to the Company. They involve risks, uncertainties and assumptions because they relate to future events and therefore depend on circumstances that may or may not occur in the future. Investors should understand that general economic conditions, industry conditions and other operating factors could also affect the future results of AmBev and could cause results to differ materially from those expressed in such forward-looking statements.

Now I'll turn the conference call over to Mr. Graham Staley, CFO and Investor Relations Officer. Mr. Staley, you may begin your conference.

GRAHAM STALEY, CFO AND IR OFFICER, AMBEV: Thank you, Elsa. And good morning, good afternoon everyone. I'm pleased to be with you today to discuss our 2008 first quarter results. As usual, I would like to start the call by sharing a brief overview of the quarter, and then Luiz Fernando, Joao and Bernardo will provide you with an overview of our results in Brazil, HILA-ex, Quinsa and North America. I will close by providing more specifics regarding the first quarter financials.

Before I start, I would just like to remind you that all the numbers are in Brazilian GAAP and that the percentage changes used in this call are on an organic basis. So let's turn straight away to the results.

During the first quarter, our consolidated EBITDA reached almost BRL2.1b, which represents a 4.9% growth when compared to the first quarter of 2007, driven by strong results in Quinsa and North America, and good EBITDA performance in our Brazil CSD and NANC business, but offset by weak volumes in Brazil Beer following a general slowdown in the Brazilian beverage industry during the first quarter.

The Brazilian business had a challenging first quarter compared to 2007, with Beer volumes declining by 1.9%, and CSD and NANC volumes declining by 1.4%. Luiz Fernando will be providing you with more detail of the key drivers in a few moments. Lower than expected volumes resulted in a less favorable fixed cost absorption which, together with malt and corn costs and the timing of beer market investments, resulted in a marginal Brazil EBITDA decline of 0.7% for the quarter.

Our Quinsa operations continued to deliver strong operational and financial results, as EBITDA grew 29.3% on the back of Beer volume growth of 10.7% and CSD and NANC volumes growth of 8.5%. In Canada, despite a tough competitive environment, domestic volumes grew by 1.5%, leading to market share gains and resulting in an EBITDA growth of 9.7%. Net income grew by 15.2%, reaching BRL744m, and earnings per share, excluding goodwill amortization, grew by 22.1%. I will comment further on net income at the end of this presentation.

I will now hand over to Luiz Fernando as we start to look a little deeper into the results of each of the operations.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND, CEO, LATIN AMERICA, AMBEV: Thank you, Graham. Hello everyone. I will now provide you with details regarding the Brazilian and HILA-ex operations Beer Brazil. Our first quarter results were below expectations as we faced beverage industry slowdown due to three main factors. Firstly, an expected and unusually cold and wet weather. Secondly, an early carnival. And finally, higher core food prices which have put pressure on consumer disposable income. The slowdown was not visible until well into the quarter since the early carnival led to strong volumes in the first 45 days.

Our Beer net revenues per hectoliter in Brazil reached BRL151.7, a growth of 5.9% when compared to the BRL144.7 last year, reported in the first quarter 2007. This increase probably reflects our price increase in December, as well as an increase in our direct distribution network and the continued excellent performance of our premium brands which grew around 9% in the quarter.

We completed implementation of our price increases for cans and long necks after carnival. And due to strong and focused execution we were able to deliver market share growth of 20 basis points year over year, reaching leverage of 67.8% in the quarter. We're very pleased with this result in such a difficult first quarter for the industry.

Our Beer COGS per hectoliter grew 13.1%. In addition to the [disappointing] increase in malt and corn, cellar inflation and the benefits of currency, Q1 COGS were impacted by the purchase of third party malt, and the less favorable fixed cost absorption due to lower volumes. As the year progressed, we expect to see considerable improvement in Beer COGS for the year, from both more favorable hedging gains and our planned productivity and efficiency initiatives already in place.

The SG&A, excluding depreciation and amortization, grew by 17.4%, due principally to the timing of certain marketing programs and investment. For example, our Skol investment with [Genero], where we sold a giant branded ferris wheel for a month during carnival. It was very successful in bringing the consumers even closer to the brand. The launch of our 630ml proprietary bottles in Rio for Skol which is perceived by consumers as the most relevant innovation in returnable packaging in the Brazilian market. And the [Primero] campaign which reinforced the brand proposition to its consumers and the rollout of [Rima Fresh] into additional five states in the north east region. SG&A was also impacted by inflation and the growth of direct distribution.

Although there will be some quarterly evaluations in the timing of marketing spend during 2008, we expect full year SG&A, excluding appreciation and amortization, for both Beer and soft drinks to continue to grow in line with volume growth, the increase in our distribution and inflation. The EBITDA finished the quarter 4.7% below Q1 2007, with EBITDA margin contracting 430 basis points, but it's still reaching 47.5%.

2008 will remain a challenging year, but we believe there will be a return to industry growth as the year progresses. In fact, we saw an early sign of this in April, with Beer volumes growing 3.1%. We are confident we have the right people and commercial plans in place to recover market share during the year. Furthermore, a more favorable phasing of our selling and marketing investments, plus our currency hedge, will improve profitability as the year progresses. Last but not least, the market in the remainder of the year should perform better than the first quarter.

Turning to Brazil CSD and NANC, net revenues per hectoliter grew 5.8% in the period. The cold and wet weather impacted volumes, particularly for Gatorade and H2O, with an overall decline of 1.4%. However, we are pleased to see that the average market share grew to 17.7% for the quarter, 40 basis points higher than last year.

We continue to invest in soft drinks innovation for the launch of new products and packages. And the first quarter saw the launch of our new H2O apple flavor and the [Supita Grape]. Soft drinks COGS per hectoliter decline by 7% in the quarter as a result of our anticipated hedge gains in sugar and currency, partly offset by fixed cost absorption. As the year progresses, the benefits from our hedges and our planned productivity and efficiency initiatives will help to improve the soft drinks COGS results even further. Soft drinks SG&A expenses in Q1 grew by only 1.7% when compared to last year as a result of the favorable timing of investments. This has helped to deliver very strong EBITDA result, as 23% higher than last year with an improvement EBITDA margin of 44%.

Looking forward, despite some short-term slowdown in the industry, we continue to see good opportunity in the soft drinks business in terms of market share and profitability and no concerns to invest in this sector. We are well positioned for the future.

Let me now turn to HILA-ex. The region generated an EBITDA loss of BRL15.5m for the quarter. The beer business continues to show good volume growth of 7%, principally due to double-digit growth in Peru, Ecuador and Dominican Republic which was partly offset by the market challenge we continue to face in Venezuela. The HILA-ex CSD business delivers more positive EBITDA as we reposition our brands to better address local market conditions.

Our strategy in the region remains unchanged. Beer volumes and share are both progressing. We are reducing the fixed cost in the business and are nearing EBITDA and cash flow neutrality, giving us the confidence and flexibility to pursue our long-term goals.

In conclusion, Q1 was certainly a very difficult quarter and the challenge will remain for the rest of 2008. However, we have confidence in the long-term health of the Brazilian economy and the beverage industry. With this in mind, we will continue to invest behind our business in terms of both brands and people. We will rely upon the strength of our portfolio and our core competencies of precise execution in the market, pricing discipline and cost management. Our people are ready for the challenge and I have confidence in their ability to deliver as we have done in the past.

I will now turn the call to Joao who will talk about the Quinsa business.

JOAO CASTRO NEVES, CEO, QUINSA, AMBEV: Thank you, Luiz. And good morning everyone. Our beer and soft drinks operation maintained the growth trends observed in 2007 during the first quarter of 2008, achieving higher volumes in every country where we operate. Consolidated margins increased 9.7 organically in the quarter, based on excellent performance of both the beer and the soft drink business. Our volume growth was 10.4% in the case of beer, and 8.5% in soft drinks.

Our double-digit growth in Bolivia and Paraguay, the continuous growth of Argentina and Uruguay and the recovery of Chile results in an impressive quarter in terms of volumes. Net revenues per hectoliter grew organically, both in beer and soft drinks, as a result of higher price throughout the region and a strong performance of our premium brands. The Company performed particularly well in the premium segment in Argentina, with Stella Artois and Iguana posting outstanding growth ranges. Stella Artois has also performed above the rest of the portfolio in Chile and Uruguay. In the case of Paraguay, it is the Brahma brand, the one that over-performed the rest, accounting for important volume growth of our business.

Analyzing the individual beer markets, Argentina posted its all-time high record in the quarter in terms of volume, even exceeding the volumes reached before the divesture of the two brands due to the antitrust requirements. The Company performed very well all over the country, gaining market share in a growing and competitive market.

The Bolivian business continued to post strong growth rate in an uncertain operating environment. Performance has been particularly well in the main cities of La Paz and [Cochabamba]. We took advantage of industry volume records, with our market share remaining stable. We focused on some product innovation, like Pacena Red Lager and (inaudible) to keep strengthening our core brands and increasing the per capita.

Chile showed an important recovery in the quarter, mainly based on a growing industry. Our premium brands performed very well in a country where the premium segment continues to grow.

The beer market in Paraguay posted solid growth which allowed us to show a strong recovery in terms of volume. The comparison with last year is [positive] due to better weather conditions, the dengue epidemic, the disease that was spread out last year, and the increasing activity related to elections. We kept implementing actions to defend our market share from imported beers. The Brahma brand had excellent performance in the quarter, gaining market share and becoming the most significant penetration of our global brands within the region.

Our beer business in Uruguay has also performed very well, reflecting volume growth but stable market share and strong performance by our premium brand attrition.

In soft drinks we had an excellent quarter of volume, with market share gains in both markets of Argentina and Uruguay. In Argentina, the Pepsi brand grew within the A segment of the business, while the H2oH and Gatorade brands delivered very important growth rates as well. H2oH gained market share compared to the excellent performance of its citrus flavor.

Regarding our cost and SG&A expenses, the initiative to mitigate the negative effect of higher cost of raw materials for the metal and soft drinks, transportation and labor, are focused in achieving industrial and procurement efficiency, as well as consolidating our ZBB efforts.

Solid growth rates in all the markets where we operate, together with focused revenue management cost initiatives, have resulted in EBITDA organic growth of 29.3% in the quarter, with a 46.7% EBITDA margin.

I'd like to end my comments by congratulating my team for setting a tough challenge and over-delivering again. We have been able to show high growth rates despite the tough comparison of a very successful 2007. I am confident we will continue to [understand], based on the strength of our brand and the excellence of our people, products and market execution.

I would now like to turn over to Bernardo.

BERNARDO PAIVA, CEO, NORTH AMERICA, AMBEV: Thank you, Joao. Hello everyone. Looking at the first quarter, I am happy to say that Labatt delivered results consistent to our goal of growing EBITDA with no cost on market share. On EBITDA, we grew 9.7% in the quarter on an organic basis. That growth came from top line, driven by share growth, price in line with the industry, and from phasing on our marketing sales investments. I fully expect to use this marketing money in the coming three quarters to support our top line initiatives. On market share, we grew by 0.4 share points in the quarter on a pro-forma basis, and 0.3 share points on an organic basis for the first time since the third quarter '04. I am happy to see that consistent for our strategy, all of our key brands, Budweiser, [Keats], Lakeport, Bud Light and Stella, grew share in the quarter.

Looking ahead, I know that '08 will be a tough year, so we continue to focus on fuel and big things. I am confident that our top-line strategy of focused investments in key brands, of effective trade products that deliver market share, of certain, safe execution and disciplined revenue management is paying off. Looking at market share, Canada has a very competitive market, and you can be sure that the other companies will try to recover shares during the high volume summer months. However, we are ready to fight the fight. On the cost side, the cost of inputs continues to be a concern. In the first quarter they drove up our cost per hectoliter. In the rest of '08 you could take a higher hit from input price, in line with industry trends. We push hard on the costs in order to partially offset it. I am more and more confident in the skills and the will of our team to deliver EBITDA growth with no cost of our market share.

Now I'd like to go back to Graham.

GRAHAM STALEY: Thank you, Bernardo. In this final section I would like to guide you through the main lines between the reported EBIT of BRL1.7b and the net income of BRL744m, as disclosed on page 16 of our release.

Other operational income and expense was a net expense of BRL285m in the quarter, compared to an expense of BRL370m in the same period last year. This decrease on expense is primarily due to translation gains on foreign investments reported by Quinsa, resulting from the depreciation of the Argentinean peso against other Latin American currencies. Higher goodwill amortization on the acquisitions of Lakeport and Cintra in 2007, a change in the amortization curve for Labatt, and the acquisition of an increased stake in Quinsa in 2008 partly offset these gains.

Our net debt at the end of the quarter stood at BRL8.2b, compared to BRL7.4b at the end of 2007 Q1. The drivers of this increase were the acquisition of the increased stake in Quinsa for around BRL617m, and our share buybacks, which amounted to around BRL515m in the period. Our net financial result was an expense of BRL272m, compared to BRL296m in Q1 last year. Marginally lower interest rates and the ending of CPMF in Brazil drove this improvement.

The provision for income tax and social contribution was an expense of BRL341m, versus BRL423m last year. This increase is mainly the result of improved earnings before taxes, higher interest on own capital, and certain one-time charges recorded in Q1 2007.

Net profit per 1,000 shares in the quarter amounted to BRL1.22, compared to BRL1.03 in Q1 2007. When we exclude goodwill amortization, earnings per share rose 22.1% in the first quarter, to BRL2.02.

Regarding our pay out strategy, our policy of distributing all excess cash generated, if we cannot identify value-enhancing alternative uses within the business, remains unchanged. As I mentioned earlier, during the first quarter we returned to shareholders approximately BRL515m in share buybacks. We will continue to review the balance between dividends and share buybacks on an ongoing basis, taking into account markets and industry norms and the impact on shareholder value.

In closing, AmBev once again reported EBITDA growth in the first quarter, with strong performances in Quinsa and North America, helping to offset the challenges we faced in Brazil. We have robust business plans in place for the rest of the year, addressing both top-line growth and costs, and will be leaning heavily on our strong execution capabilities as the year progresses.

I will now hand back to Elsa as we open up for questions.

OPERATOR: (OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS). Our first question is coming from Andrea Teixeira with JP Morgan. Please go ahead.

ANDREA TEIXEIRA, ANALYST, JP MORGAN: Hi. Good morning everyone. I just wanted to have you give us a sense of how, given that this is the second most important quarter of the year, how you're looking for -- and I understand from your prepared comments that you have a plan, and looking for the SG&A increases in Brazil, how you see the effectiveness of these marketing campaigns so that you can recover the volumes throughout the year.

I also understand that you are facing the second most important quarter is the fourth quarter. You are facing tough comparisons. How are you going to be looking -- how we should be looking in terms of volumes for beer in 2008?

And in terms of competition as well, pricing? Thank you.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Hi Andrea. This is Luiz. So -- well, let me first say something on the volume piece. Of course, I think we made it very clear during the speeches and in our press releases that this is not a regular quarter. First Q was disappointing for us in terms of industry volume. But we have to accept the fact that the weather didn't help. The weather is basically the biggest negative effect that we have. I think for those that are Brazilians that live here in the country, you have the opportunity to see, to read and to live in such a very bad weather.

And, of course, carnival is not something unexpected. We knew the calendar. But the fact is the earlier the carnival happens, the earlier the year starts for everyone. So schools start before, then you have all the expenses for the school. People get back to their regular routines. So when you have such bad weather, that impacted mostly -- most of the regions, but it's specifically south east and south even more. And you have early carnival in the year. It's clear that the first Q does not represent our expectations for the year, though it's disappointing for us, of course.

ANDREA TEIXEIRA: And in terms of the pricing, Luiz, thank you so much for your comment, but in terms of the pricing, we saw that some of your competitors delayed even more in your second tranche of the price increase in March. Can you comment if they're following that and if you're seeing the price gap reducing? Hello?

OPERATOR: We do ask that you please hold the line one moment as the conference will begin momentarily. We do ask that you please stay connected, the conference will resume momentarily. Thank you. Their line is now live. (OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS). We will resume with Andrea Teixeira. Please proceed with your question.

ANDREA TEIXEIRA: Yes. Thank you very much. So I was just following up of what Luiz was saying in terms of pricing -- I mean the volumes. Just on his comment, so I would like to know more about the pricing strategy. I understand that the Company has placed two price increases in the last couple of months, one in December and another one in March. And if competitors seem to have delayed the price increase so there's some possible momentum if they do increase prices now, which I believe they are doing. So if you can comment on the price environment, I would appreciate it. Thank you.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Yes, Andrea. The price environment I said didn't change from our last call. We increased prices in [internals] during December in different moments for the brands. Most of our competitors followed that price increase during January and February. Not all of them, but most of them. Then we wait until carnival to increase can prices this year. We did that. But unfortunately most of our competitors didn't follow the price. So the gap opened a little bit in can prices.

We don't know yet what's going to happen. We heard some of them in their results announcement say that they did increase prices at the end of March. We haven't seen that so far in the market. We have to wait and see if they are under pressure or not in terms of cost and how they are going to react to the can prices.

But even though our share in the first Q was higher than last year, and it's not only the comparison against last year, but it's also the comparison in the moment before the price increase and the moment after the price increase. So when you compare how much we lost during this period, we lost only 60% of the losses we had from '06 to '07. So we think we did a good implementation of the price and we put several and are still putting out several initiatives in the market to recover the same level at the end of last year. So environment for beer is pretty much the same that we had last quarter.

ANDREA TEIXEIRA: Okay, Luiz. And if you can comment, I understand that you had a market share, it's about to be released, the market share for April. Can you give us an idea of what that was?

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: I wish I could, but I don't have the number. So it's probably going to be issued in the next couple of days and you'll know as soon as we have it. We -- of course, we have our own numbers. We track them, we monitor, but it's very difficult to predict. But I would say we continue positive that we'll recover share during the year as we've done last year, in 2006, in 2005. So we have the skills, we have the people and the programs in place to recover the share.

ANDREA TEIXEIRA: Okay. Thank you very much, Luiz.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: You're welcome, Andrea.

OPERATOR: Thank you. And our next question is coming from Lore Serra with Morgan Stanley. Please go ahead.

LORE SERRA, ANALYST, MORGAN STANLEY: Yes. Hi. Good morning everyone. I wanted to start with looking at the COGS per hectoliter, the increase that you saw in the quarter of 13%. In the InBev call earlier they mentioned that you had bought some malt at the end of the year because of the strong fourth quarter that you didn't end up needing because of the volume trends, but that caused your costs to be higher. I guess I'd love to understand, have you used up all of that higher cost malt. And if you could help us understand what your cost inflation would have been had you not had that higher malt cost in the first quarter.

GRAHAM STALEY: Good morning, Lore. It's Graham Staley. Yes, the 13.1% was driven by a combination of things. We knew about the cost of malt in general terms. We knew we'd got a higher cost of corn, salary inflation, all of that being offset by the benefits of currency that we also anticipated. We're not self-sufficient in malt in Brazil as you well know. So we did have to buy some malt at some point during the year.

We took the decision to buy that early in the year. That's basically a procurement decision based on what we think the trends are going to be. It happened to coincide with that soft volume performance, so it meant we were basically using higher priced third party malt during the first quarter.

Substantially used up, I couldn't give you a percentage, but substantially used. There may be a little bit left. We have a small amount to buy for the rest of the year, but it's small. So therefore our barley and malt costs are now very predictable for the balance of the year because we won't have this further purchase of third party malt impacting.

Also as the year progresses, of course, we're hoping for better volumes and that will obviously help on fixed cost absorption as well. So as we look forward at the COGS, as I say, most of our commodity cost we now know, coupled with the productivity and efficiency initiatives that Luiz mentioned, we have very good visibility on these COGS as the year progresses.

LORE SERRA: But I guess I'd love to understand, and maybe it's hard for you to break out what the cost of that third party malt is, but it seemed like it's awfully early in the year for you to be feeling lots of inflation from malt and barley if you're hedging one year forward, given that a lot of the grains pressure we see, at least in the publicly traded quotes was in the second half of the year. So can you just explain to us, was it just that malt, barley effect from the third party malt, or is there something else that's causing the commodity inflation to be so much disproportionately felt in the early part of the years?

GRAHAM STALEY: Let me make it very clear, we're not self-sufficient on malt, so we do have to buy some malt. It's a small percentage, between 10% to 20% that we have to purchase. We have to purchase that at some point during the year. We've purchased it in the first quarter. So that cost is obviously higher than our own produced malt because there's no profit margin for the third parties of our own produced malt.

That cost is now in the books. It's out of the way. There's a tiny bit of it to use up. But substantially the malt we will use in the future is based on our barley hedges that are already in place, and that's our own malt production. So we know what those costs are going to be. So you shouldn't be seeing a third party malt impact in remaining quarters.

LORE SERRA: Okay. And one more question on this if I could and then I wanted to ask another question. So what I'm understanding is that you have a good sense of what your costs are for the grains. And if we strip out the malt and barley effect of this third party in the first quarter, you would see a more stable environment for COGS per hectoliter for the rest of the year?

GRAHAM STALEY: Yes. The three drivers, then I'll summarize it, the three drivers was the third party malt, not barley, third party malt. That cost will go away as we now go into the remaining three quarters. There was some increased corn cost which we can't hedge because there's insufficient market to hedge corn. We're seeing corn costs coming down which is positive for us. And the third part or the third driver in the first quarter was fixed cost absorption. Obviously we expect volumes to improve.

We've closed our numbers, as you well know. And we still keep our guidance that AmBev, as a whole, will keep its cost of goods per hectoliter below the weighted average inflation rate, and Brazil obviously clearly will be well below, but low inflation will also offset some of the challenges in other parts of the Group.

I might as well deal here with sugar, while we're on the line. Sugar you will see continued good performance from the CSD and NANC business because sugar is favorable as we look forward with our hedges, and in the -- so is currency with the CSD and NANC business. So cost of goods per hectoliter on the CSD and NANC will certainly improve as well.

LORE SERRA: Okay, perfect. That's helpful. And just in terms of what are using as your target, or your estimate rather, for weighted average inflation in your franchises for '08?

GRAHAM STALEY: All that is, simply, we look at our cost of goods by market and then we take the CPI in those markets and we do a weighted average calculation.

LORE SERRA: Yes, I'm just asking what is the number for '08?

GRAHAM STALEY: That comes out at around 5%.

LORE SERRA: 5% okay. And just if I could ask quickly to Luiz Fernando, you mentioned that competitors lag their price increase in the supermarkets. And I know that some have, but it seems like the market share in March was lost to Schincariol. And maybe it's anecdotal, but I didn't see that when I was recently in Brazil that their prices looked like they lagged. So can you comment specifically on why you think Schincariol took as much share in March, if it's -- is it nationwide they lag pricing? Do you see them moving pricing? That would be helpful.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Well, in terms of returnables, Schincariol follows our prices, in cans not really. So, after our price increase in -- since our price increase mid-February until now, we haven't seen any competitor, most of the volume from our competitors increasing can prices, alright? So, what is different here is that [Schincariol] did not follow any price increase, both in cans, nor in -- no, not in cans nor in returnables compared to last year, according to the news update we have and according to what we see in the market so far.

LORE SERRA: Okay, thank you.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Welcome.

OPERATOR: Thank you. Our next question is coming from Robert Ford with Merrill Lynch. Please go ahead.

ROBERT FORD, ANALYST, MERRILL LYNCH: Thank you. Good day, everybody. Luiz Fernando, I had a question with respect to any evidence, anecdotal or otherwise, of a stepped up environment of tax evasion amongst some of the less formal brewers in Brazil.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Can you repeat the question once more?

ROBERT FORD: Yes, Luiz. I'm hearing that there could be some stepped up kind of evasion activity amongst some of the less formal brewers in Brazil. And there's even talk in the trade with respect to complete breweries that are off flow monitors. Is there any evidence of that, anecdotal or otherwise?

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: I don't know exactly what you're mentioning, but I think the environment in Brazil has improved a lot since the flow meter's implementation. You look at the tax collection from the Federal Government and that improves a lot since 2004, 2005, ahead of industry growth. So that's what we see so far.

Of course, we don't have any guarantee of that the system's perfect and all the tax collection is being made from all of the competitors. So we still have reasons to believe that it hasn't been solved completely in the Beer side, and the CSD side we haven't seen implementation of the flow meters yet. That's what I can mention to you.

ROBERT FORD: Great, thank you. And then the next question was really with respect to the opportunities that you see in Argentina. And I was wondering, Joao, very impressed with the revenue management activity in Argentine CSDs. What other opportunities of that magnitude continue to be out there for you and Quinsa?

JOAO CASTRO NEVES: Hi, Bob. Well, basically, as I was saying before, in Argentina we are -- have been taking advantage of somewhat rude economic condition. This economic condition is giving much more purchasing power to middle class and low income classes, which is leaving a good opportunity for trading up.

So what you're seeing the top line, you're seeing two things. One is, in one side, affordable products. A lot of people that need to have much -- potentially they need to have much higher prices and it's impacting their volume growth. We have prices in line with inflation and just by having in line with inflation it's having a very good impact on volume. So that's one positive effect.

The second positive effect, because people also have more purchasing power, they are trading up. So you are seeing volume growth rates of premium brands above 50%, 60%. And from year against year, the segment is doubling its percentage in terms of the mix participation. So that's also a boost in volume and also a boost in our sales per hectoliter.

Looking forward a little bit, we have in 2008 so far with good economic condition as well as good weather, when last year we had good economic conditions and bad weather. So it's a good comparison, looks like it's going to stay for some time. So I think we will continue to benefit from the same things. There is also leadership in concern of capturing margin from trade and from distribution, so we are also benefiting from some of that. Slightly increased in terms of the (inaudible) distribution participation. So I think those are the good news.

If you like what -- why worry about them then? I think the worry is whether those conditions change, which we don't foresee for the moment. But I mean it's a type of a roller-coaster situation. Right now, I think the Company's prepared to take full advantage. I think we should continue to see this going forward as long as the marketplace remains the same.

What we are also doing, which I think is very interesting, is the launch of new products. We launched last year Quilmes Stout, which, very quickly became almost the third most important product we have. We just launched it now, last week, Red Lager, which is another innovation and I mean [dispensaries] were very excited. And the same thing is happening in CSD. CSD, we had also launched new higher margin products. We launched last year [Flotel], with a concept of non-sugar isotonic, which also quickly took 10% of the mix with a higher price. New products in the H20H! line, with also higher margins. So very healthy pipeline, healthy product innovation pipeline and new products. So I think those are the main points that we have going on right now and going forward in the short term.

ROBERT FORD: No, it sounds great. Thank you very much, Joao.

JOAO CASTRO NEVES: Yes.

OPERATOR: Thank you. Our next question is coming from Alex Robarts with Santander. Please go ahead.

ALEX ROBARTS, ANALYST, SANTANDER: Hi, everybody. Yes, I wanted just to go back to the cash SG&A in Brazil, the year. I mean I guess in prior calls you've given a sense of how to model this going in line with inflation and volume growth curve. But I have to say that in the last couple of quarters there seems to be a pretty important disconnect. Cash SG&A fourth quarter fell, or flat, you had very good volumes, and in this past quarter, seasonally strong quarter, you've had a [surge] in this cash SG&A and falling volumes. And, I guess, just trying to get a handle on what's really going with your spend. Do -- I mean if you could give us some color. I mean are you basically trying to put more money behind brand equity initiatives? In other words, rather than volume activation efforts, is it really just behind maybe some of your premium brands? Just if you could give us some sense of really why are we seeing such a disconnect here between volume and the cash SG&A?

GRAHAM STALEY: Okay, good morning Alex. It's Graham Staley. I'll take a shot at this, then I'll hand over to Luiz who'll talk about the brand building side. It is very difficult to use that algorithm on a quarterly basis. But, if you recall from the Q4 call, I did stress it was an annual algorithm. So that basically, if you take the full year, both in soft drinks and beer, you will see SG&A growing in line with about 30% of the volume growth in line with inflation and plus a small amount for direct distribution expansion.

As you know, we have very detailed plans, very detailed forecasting models. We know exactly what we are going to spend for the rest of the year and that algorithm still holds true as far as we are concerned. Now, individual quarters, the commercial guys clearly take decisions based on opportunities that they see for the brands or in particular marketplaces. And so it's very difficult for you to model it on a quarterly basis but, annually, the algorithm holds.

And I'll hand over to Luiz who may have some specific comments on timing of expense.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Yes, hi Alex.

ALEX ROBARTS: Hi.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: First, it's important that you understand that we are competing in such a very, very competitive market today. So we cannot become very predictable, because if we are very predictable for you we are predictable also for our competitors. So we are competing with some companies they are learning how to compete, they learn from our practice, they are very active in the market. So this is, first, learning.

Then, the issue you are right that if you go back last year, for the third quarter we spent more than you could imagine, then in the fourth quarter we came down again because we decided to anticipate some of the initiatives for the pre-summer initiatives and to prepare our market to the summer. This year, we decide to anticipate a little bit because we had the price increase not, not in the same way as last year. And we had an earlier carnival this year, so we knew our competitors would concentrate a lot of money in the first few. So it's also how our competition concentrates or not their investments during the year.

So, yes, it doesn't have to do with a higher level of investment. Of course, we continue to increase investments as our volume progresses, and of course as the profitability of the business becomes more attractive. And for our competitors it is the same, we have to maintain our brands performing well. We have to maintain our market programs and we have to increase our share of the market. So it's nothing to do with a long-term shift in terms of how we are supporting the commercial initiatives. But it has to do with moving the initiatives back and forth, sometimes postponing, sometimes anticipating, but looking at the market how it's going and the best ways to invest the money in the market.

ALEX ROBARTS: So you -- it'd be fair then to look at the full year '08 cash SG&A for beer and soft drinks you mentioned earlier to be in line with, roughly in line with the volume growth, plus inflation? I mean is that the algorithm as you are going to discuss it for '08?

GRAHAM STALEY: Yes, let me clarify that again. Roughly 30% of the volume growth translates into a growth in SG&A. So if volume growth is 3% or 5%, then the SG&A would grow by 1% or 1.5%. We then add on inflation, 4% to 5%, plus a small amount between 1% and 2% for the expansion of direct distribution. That algorithm has proved reliable for the last two or three years and we see no reason to deviate from it in 2008.

ALEX ROBARTS: Okay. And just the second and last question. Graham, I know you've had a chance to take a look at some of your beer, your raw material cost into at least the future prices for the first part of '09. And could you give us a sense of roughly how that might be looking if you take, let's say, the first three or four months of the prices that you've seen in that future market for your inputs in '09 versus where you've just finished here in the first three or four months of '08?

GRAHAM STALEY: I think I'd prefer not to at this point in time. I think it's a little bit early to do that. I don't want to flag up too much for competition either. We do have a -- we do have an understanding of it, as you say, for the first four months, but I think I'd prefer to wait until later in the year to give you some insight into that.

ALEX ROBARTS: Okay. Fair enough. Thanks.

OPERATOR: Thank you. Our next question is coming from Celso Sanchez with Citigroup. Please go ahead.

CELSO SANCHEZ, ANALYST, CITIGROUP: Yes, hi. My first question actually, sorry to go back to the barley issue, but just to understand the mechanics behind that third party purchase. I understand that you said you purchased it back in the third quarter, if I understood you correctly. And, if that's the case, did that therefore effectively weigh on margins in some way since it was a higher part of the mix in '07 for the fourth quarter? And that, given the volume and revenue performance you had, it diluted it that much more? Does that -- is that the right way to think about it?

GRAHAM STALEY: Hi, Celso, good morning. No, I don't think we said it was Q3. It was at the end of 2007, beginning of 2008 when we purchased it.

CELSO SANCHEZ: Okay.

GRAHAM STALEY: We've revised and it effects the average costs that we incur for the quarter, and that's why you've seen that increase in cost of goods for that first quarter.

CELSO SANCHEZ: Okay.

GRAHAM STALEY: And just to clarify it's substantially used and we've only got a small amount more to buy on the market and that will obviously depend on volumes.

CELSO SANCHEZ: Okay. And, whereas last year, you presumably also had to buy third party, you bought it at different time of the year and obviously at a different price.

GRAHAM STALEY: Yes, Celso, it depends on availability, it depends on pricing.

CELSO SANCHEZ: Fair enough. Okay. The second question is --

JOAO CASTRO NEVES: Celso, let me explain something. We were, in the fourth quarter last year, volumes were growing very fast, right?

CELSO SANCHEZ: Right.

JOAO CASTRO NEVES: We had to make a decision because if the first Q had performed same way as fourth Q, then we needed the malt to complement or to on top of the own malt that we produce. Of course, when you take the balance of the year, we don't need as much malt, right? But, in the first Q, we had the imported malt to guarantee that could produce the volume according to our expectations. That didn't happen, but we used the malt anyway, right? That's exactly what happened. So we are already used the imported malt. We don't need the same amount for the rest of the year.

CELSO SANCHEZ: Yes.

GRAHAM STALEY: I mean I don't want to get everyone -- I don't want to educate everyone on imported malt, but another factor of course is that not only is the timing of the purchase of that third-party malt, but the price of malt this year is high anyway because of the cost of barley over the last nine months or so.

CELSO SANCHEZ: Yes.

GRAHAM STALEY: So that's extra impact as well in Q1.

CELSO SANCHEZ: No, that's great. I think we just want to understand the mechanics a bit better. Also, along the mechanic questions unfortunately, on the bottle roll out, the 630mls, we understand that you're rolling out Rio I think you said, if I understood correctly. There are reports that they're in another state as well. Is that something you anticipate to be rolled out much more fully across the country?

And, also within the mechanics side, is that expense incurred in the COGS line or is it an SG&A number?

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Yes, we launched the bottle last year as a pilot in the South of Brazil, in [Juges de Sul], using Bohemia as a pilot just to test the mechanics. In Rio, we had a great opportunity. In fact that has been performing very well, and Skol was not in the same, in the same pace. So, given the analysis we have for the Rio market, we saw that there's a huge opportunity to change the way we were doing business in returnables.

So we decide to bring in a much more relevant fashion than the pilot. There was a premium brand, a small volume in the south, and consumers reacted very well to the proposition because they could acquire more beer for the same price. So they get additional 30ml at the same price, which doesn't cost the same for us because of course you dilute all your costs, the logistic cost and the production cost. So we could offer a better proposition to our consumers. They love the bottle, it's more beautiful, it's younger, it's more sophisticated than the traditional and old 600ml bottle. And we had the opportunity to solve other problems, too, related to the old bottle.

And so far the decision is to implement that only with Skol in Rio. We are analyzing the results. We are happy with the results but not still confident, not yet confident, that we can roll out in other regions. Of course, if that goes very well and that proves to be a great alternative, we are going to roll out, but it's still too early to say.

CELSO SANCHEZ: Just a follow up, though, on the mechanics side in terms of the accounting. Should we see that roll out expense, which I imagine is a one off, whether you time that it's phased in, in the COGS line as an -- or in the SG&A?

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Well, basically, we are replacing bottles so we bring 600ml -- 600ml bottles back in exchange for the 630ml so you don't any additional costs. You have a CapEx anticipation, that's what we did, we usually buy bottles to replace breakage during the year. So we anticipate the acquisition of the bottles and then we place that into the market, bringing back the 600ml. So, during the year, we're going to use these 600ml bottles that we brought back to Antarctica, for Antarctica, for Brahma and, of course, for the other regions.

CELSO SANCHEZ: So there's -- I thought I understood it as partially an explanation for the SG&A spike, but that sounds like it would make this just a simple replace.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: You are right, that has nothing to do with the bottle. It has to do with the campaign to launch the bottle in Rio, right? So we, of course, we do with -- we not only implemented the bottle but we provide consumers with a new, so that we share with them of course to motivate them to go for Skol.

CELSO SANCHEZ: And that campaign, which, I think was a one quarter roll out in Rio rather than a four quarter roll out?

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Yes, you're right.

CELSO SANCHEZ: Great, thank you.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Okay.

OPERATOR: Thank you. Our next question is coming from Trevor Stirling with Sanford Bernstein. Please go ahead.

TREVOR STIRLING, ANALYST, SANFORD BERNSTEIN: Good morning, good afternoon gentlemen. A couple of questions for you. Firstly, focusing in on the consumer issue or the Beer volume issues in Brazil, you mentioned that April is looking much more positive with volumes coming back about 3.1%. Is that applying for CSD's as well? Are you seeing a similar recovery in CSD volumes?

And, I guess partly a link to that, in many other Latin American countries we're seeing similar levels of high food inflation which should be impacting the levels of the C&D consumers in those countries, but we don't seem they've have quite had the same volume weakness. Does that imply it's maybe more a weather related thing in Brazil rather than the consumer income?

And the third question, specifically about HILA-ex, that the price mix, the revenue per hectoliter in HILA-ex seems to have dropped by almost 5% in the period. And I was wondering is that a mix effect or does that reflect increased pricing or pricing competition in one of the HILA-ex countries?

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Well, first on the soft drinks side, you are right, the performance in April in soft drinks was better than in the first Q, but not yet as good as beer. We are suffering more in soft drinks in Gatorade, in H20. These are products that have proven to be much more related to the weather. That's why in beer we don't see the same effects of the weather.

On average, you have soft drinks less dependent on weather, but when it's too poor, that's what will happen in the short term, we suffered more because H20 became very relevant. And Gatorade was really weak at the beginning of the year and continued to be in April. It's improving, but not in the same pace of beer.

Difficult to say what is market, what's the market share. Of course, when you look at soft drinks, we are above last year on average. We were until March, let's see the April numbers. But of course we have to accelerate some of the initiatives. When we have the peer pressure -- of course you know that after price increase, we mobilize our sales force because we know there will be other pressure in the market share of beer. Of course, that brings some (inaudible) from the CSD side into the beer side, given that we don't lose more than is planned and to recover faster. And we believe that it will be recovered during the next two months. Right.

Well, and -- but inflation, you're probably right, there are differences among countries, there's the effect of the food inflation amongst countries. But consider the fact that in Brazil we -- you have the Carnival on top of the weather. So the weather was very negative. And the early Carnival makes people spend money at the very beginning of the year, then they have to pay their taxes, they are -- they have to put the children in the school. And, on top of that, you have an acceleration of the food inflation. That is partly, of course, for the international demand, and partly for the internal demand compared to the crops we have in some specific products.

Right, so it's really difficult to compare because we don't have all the drivers in all the countries and we had other effects that brought the, that brought us, our volume down. So I think for the next few months, so and in the second and third quarter will be easier to compare and to see if the effects of (inaudible).

One thing that I could add is that, when you look at premium brands, we grew around 9%. And premium brands, of course, they are more consumed by the classes A and B, compared to the mainstream brands, they are more consumed by the classes C and D. So, yes, there was an effect on the food inflation in the short term, but of course last, then, the impact of the weather in the early part.

TREVOR STIRLING: Very helpful. Thank you.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: I think you have a question on HILA with regards to price, is that right? You have --

TREVOR STIRLING: Yes, that's right. It appears revenue per hectoliter dropped about 5% in the quarter for beer in HILA-ex.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Yes. Yes, when you compare quarter-on-quarter, really it's difficult because volumes were much better than last year, but the volume increase, it's in the back of the share increase. There, of course, we implemented several initiatives, the Smart Choice initiatives in Peru, in Dominican Republic, that in the bottom line they are positive compared to the historical that we have. But, when you look at net revenues, they brought our prices down. And, on top of that, we had some tax increases in Dominican Republic and in Venezuela, at the very end of last year that we haven't recovered with price increases yet.

TREVOR STIRLING: Understand.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Okay.

TREVOR STIRLING: Thank you.

OPERATOR: Thank you. Our final question is coming from Juliana Rozembaum of Itau. Please go ahead.

JULIANA ROZEMBAUM, ANALYST, ITAU: Hi, good morning. Thank you for your attention. I have just a very quick question as regards taxes. I would like to know, if possible, how much is the IPI on all your sales tax per hectoliter represents of your average price?

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: I would have to check that because I don't have exactly numbers broken by different taxes we have.

JULIANA ROZEMBAUM: Could be an average or just figure out?

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Let me check if I have the numbers available.

JULIANA ROZEMBAUM: Yes, the question means I'm a bit concerned with the potential impact of the change to taxations on the margin system instead of a fixed price.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Yes, of course, every tax increase will have an impact on our prices, or, depending on our decision to increase prices on top of the inflation to compensate for that or not, and of course depending on the level of the increase. We know there are rumors of a possible change in the IPI, but it's too early to comment on that because we haven't been informed by anyone that there will be a tax increase, a federal tax increase. Or, at least we haven't discussed that with any authority so far.

If it comes, depending on the size of it, we'll have to make a decision as we did, for example, in Venezuela, not to pass to prices in the short term. Well, we're probably doing in the future, but of course we have to make a decision on that. On average, if you take a longer term it's natural that we try to compensate tax increases with price increases. We see government concerned with inflation so they know increasing taxes would have an effect on the inflation, the overall inflation. So and we see the collection, tax collection at the federal level increasing, given the volume performance, given the industry performance last year. So it's too early to say anything about that.

JULIANA ROZEMBAUM: Sure. I agree with you in terms of the inflation. That's a very good argument for the government. But, the price at least on the newspapers they said about something 40% percentage in terms of tax rate. But that's -- would like to know how it compares today for AmBev, because in my understanding that's much higher than what you paid, given your brands which are much better and have much higher price.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Yes. I think we would need a lot of time to discuss the tax system in Brazil and how this really effects the -- because you have, for the IPI, you have the fiscal things, you have the VAT, the [ICMS]. There -- the legislation is one thing, the way it's applied, applies in the different calculation from the theory to the practice. So maybe if we could pick that up offline. It will be a long, long answer and I'm not sure that I'm prepared to share all the discussions with you guys now.

JULIANA ROZEMBAUM: Okay, thank you very much.

LUIZ FERNANDO EDMOND: Thank you.

OPERATOR: Thank you. At this time, I'd like to turn the floor back over to Mr. Graham Staley for any further final remarks.

GRAHAM STALEY: Thank you, Elsa. Just like to thank all of you for your participation today. And no doubt we'll be talking to you in follow up conversations or meetings in the days and weeks ahead. So have a great day and thank you for your participation. Bye bye.

OPERATOR: Thank you. That does conclude today's teleconference. You may disconnect your lines at this time and have a wonderful day.

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Company / organization: Name: Thomson Financial; NAICS: 551111

Publication title: Fair Disclosure Wire; Linthicum

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 8, 2008

Publisher: CQ Roll Call

Place of publication: Linthicum

Country of publication: United States, Linthicum

Publication subject: Business And Economics, Law--Corporate Law

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

ProQuest document ID: 466151256

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/466151256?accountid=4840

Copyright: 2008 CCBN, Inc. and FDCH e-Media, Inc.

Last updated: 2018-02-21

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 162 of 313

Q1 2008 Companhia Energetica de Minas Gerais (CEMIG) Earnings Conference Call - Final

Publication info: Fair Disclosure Wire ; Linthicum [Linthicum]08 May 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

OPERATOR: (interpreted) Good morning everyone. We begin the video webcast of the results of the first quarter 2008 with the presence of Djalma Bastos de Morais, CEO of this company, and Luiz Fernando Rolla, Chief Financial Officer. (OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS)

I now give the floor to Dr. Djalma Bastos de Morais for his initial remarks.

DJALMA BASTOS DE MORAIS, CEO, CEMIG: (interpreted) Good morning ladies and gentlemen. It is a great pleasure to be together with you all here today. We're going to have an essentially technical presentation of our results. We are expecting better participation in two events we're going to have with you in Araxa after the auction where we think we're going to be successful.

And I would like to share our results with you, which are going to be shown by Dr. Rolla, expressive results for this company. And inform you of the absence of [Augustinio] here replaced by [Dr. Verus] because of [Augustinio] in his travellings he actually was affected by dengue.

So our company, as I have told you, is going to show expressive profit vis-a-vis the first quarter last year. And, as you are well aware, we have been trying to restructure internally, so as to improve our efficiency. And certainly we're going to have very good results beginning next year.

I ask your leave because it is an essentially technical presentation of results. I ask leave to leave, but I'll be at your entire disposal here at this company or anywhere else so that we can better clarify our actions. And we are at any time at your service.

So I would like to give the floor to Dr. Rolla and ask leave to go, but I am entirely at your service. Thank you very much.

LUIZ FERNANDO ROLLA, CFO & IR OFFICER, CEMIG: (interpreted) Dr. Djalma, we are going to make a presentation that naturally is going to be restricted to an analysis of the results; the results that we have published yesterday. And this balance sheet was extremely positive in our view, because it reflects some factors that we have sought in a very intense manner in recent years.

We have tried to implement an investment discipline that is quite strong, and improvement of operational efficiency that aims at reducing our operational costs in a vigorous manner. A trade policy that gives value more and more of the assets that we have and therefore that give us our revenues. And besides that to maximize such results through other actions which will add value for our stockholders.

We had in the first quarter 2008 a profit of R$490 million which represents a growth by 20% relative to the first quarter 2007, which is a 20% growth. In what has to do with the EBITDA we had an expressive number of R$1,088 million, also compared to the same period a growth of 22% in our EBITDA. We already are in the fourth consecutive quarter with EBITDA figures over R$1 million and this performance results from the growth factors that I have just mentioned before.

We've had some more results, exceptional highlights in the first quarter and the retrospective is very positive in all. We had the signature of our partnership contract with the important national groups so as to study the feasibility of enterprises. Both wind and water, our enterprises that reach the capacity of 1,500 megawatts which are facing the need of new enterprises for Brazil in the next years, so in the short term is very strategically important.

On the other hand we have been trying to capture the growth trends in the prices of power. And we all know that there is a growing trend for energy prices in the next few years. And we have been trying to anticipate, as best as we can, the capture of such a trend aligned with the partnership policy, long-term policy, with selected customers.

So we have been seeking customers that add value to our assets. And such customers are signing long-term contracts, at very compensating prices for CEMIG. But on the other hand, we've been providing trustability to those customers that overcomes, or surpasses, what is being offered, in general, by the market. This has been recognized by our customers. And we have recently announced two contracts, very significant, with large national groups, thus showing the correctness of our trade policy.

We also had establishment of the tariff revision of our distributing company in last April 8. And the result that we have obtained was consistent with the projections that we made before the results were, in our view, very much aligned with the company's strategy. The results that you will see in the next quarters are going to show this very clearly. We have the conviction. We are convinced that, given the circumstances of tariff revision, we have obtained a result that is going to please our shareholders certainly.

We acquired, also within our investment policy, two more transmission companies, two small companies, that are located in the southern part of this country; companies that were acquired through TBE, which is our transmission company that we have purchased two years ago in partnership with some other investors, which is [inserted] within the context of the use of the cash existent in that company.

The return there was very attractive, that we obtained. And we made up very positive return on investment which is going to give, without any doubt, an even bigger growth in the future of our transmission company, our TBE company.

The same partnerships that we established in TBE have been kept in the presentation that you have available. In the appendix you have four extra slides with the detailed information about such acquisitions in such a way that you're going to see that that is really true about the attractive return and the optimization of resources from these investment vehicles that we have acquired.

We are looking for, as our CEO has remarked, operational efficiency that is even higher. We had a very positive growth, as I mentioned at the beginning, of our EBITDA, reflecting such operational efficiency.

But we are still not satisfied; there are still opportunities to reduce cost. And we're seeking, through a process optimization, some measures that are going to be put together into a plan to be implemented in the short term that is going to result in terms of even bigger benefits for the next quarters. We have been seeking also the optimization of non-operational costs such as the investment programs, also within the regulation logic, bringing additional benefits to the company.

This month of May, at the beginning of this month we commissioned our new billing system. It is a customary management system with a SAP platform that is going to also give some gains in the next months. It's a very great improvement of our billing processes and revenue collection and even accounting of our revenues, which is going to allow for a more nimble and quicker and flexible process. And this is going to redound not only is cost reduction, but also revenue gains.

Another important topic that was the object of discussion in the first quarter which is the generation concessions. In the slide there you have all of the most relevant facts in terms of our concessions. We had some concessions that were renewed end of last year that is. And we are speeding up the signature of the new term of the contracts, addition to the contracts, around 1,800 megawatts of capacity that were headed by the Emborcacao plant in Nova Ponte; three more hydro electric plants. This is an important thing, because we had a renewal for more 20 years, or 20 years more we'll have this concession, guaranteed until 2025.

A controversy came about about some other plants such as Sao Simao which is our largest generation plant of 1,700 megawatts, if by chance, the date due coinciding with 2015 would be the second renewal. Actually it is the first renewal. We are still entitled to another 20 year renewal; in accordance to the contract we had a guaranteed second renewal. Therefore we are very at ease vis-a-vis such aspects.

These renewals are going to take place in an automatic manner, in such a way that we have no risk that such concessions would be considered renewed. Such concessions that were renewed in 1995, therefore are due in 2015, entitled to a second renewal, go up to 6,000 megawatts, less than 10% of our installed capacity. But we strongly believe, in accordance with our contract, that we are entitled to a second renewal.

The investment program is also a highlight. Unfortunately in the first quarter we could not accomplish a significant parcel of this investment program. We realized less than R$100 million. It is an initial process in this investment program. But the investment program, we are still going to realize most of it in the next three quarters, so that we can fulfill the budget that we forecast for 2008, R$1.5 billion.

As couldn't be otherwise, we also have some investments that we've been making in the environmental and social area. These two programs, that you see on slide number nine, are initiatives that are extremely positive because they preserve, not only the river fauna, where we have our plants, therefore guaranteeing not only quality of water, but also the preservation of the water sources.

The Conviver project is a social project aiming at benefiting some low income consumers with donations of domestic equipment that besides bringing them the social benefit also brings the benefit of a more rational consumption of electric power.

In slide number ten, you have there our actually statement headed by the net income. As I mentioned in the beginning, this net income has reached R$490 million. We're going to analyze each one of these figures, the most important ones. And I expect that by means of this analysis, you have all of the information that you need in order to decide about the quality of the figures that we're presenting to you now.

Let us begin with the net income. Net income; you should skip to slide number 11 and you can see the construction of such a net profit. You notice that we had an increase of a net income of more than R$453 million, with a lesser growth of our operational expense. And this made this operational profit increase by more than 20%, thus reaching R$490 million, a growth that resulted exactly from the growth factors that I mentioned at the beginning.

Moving on to slide number 12, you can see that this profit was more or less within the average, above maybe the average of the market, which is R$462 million. The minimum projection was R$372 million. We reached R$490 million, therefore well above the minimum; we did not reach the maximum to R$569 million. We have to study with the analysts the reason why they have projected such a high value. At any rate, the profit that we presented was above average and above the medium, therefore we understand that it meets the expectations from the market.

The economic growth or the profit also grew substantially in the first quarter. In the last 12 months, we have reached R$510 million. The economic profit as compared to 2007, we had R$436 million. Therefore it is a substantial growth, as you can see. Our profitability has increased impressively with the reduction of our weighted cost of capital, leaving 13.6% 2005 reaching the first quarter, 2008 only 10.9%.

Then the return on invested capital reaches 14%, which is the highest value in the period. Therefore, we had an increase in profitability in this period, which is there represented by the economic profit with 3.1%. And this is a very expressive result.

The profit by company. As you can see, the distributing company reaches 50% of the total profit, our generator and transmitter reaching 38%, Light gave a contribution of 2% and TBE 1%, the remainder reaching 100%. Therefore it is important to clarify that the distributing company gave the biggest contribution, 50%. It is an extremely relevant fact because we went through the tariff revision and that is the one responsible for 50% of the profit. As you can well see, within the regulatory logic we had an exceptional result with the growth of this profit, over 50%, which is very expressive results as well.

And now, with the new revision, we're going to undergo a process of restructuring in such a way that we're going to start from a lower level. But at the end of the period, we will be reaching the profitability in the quarters with the regulatory logic.

[AGT], which is generation and transmission, CEMIG GT, had 17% growth, also very positive. This growth comes from the higher medium price of average price of the sales of this company. It gives a very strong support to growth because it is also responsible for 38% of the net profit. Therefore it is quite solid growth that is going to contribute to the maintenance of the good foundations that the company has for the next quarters.

RME, we had a reduction by 25%, more as a result of the exercise by the BNDES, the National Development Bank, of the convertible debentures. Therefore, we had a participation reduction, a stock reduction in RME, therefore, it justifies this 25% decrease. All the other companies had a very positive performance, well on line with what we had projected for them.

In what refers to distribution, [to justify] this 50% growth in our profit, we had an increase of revenues that was quite strong as well, going over the operational expenses increase, which resulted in this 50% increase in our profits.

[AGT] we had also an increase of its revenues as justification for the profit growth, R$206 million, followed very closely by operational expenses increase by R$26 million. But this is not enough to compensate or to make up for the growth of our earnings.

Going back to our slide number ten, we analyze therefore the net profit. We saw that the profit by company, the growth of each company. Now let's move on now to our participation in the profits, which was provision of R$22 million, more or less a growth that is proportionate to what we expect for the year [2005].

This is as it was established in our social statutes. It's good to make it clear that our social statute establishes some commitments vis-a-vis participation of employees. And this employee participation is going to take place in terms of the approval not only in the Board, but also by our general assembly. Therefore it's going to be done in a very transparent manner.

We are telling you about such aspects because of the concern that some investors had with the negotiation of some gratuities that we had last year with two of our employees. And from now on, to give more transparency to our decisions, we have adopted the inclusion in our statutes of those mechanisms in such a way that we're going to be transparent about such investments.

Going back to slide number ten, what we have here is the income tax. Let us look at the income tax details. Naturally we have an explanation about this. As you can see in slide number 18, the conciliation of our income tax that was effectively paid when the nominal is around R$272 million. We paid R$276 million, a little above the original figure because of some readjustments during the quarter. Therefore it's not going to divert much from the nominal income tax.

Going back to our slide number ten, minority participations are not very relevant in spite of the growth that they have experienced both in terms of profitability growth of the other companies in which we're not majority, but it is a small figure, around R$12 million. Therefore it does not have a dimension that is large enough for us to spend more time mentioning them.

[That is] with that the profits before tax has reached R$886 million, and let's see how this profit was made up. Let us begin with the financial results, also important in spite of having been negative representing a growth 18% actually. It comes much from the currency variation, especially exchange variation in the assets that we have, the regulatory assets, and some other assets such as CRC, which we have included in our sheet.

The financial earnings increased substantially something around 30% as a result of a more robust cash flow that we had in the first quarter. We had a reduction of the loans and financings of R$223 million in the first quarter 2007 to R$195 million, thus reflecting the improvement of the weighted mean cost of capital that I showed a while before. So this financial result is inserted within the context and it has no extraordinary aspects deserving of note. And I mention therefore, they don't demand a further explanation.

The cash that was generated in the quarter was very strong. We added almost R$400 million in our available cash at the end of the quarter. The generation of cash by all operations reached [R$647 million] (sic- see presentation), a little less than 2007 because of more adjustments that were made in the value. We are receiving RTD and part of RTE as well, which has deferred tariff readjustment adding substantial value to our cash.

Financing activities we're still in the initial process. We're going to roll 100% of our debt in accordance with what was previously announced. It's the management policy of our debt, trying to elongate this time due. Therefore the payments of loans and finances reaching R$115 million in the first quarter 2008 are going to be rolled throughout the period.

The investment activity is still low in spite of having required R$150 million from our cash. But at the end of the period, as I said this total R$2,459 million is available not only to pay the dividends, referring to 2007, representing 50% of the net profits of 2007, reaching R$1,743 million. Therefore, half of it is going to be paid with this monies that you have available there.

The remainder is still going to be invested in some other acquisitions. We have several plans to be implemented throughout the year; you are aware of some of them. The first one was the acquisition of [SDC] (inaudible) which was part of this cash that we have been showing you.

Indicators of debt also are extremely positive. As you can see, slide 21 that we are still 70% of our debt indexed and the CDI expect it to capture the lowering trend. We had a reversal of such lowering trend in 2008. It seems that interest rates are going to go up a little, but we believe that with the average that we have been making, we are going still to have the opportunity to reduce the mean cost of such debt, the average cost. As I said, the weighted cost of capital reached 10.8% but we expect, in spite of such a slight reversal of the interest rates here in Brazil, to still reduce it even more.

So in the financial indicators that we have subscribed with our financers are practically within the volume and the dimension that are required. We have no concern whatsoever in this quarter and nor throughout the year. And we're not going to have any pressure unless we have an acquisition of a higher value.

The debt profile is elongated. As you see, we only have R$1 billion to roll, which is a small parcel of our debt, less than one seventh of this debt. And the real mean cost is falling substantially every quarter, as you can see in this graph. About the slide, we have a mean cost of 7.4%. This is a very competitive value, especially for us. We'll have a restriction in terms of resource captured in the market and [appropriated] funds and we cannot do it the same facilities as the private companies have.

The Bank of Brazil and the debenturists have almost 50% of the total debt. So we have also [Itau Bank]; we have almost 70% of the debt in the hands of these three large debtors.

Going back to slide number ten. As we have mentioned, the financial results, the operational profit reached R$807 million. Also an extremely positive performance because it represented a growth vis-a-vis the same period last year up by 25%. Non-operational result is not sufficiently significant to spend any time on it, around R$6 million, even though it grew by 2% [and very little too]. But I prefer to focus on the bottom line, where we have the EBITDA and the net operational income and the operational expenses. This is where we built all our profit.

You see that in our EBITDA, we reached R$1,088 million, a growth of 22% where all of our explanations rest vis-a-vis the reaching of this level of profit. Net revenues R$2,755 million, 20% growth, and the operational expense almost R$1,900 million, a growth by 17%, falling short of our operational revenues, allowing EBITDA to grow by 22%.

Let us look at more details in the EBITDA figures. You can see there the construction of the EBITDA based on the net profit reaching R$1,087 million, with the provision of income tax, participation of the employees, non-operational result plus amortization and depreciation reaching R$1,087 million. As a non-recurring item, the recognition of some financial items in this new tariff revision which were recognized the first quarter, they refer to previous periods, R$62 million. If we make for this adjustment, the EBITDA then falls to almost R$1,030 million. Even then, with the growth of 17.7%, vis-a-vis 2007 and therefore very positive performance.

You can see that in the last four quarters that is, we have been keeping a level of cash generation that is quite strong, thus going over R$1 billion in a very consistent solid manner, leading to a cumulative EBITDA reaching R$4,272 million. This is an extremely positive performance, and naturally we have to consider that within the context that we had a revision of the distributor company, thus affecting this performance a little bit.

But comparatively speaking with what we had projected for 2008, R$3,600 million at the lower level and R$3,971 million in the upper limit. This performance shows that we are in a very positive level and we understand that represents exactly the implementation of the long-term strategies that we have adopted so as to maximize results of our assets by adding substantial value to our stockholders.

The EBITDA by company you see there on this page 25, you see that the distributor is responsible for 47%. It's a little less than the profit, the profit was 50%, the EBITDA 47%. The GT company increased its participation in the EBITDA but at any rate, the EBITDA growth of the distributor company was very strong, 47%, resulting from the growth factors.

GT also 19% a reduction of the EBITDA of RME because of the P&S of its convertible debentures, therefore reducing our participation in the Light company. So consolidation was slightly smaller therefore. But any rate, the results were quite solid, thus showing that the foundations of the company are on a very positive level.

Let us take a look at the operational revenues. Slide number 26, you can see the construction of such net revenues. We had an increase of sales to final consumers quite strong, R$469 million. Also a growth in the transactional CCEE of R$72 million, which represents practically this growth by 20% of the reductions proportional to the growth of the previous revenues. But this is the growth of sales to final consumers as to very healthy number responsible for the growth of our net earnings.

The operational earnings, as you can see you have a better detail there, slide number 27. With the composition by source, that is gross provision or the use of the network and other operational revenues, the composition of it. Most of the revenues come from the supply of energy, which is 85% of the total of the revenues. If you look at it slightly differently, residential consumption is responsible for 32% of the revenues and industrials 25%, rural reached 18.7%. All maintaining a percentage that is quite significant, with a slight reduction on the part of the residential customer.

The use of the network, TUSD, represents [62%] (sic- see presentation) and the use of the basic network representing 32%, giving a very precise diagnosis of where the revenues come from and what is the growth that we have been getting.

In terms of consolidated sales we had a slight decrease as compared to the first quarter 2007, because we had a small contribution of the Light company. The very nice summer in Rio de Janeiro reduced the consumption of power in the [Light Air] concession area, thus reducing the volume of sales there. We sold in the first quarter 13,800 gigawatts hour, as compared to 14,000 gigawatts hour in the first quarter last year. So it was quite a random situation that made about this reduction, but it's not had any reflection on our revenues, as you can see.

The more detailed diagnosis of our sales, you can see slide number 29, total energy sales to final customers was very positive. If you look only at the final customers, we had a growth of almost 6%, therefore, very positive. The supplies have a slightly negative variation as a result of the exercise of contract flexibility on the part of some free customers, and also the reduction of the availability of power to be sold on the spot market. Therefore, this reduced the growth, but for the final customers the growth was quite vigorous, thus reaching almost 6%, which is the most important value to focus on in terms of the revenue.

The net revenues per company, as you can see, the distributor is responsible for 57%, on slide number 30. There was a growth of 27% and the generator with 24% of the total revenue, had a growth of 16%. Therefore the two companies that are the locomotives, as it were, of our Group are having an extremely positive performance, 27% of growth.

And 16% in GT; RME had this impact of revenue reduction because of sales reduction. At any rate, we had substantial growth of net earnings in the most important companies. In what refers to GT, as you can see, you have the makeup of the net earnings, 16% up, with the sales to free customers going up to R$80 million and the supply and the transactions of CCEE in spite of the lesser volume, but the price was substantially higher.

You remember that the PLD had a very big growth and therefore the revenues increased by R$46 million, which allows us to reach this growth in the net income of the generator company by 16%, which makes the average of sales per megawatt hours reaching almost R$90 per megawatt hour, which is an extremely positive value.

The growth of GT sales. GT has no substantial variation in terms of volumes because we have a capacity that is practically fixed, unless we build or we acquire more additional capacity, and this figure will not grow. The variation that you see is the generation above the insured energy, which gives a few opportunities for business, which happened in the year 2007 and has not happened in 2008 because of the high prices on the spot market.

The detailing of the GT sales, as you can see, most of the parcels is industrial customers having a substantial increase 2008 because of the exercise that I mentioned before. The supply also grew through the [CCAR] contracts that are getting into effect now in 2008 and a reduction of contracts with trading companies at 11%, which are very short-term contracts. And as a result of the high price of the spot market, we had this reduction of the volume, but not reflected upon the revenues, because of the high prices.

With that, we had a generation of productivity and transmission productivity quite strong. As you can see the indicators there, we are at an extremely positive level, some of them in positive growth, showing that the actions that we've been implementing, vis-a-vis the increase of our operation efficiency, have resulted very positively in the net earnings per employee increased substantially. The EBITDA per employee also increased and the net profit per employee also increased. Installed capacity per employee had practically a stable volume.

The distributor also had a growth in earnings quite substantial, around 27%, and this makeup is there on page 35, additional R$417 million, because of the sales to final customers. The volume of sales increased by 6%, somewhere around a very positive to what us, aligned with the 5% tariff increase in April 2007. Thus giving us the growth of the revenues resulting in an increase of 27% of the net earnings.

Sales of the distributor company are showed on page 36. As you can see, sales growth to the captive market has a very steady growth as compared to 2007. But it has a seasonality; the first quarter is the weakest one of all in our area of concession in spite of the fact that Light is the opposite, it is the strongest quarter. But here in Minas Gerais this is the weakest of all.

But at any rate, compared with 2007, we had a substantial growth in the distributor sales. And the productivity of the distributor company has kept the same rhythm as the generator company, growing indicators that are quite expressive especially in what has [to] with the net earnings per employee, EBITDA per employee and profit for employee especially in these aspects, the profit per employee, we had a growth of [50]% (sic - see presentation).

The kilometer of line per employee; in the case of the distributor there was a small increase almost [instability] but it contributed to the increase of productivity. The distributor went through a tariff revision; we have to take this into account when we project the results for the next quarters.

In spite of the results that we understand as being very positive, the margin of the regulatory EBITDA reached 21%, which is well above the previous tariff revision with the total coverage of losses. Therefore, not giving us any additional onus, therefore any additional difficulties. Liabilities 17% a year for the next years, which implies a lesser risk than the previous revision.

And this because the market projection of the previous revision was over this 3.17%. X Factor, also was quite reasonable 0.84%. This is a figure that meets the expectations of the company, therefore, also is going to contribute to improve our performance in the next years. Therefore, with that we can include some financial items that are positively impacting EBITDA in the first quarter and are still going to have an impact on some others in the next quarters.

Another topic that is relevant to the distributor company, which is the exposure to spot market prices of PLD in the first quarter. Because of the high price of the PLD we had this exposure because there was a reduction in the Itaipu quota and the non-realization of the investments. And so in the supply structure of the distributor company we counted on the replacement of these two items, especially Itaipu quota, which did not happen because of several factors.

Fortunately it does not affect our profitability, because such involuntary purchases are accounted for at CVA and they move on to the tariff at the adequate time. So we have been able to achieve a tariff coverage for this exposure region that is of R$101 per megawatt hour for the next 12 months. So this is going to allow us to mitigate this transfer to the CVA, which does not have any economic impact, but there is a cash impact. But at any rate we should not have any impact in terms of our results.

Going back to page ten, let's analyze operational expense and we move on to page 40 that way on page 40 we'll have a perfect diagnosis of our operational expenses. As you can see, it had a growth of 17%, well short of our revenue growth, showing a productivity gain in the quarter. The detail of this growth, we had R$169 million of non-controllable expenses representing 61% of this growth. The controlled expenses grew by R$107 million, representing 39%.

So the breakdown of this non-controllable expenses shows that most of the growth of the non-controllable expenses came from purchased energy, higher prices of power, which our companies started to acquire, thus reflected on the non-controlled expenses.

The controllable expenses; we had a growth, which is natural, of the number of customers and the number of network kilometer lines that we have added to our distribution [part]. And personnel increased by 45% in the first quarter because of the little realization on the investment program we had a transfer to construction that is ongoing. Ongoing construction we had almost half of what (inaudible) last year. But as we take up again investment program this figure is going to go back to normal and expenses of personnel are going back to previously planned for 2008.

In the next slide, 41, you have the details of operational expenses, non-controllable and controlled, by quarter. In the first one on the left in the comparison with previous quarters it remains constant without any significant variation. Controllable expenses, as I said, the largest item is the personnel item reaching 32%. There is a percentage reduction in these expenses. It left the level of 35% in 2007 and now 32% in [2006] in spite of the slight increase as compared to 2007. But this showing that the actions that we have implemented vis-a-vis personnel are producing their effects, therefore, personnel has been reducing substantially.

Non-controllable expenses, we had a growing volume of energy purchases also as a function of the growing price of power, as I commented before. Therefore, this is the trend for the next quarters. Going back to page 10 we have completed the itemized analysis of the results.

I'd like only to close this presentation to comment with y'all about the next events that we're going to have. Those are extremely important to us. So we're now publicizing our results today, but we have program for the 19th you have the Jirau plant auction, which is an extremely important investment for us, which is going to result in the achievement of that highest strategy of going into the Amazon region.

Next day we're going to have a conference call we had promised the market in order to clarify all the aspects relative to the Santo Antonio plant. All of these two investments follow our investment policy, as highlighted by our CEO, offering a very attractive return besides the strategic aspects that we have already talked about. So on the 20th we are going to publicize very transparently what led us to make decisions to participate in the Santo Antonio plant.

In the Jirau plant auction we're going to have the same mechanism. We're going to participate in the auction in a minority way and we're going to have some time to decide whether we will stay in investment or not for the future.

At the end of the month we have our annual meeting; it is extremely important to us. We are going to present several items to you, including our projections for the next years to adjust the projections that we have publicized. Naturally, we expect to see all of you within the limitations of available places.

In the month of June we have some important conferences and some other events, the Merrill Lynch conference, Credit Suisse in Dubai and the transmission lines auction on the 27th, also an opportunity for very good investment. We are going to participate together with TBE, which is our investment vehicle, the most effective one in transmission lines. In spite that GT CEMIG is also going to participate in some of the batches that we think are most attractive together with TBE. We also should have another roadshow organized by Morgan Stanley in Europe and the USA at the end of the month of June.

Our Araxa meeting, which is traditional, it's the 13th meeting with analysts and investors. We're repeating naturally the location, Araxa. It is a resort of the best quality; the facilities are very nice and adequate for this type of event.

We're going to have a very dense program. We're going to make a presentation in round tables with all the main executives of the company showing strategically what is being proposed for the next years in terms of the improvements. I think it's going to be very interesting to the investors to become aware of the measures that we're taking. Those that cannot go because of the limitations of spaces and places we're going to have a webcast so that everyone may have access to such information in a very clear, transparent manner.

So we should have at least eight to ten hour webcast so that investors that cannot come [up] personally will have access to the very same information as the ones that will be present physically there. And as a highlight we should visit one of the CEMIG plants, always very attractive to get to know the generation assets, which shows how we go about making energy and the way we operate those plants and, in our view, in a very efficient way.

At the end of the day we're going to update our economic financial projections, our guidance for the next five years in such a way that everyone will be able to see the impact, especially of the tariff revisions. We anticipate that we are not announcing any radical change in our projection. Simply we update premises and very likely are going to be in line with the previous projections, except for such premises that are going to suffer any change.

So these were the slides that we had prepared to present to you. If by any chance we have not exhausted all the questions I place myself at your disposal to clarify any type of doubts that you might have about the topics that we have touched upon. Thank you very much.

OPERATOR: (interpreted) We will now begin the question and answer session. (OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS) Our first question comes from Eduardo Haiama from UBS Pactual.

EDUARDO HAIAMA, ANALYST, UBS PACTUAL: (interpreted) Good morning, everyone. Basically I would like to have two questions about generation. First one having to do with the Jirau auction on the 19th; whether [was] having the auction and CEMIG deciding or not to participate. Let's say that the consortium wins, if you would be publicizing all the information, both in terms of investments, financial aspects, long term price premises, both for Santo Antonio and Jirau or whether such information will still be kept confidential? That's the first question.

The second question is still having to do with generation. Having in mind those relevant contracts that were signed [both LNG] and long term, is the strategy of the company, if we can imagine the company negotiating more contracts and what kinds of price levels can we think in terms of for these contracts?

LUIZ FERNANDO ROLLA: (interpreted) Thank you, Eduardo, for the questions. Let us begin with the easiest one, which is the Jirau. Jirau, as I said, it's in our investment policy so we're going to participate in Jirau if it meets the requirements of our own investment program with an adequate return as prescribed by our Board. As we have also some time after the auction to say whether we move on with the project or not, we cannot say anything in the Santo Antonio conference call the Jirau figures.

We're going to publicize the Santo Antonio ones, as promised, in this conference call. The Santo Antonio figures will all be commented on with you but Jirau, however, because of the closeness of the auction and because of the mechanism of approval, we'll have to submit it to our Board for approval. We cannot publicize the data, but you can rest assured that as soon as our Board approves the figures will be adequately published.

In what concerns contracts, we have a sales policy approved by our Board which aims at maximizing results of our generating company. We are looking for the capture of all the trends of highest prices for generation and therefore add value for our stockholders. The contracts those [Usiminar] (inaudible) contracts meet such requirements, together with the fact that we also have as policy to serve selective customers; those are unquestionably good customers.

The volumes of sales that we're selling to those customers is very large, which gives us [billionaire] contracts. In the case of [Votora Cincos] over R$10 billion producing a positive effect in the company. We are ensuring a cash flow and revenues for the next years practically without any risk at all, given the credit quality of those companies. So it is a contract that meets some additional requirements such as, for example, in the case of [Votoratim] we are serving other localities outside of the state of Minas Gerais, therefore inside the south eastern/mid-western region. We're going to serve other states where we have not been present before. So they meet our strategy to become a nationwide company, and therefore I'd say that it does exactly what we had forecast and planned for this environment of competition given by the regulation that was implemented in 2003.

EDUARDO HAIAMA: (interpreted) Okay, thank you very much.

OPERATOR: (interpreted) Our next question comes from [Marcelo Gannem] from [META].

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: (interpreted) Good afternoon. I would like to clarify here about the revenue growth of CEMIG D, which was quite high. We saw two explaining factors for this growth; the 5% tariff and the growth of the market. I'd like to understand what are the other main factors that led to this 27% growth.

LUIZ FERNANDO ROLLA: (interpreted) Some additional factors that contributed a better profile of the customers. They began to consume in a more effective manner, especially residential ones. The residential revenue growth was quite strong, practically moved up in terms of classes from the ones that have any discount to classes that have no discount. So they begin to contribute more.

But effectively the growth of revenues comes from a larger volume. And associated with these other factors, the 5% tariff increase and the reclassification of customers [there].

OPERATOR: (interpreted) Our next question comes from Mr. [Bruno Pascone] from Citigroup.

FELIPE MATTAR, ANALYST, CITIGROUP: (interpreted) This is Felipe Mattar, that is. Good morning or good afternoon, Luiz. Two questions, first having to do with the distribution and then another one in CEMIG generation. In CEMIG D you had non-billed revenues around R$100 million. And if you look at the last quarters in the last two years this average revenues could be around R$15 million, R$16 million. And some quarters there was quite negative revenues with a reverse of the non-billed. So I'd like to understand what happened with the non-billing, if there was any change of classification, what was the reason for this accountantship of the R$100 million and is that recurring for the next quarters or not?

Second, in the low income [divisions] there was something similar. What we see in the last two or three years is that the subsidies for low income begin in the first quarter around R$15 million, R$20 million and they gradually go up to R$40 million. This year the subsidies began in the first quarter around R$40 million. To the detriment of what happened what can we expect for that?

And in terms of generation I'd like to have a more strategic view whether the objectives of return of CEMIG are going to be changed in the next few months because of the fact that Brazil has received the investment degree or whether we can expect return investments similar to what has happened to Jirau where you [happen] is around 12%? Thank you very much.

LUIZ FERNANDO ROLLA: (interpreted) Let us begin with generation, the easiest one, of course. The return that we have been getting is a function of the weighted cost of capital which is influenced by those macroeconomic factors. Therefore especially reduction of the Brazilian risk because of the new ranking for the investment degree that Brazil has received is going to have a positive effect. As you saw in my presentation that mean a weighed cost of capital, the nominal one has been reduced substantially in the last years and the tendency is to reduce it more.

Naturally, our main weighted cost of capital is going to be positively reduced on the one hand, but our objectives always are to add value. Therefore, our returns will only follow the weighted cost of capital, the WACC, therefore, adding value to our company. As you saw, the economic profit that we've been adding comes from this issue. So we are looking for the reflection of such strategy in our investment.

As for the distributor revenue, Felipe, the non-billed comes from a calculation methodology that is, it is an estimate of that volume of power that was delivered to the customer, which has not been billed. And there is a seasonal influence not only of volume increase, as was the case of this year we had an increase of 6% of energy volume, but also price. So the price did not receive an influence. There's going to be an influence in the second quarter, but it comes from this methodology. This is a very simple calculation, therefore the main factors are those.

And what has to do with subsidies, and last year ANEEL questioned or challenged the volume of subsidies that were passed over to the customers. And now in the first quarter we're taking up or going back to the normalcy of such a flow. It's very likely the next years we're going to have a figure that is quite similar to the one that was published for the first quarter. Therefore, you can consider that as the average of the year. Naturally these resources are best by ANEEL; according to ANEEL criteria it's all regulated. Therefore, we should not have any big surprises in the next quarters. Okay?

FELIPE MATTAR: (interpreted) About the non-billed please. Again if you look at the quarters last year in the CEMIG distribution the non-billed was negative R$10 million the first quarter, negative R$24 million, positive R$16 million in the third quarter and positive R$21 million and closed the year with R$5 million. I'd like to have more sensitivity of what I can consider as recurrence of this? To me it was not quite clear. What is the best way to estimate this?

LUIZ FERNANDO ROLLA: (interpreted) The calculation methodology is inducive to this variation. What non-billed volume means, it's a volume of power that we estimate that was delivered to the customer in a certain month. And given the process of the [reading] process it had not been billed yet so we estimate a certain volume of power. In the next month we have the same estimate, but we compare it with the previous month. Therefore, if by any chance the previous month is higher we have a negative impact on the non-billed. If by any chance the volume of the next month is superior we have a positive impact.

So this comparison, this collation is what shows the impact. We cannot ensure beforehand for the next quarter what is going to happen because, if by chance there is a smaller number of days in April as compared to May, for example, you're going to have a smaller volume of non-billed in April and a higher one in May, thus yielding an impact caused by this difference.

Therefore, unfortunately we cannot anticipate what is going to happen, Felipe. We more or less have to keep an eye on the number of billed days in a month, taking into account especially the number of holidays which are given. And in the first quarter it was quite big. We had actually Carnival; we had the Holy Week and some other large holidays thus reducing the number of billable days. So this is what we can tell you.

Now we can also, if you still have any other doubt, prepare a small text explaining the figures that we obtain and then we can publish that through our Q&A session. Okay?

FELIPE MATTAR: (interpreted) Thank you very much.

OPERATOR: (interpreted) Our next question comes from [Batisto Carr] from (technical difficulty).

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: (interpreted) Good afternoon. My question has to do with the difference between the operational cash flow and the net earnings. The operational cash flow fell by 13%, net earnings increased by 20%. The differences along the line called other adjustments increased by R$200 million. Can you help me conciliate this difference between the operational cash flow and the net earnings?

LUIZ FERNANDO ROLLA: (interpreted) Welcome on your return to teleconferences. Such adjustments naturally are made through the variation of both of our current assets and liabilities. Therefore we calculate it by difference, therefore we maybe should -- I don't have the precise information available to me to give you the specific figures that we've presented. But on the explanatory notes in (inaudible) we have a little more openness justifying this variation. You can look and see what item that really provided for this readjustment higher in 2008 than '07.

But this short-term variation both in liabilities and assets probably either it is a provision of payable taxes or dividends that may have brought a negative readjustment in the first quarter 2008 which had no corresponding 2007 and/or the 2007 was smaller. But in our explanatory notes there's a cash flow table that you see on page 20, it's slightly more detailed, especially with the variation of the liabilities and the current assets in larger numbers, circulating that is. Very probably non-cash, non-cash.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: (interpreted) The main ones, what were the non-cash main ones?

LUIZ FERNANDO ROLLA: (interpreted) In this aspect we had several non-cash items. For example, monetary correction of RTE. We still have a parcel of receivable [CVE] and some other regulatory assets that have a monetary variation linked with the [CLIC]. As we had a [CLIC] increase we should have higher monetary correction as recognized in our liabilities; therefore both in the liability and our circulating assets.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: (interpreted) Thank you.

OPERATOR: (interpreted) Our next question comes from Mr. [Eduardo Consiar] from [Itau] Brokers.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: (interpreted) Good afternoon [Luiz Fernando]. My question has to do with CEMIG distribution. You began your call talking about the internal restructuring and results should appear next year. I'd like to have an idea about the manageable expenses that you have. What can we expect from now on in terms of our manageable expenses?

LUIZ FERNANDO ROLLA: (interpreted) Thank you for your question, Eduardo. We announced since our last conference call that we've been hiring a consultancy firm that was going to help us reevaluate our operational processes, and this consultancy has begun its work since last January. And we are in the process of identifying and comparing the performance of the several processes not only of our distributor, but also the other companies that we manage. And this consultancy company is going to present the first results in the next quarters.

I believe that by the end of the second quarter we should have an initial proposition of a few measures, immediate measures to reduce costs and later on a macro plan where all the measures that are going to be proposed so as to make the performance of our companies approximate the performances of successful global companies. So very probably we should have, let's say, outlined all the gains in the next quarters. And I believe that the implementation of this plan and the results reflected on [RDRs] should come about in the next quarter, in the second semester, or the beginning of the next year. But we've been doing the best that we can so that immediate gains can be reflected in the next quarters.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: (interpreted) One more question then. The investment came around R$100 million, well below R$1.5 billion that was predicted. Is the plan still the same? Are you going to make up for it in the next quarters?

LUIZ FERNANDO ROLLA: (interpreted) No doubt, we have no intention to revise the investment program. What happened was the initial process [of tie up] all the actions coming from the approval of the investment program. In the first quarter normally there is a small execution, but we intend to make up for it in the second and third quarters so that we're going to fulfill the established goal, the goal that was established by our Board.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: (interpreted) Thank you very much.

OPERATOR: (interpreted) Our next question comes from Mr. Marcio Prado from Santander.

MARCIO PRADO, ANALYST, SANTANDER: (interpreted) Good morning, everyone. Two questions, first one in terms of generation; there are several, actually. The first is, I'd like for you to talk about the consortium that competed with you to generate the auction that you conducted three days before, whether you considered the strategy, decided not to move on or decided [for going] about it or whether it was an idea that you had not analyzed?

In terms of generation I'd like to have a clarification. You talked about concessions and the due dates of concessions. I'd like to ask generally if there is any impediment for you to sell power linked to concessions that are going to the second date due in 2015, if there is any kind of impediment to sign contracts with this type of power?

Also generation, quickly talk about your expansion policy in what seems in a very renewable, some eolic wind energy contracts and any hydroelectric plants. Let's talk about thermal plants, which is the focus on renewable power and what you've been thinking?

Only two comments about the results quickly. First, personnel you said increased relative to the first quarter last year, you explained, but how about costs relative to pension funds? I'd like to understand that, if that had to do with [IGT], for example, or if it's just a revision of the funds actuarial table?

LUIZ FERNANDO ROLLA: (interpreted) Okay, Marcio, let us try to follow the [sequency] that you posited; a question of generation first, of Jirau. Each competitor in an auction process has their own strategy. The strategy that (inaudible) has taken up meets their needs. Very probably they want beforehand to ensure at least a parcel of the installed capacity to be sold to the free market, doing that beforehand at a price that they can estimate and which will contribute to determine in a more precise manner the return on it. It's a strategy we understand that could be beneficial to them.

However, our strategy is diverse. We had announced previously that the participation in Jirau was dependent upon the Santo Antonio participation as a result of the benefits that could be obtainable in the Santo Antonio participation. So we have a slightly different strategy then, the [Tractebel] strategy. But given the circumstances that they find themselves in, this was their best strategy. But in our case, it's a little depreciated because we have as a premise the participation in Santo Antonio. Therefore our view is different. At any rate, it is a very interesting strategy.

As for the concessions, every contract that we have signed are connected to the generation sources, so the concession concept have to have this, the ballast as it were. And all of the countries are connected to the existence of concessions, therefore we cannot sign any contract that does not have such a ballast.

Therefore all of the contracts, the long-term contracts, for example the [Votoratim] one are linked to plants for which we have concessions. Therefore we'll have no problem vis-a-vis this foundation.

As the contracts are due and purchase and sales contracts are due, we will make readjustments so as always to provide the real ballast for these contracts that are being signed. We have no doubt that all of the contracts that we are signing are covered by such guarantees.

And what has to do with hydroelectric and renewable energy, these are some opportunities that arise. I wouldn't say that they are an investment that on their own are attractive; they're always associated with some subsidies. And as a result of these subsidies, they are made feasible. Therefore we're trying to find within this context to enjoy the opportunities that we may come to have. So the hydroelectric and renewable energy are feasible only within this context.

The generation growth, the strategy is hydraulic hydro plants, especially the ones that are being bidded by the federal government. And in parallel, we cannot fail to pursue such opportunities in the short term. We have the hydroelectric plants and, second, renewable energies.

As for personnel, it's really the reason because of the growth was the non-capitalization of the expenses in the investment program because of small investments. This is going to be corrected in the next quarters as the investment program takes off.

Now as for (inaudible) the pension fund, this increase had to do with the change of actuarial parameters. When those actuarial parameters change, we have to readjust our commitments to the pension funds. Therefore we had this increase of expenses in the first quarter. Therefore this is an action that is not dependent upon the management of the company, it comes simply from some actuarial calculation. And about that, therefore this level of R$60 million per quarter should be considered that regard certainly yes.

MARCIO PRADO: (interpreted) One last about the results. What was the line of the net earnings that you had positive impact of the 2006 and [2005] the tariff revision. I saw there was a question about the non-billed provision. To me, where did you actually itemize that and what line was that included there in your statement that could be one of the explanations?

LUIZ FERNANDO ROLLA: (interpreted) The non-billed is the gross supply. When you make the EBITDA adjustments you had a tariff revision, the financial component referring to previous years 2006 and [2005], which it impacted up on the net earnings. So some line of the R$62 million that must be included there somewhere, which that's why the EBITDA goes from R$1.87 billion to R$1.29 billion. Also appears in the gross supply because the tariff was included in spite of being a financial component, it's a tariff re-composition, therefore this comes through the tariff increase. And that is reported there in the gross supply of power to final customers.

Probably then you have the non-billed growth, so I imagine that this did contribute to a higher value on non-billed supply.

MARCIO PRADO: (interpreted) Thank you very much.

OPERATOR: Our next question comes from Mr. (inaudible) with Nevsky. (inaudible) your line is open.

LUIZ FERNANDO ROLLA: (interpreted) Let's move onto -- we have no more questions. We have a question that was submitted through the e-mail by Mr. (inaudible) from Banco Brazil Investment Bank.

The question is -- good afternoon everyone, congratulations on the results you're presenting. A brief report please on the present situation of CRC, the account of compensating results because of the restructure of receivables. About this value, how is this question moving on from the point of cash flow in terms of economic results and the level of debt of the company?

The CRC issue, all remember, we had an addition to the contract that the state of Minas Gerais with guarantees of dividends. So that now this contract has a guarantee for its total time, which is 30 years of dividend guarantees that we pay to the state of Minas Gerais. And on the basis of this contract, we prepared a FIDC, which is a fund to make up for compensation receivables and we recognize that is debt because we guarantee a return of this contract.

At any rate we have been receiving continuously the CRC through the state's dividends that we're paying off every year and this can be seen on the bonus that we gave last April. This bonus comes from the inclusion of the principal paid by the state of Minas Gerais in this CRC agreement, therefore showing that the contract has been paid without any problem.

The company's debt had already been affected by that because the [CVM], the commission of stock values has decided that this is part of the exploratory note of [RDRs]. Accompanied debt therefore already considered in the financial indicators. Therefore we have no specific variation because of this FIDC contract. Therefore this is a subject that we considered as solved, which during the years is going to be paid established in the contract and the contract, which is a ten year contract, is going to be amortized in this period. Therefore we have no additional remark to make about this.

Well --

OPERATOR: Excuse me, we have a question from Mr. (inaudible) with Nevsky. (Inaudible) your line is open.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Hello?

OPERATOR: Sir you can go ahead.

LUIZ FERNANDO ROLLA: (interpreted) Hello. Your line is available.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Can you hear me?

LUIZ FERNANDO ROLLA: (interpreted) Yes.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Could the translator also talk because I can't hear you? I can only hear the translator.

Okay my question is, of the employee bonus, I think last quarter you stated that the long run average was about 4% to 5% of EBITDA. In the first quarter it was only R$22 million. Is this a recurring number?

The second question is on the Jirau plant. I think you said that you would be able to disclose the Jirau details the day after the bid. I don't see what difference it makes whether it's been approved or not by the Board. I don't see the problem of investors and the Board looking at the same numbers ahead of the decision. So has there been a change of policy there?

And lastly in the generation segment, what was the impact of the high spot prices in the market? What percentage of your volumes or of your assured energy were you able to sell at those high spot prices? So do you expect your average selling price in generation to be slightly lower in the second quarter now that spot prices have eased back?

LUIZ FERNANDO ROLLA: (interpreted) Well the question asked by Mr. [Harry Coby] first had to do with the personnel expenses. This increase that we had because of the lower transfer of expenses to our assets, whether such an additional expense would be recurrent.

As I said, this expense comes from a smaller realization of the investment program so lesser funds were invested. So as the investment is upgraded and reaches the level that we had programmed for, this personnel expense is going to be reduced because of the larger transfer of capitalization of such expenses by the investment program. Therefore it's not going to be recurrent.

Your second question had to do with generation. Correct me if I'm wrong, [Harry], but whether the price that we obtained in the first quarter came from an excess generation of an ensured power, well the additional revenues actually was due to the extra surplus of energy sold in the first quarter.

What I said was that in the first quarter 2007, we had a surplus generation to the ensured capacity in the first quarter 2008, such volume was much lower than the one we obtained in 2007. The generation capacity in the first quarter was reached, but not the surplus, hence lower volume of sales that we obtained.

But the price of power in the first quarter 20008 was well above the price of power obtained in 2007, hence again an increase in revenues in spite of the less volume of generation. This explains basically the evolution of generation earnings.

These seem to be the two questions that you asked us. You have an additional question?

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Yes. Just to confirm, so the higher price of power was not to do with the high spot prices, it was to do with your underlying contract prices? Is that correct?

And the additional question was on Jirau --

LUIZ FERNANDO ROLLA: (interpreted) Exactly so. The question is whether the higher price was [not] absorbed by a larger capacity of generation. Exactly because we had less generation of surplus power in the first quarter 2008.

Now as for Jirau, the most important thing, Mr. [Coby], is that we're going to have necessary time for our Board to approve the proposal that we made for Jirau. We can only disclose that after approval by the Board. As soon as the Board approves it, and if we are the winner party of course, we're going to disclose the figures of Jirau.

That's why we're not going to do it immediately after the bid because we would not have enough time to call a Board meeting to obtain the approval and then disclose the figures and publish those figures. But you can rest assured that we're going to disclose those figures in the same way as we promised we would do in terms of Santo Antonio, which we're going to do now on the 20th.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Okay. And my final question is on the distribution side. Looking at the regulatory EBITDA and looking at the reported EBITDA, there is a very large difference in the quarter between the regulatory EBITDA from the old tariff regime and the reported EBITDA. So what factors have been driving that difference? And will those factors still be in place when you move onto the new tariff structure in the second quarter?

LUIZ FERNANDO ROLLA: (interpreted) The question is what is the difference between the --

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: The regulatory EBITDA and the reported EBITDA.

LUIZ FERNANDO ROLLA: (interpreted) The regulatory EBITDA and the one that was reported in the first quarter. The regulatory EBITDA which was approved by ANEEL is good for the next 12 months beginning April. Therefore theoretically it is a figure that ANEEL has calculated as the EBITDA for the next 12 months beginning this month of April or last April. Therefore establishing a tariff that is going to be sufficient to reach that regulatory EBITDA.

Two remarks here. First, it doesn't take into account the efficiency gains that we may have in the next 12 months. Therefore they're not reflected in terms of efficiency gains.

Second is that if the market performs better or worse than predicted in the tariff process, we're going to have a variation there, up or down relative to the regulatory bid. We cannot (inaudible) say what the EBITDA is going to be, that we're going to report in the next quarters. We have to expect our economic projections that we're going to disclose in our event at the end of May. Then we're going to see all the figures, all the trends for the next years.

The comparison with the first quarter cannot be done because we had the first quarter with a tariff that was different from the one that is going to, let's say, preside over the next 12 months. Therefore in accordance to the regulatory logic, we will be at the upper limit of the remuneration for the last quarter of the period, which is the first quarter 2008.

So we can compare EBITDA of this quarter with the regulatory EBITDA, which is the one referring to the beginning of the next cycle. Therefore they're not comparable. But I ask you to be patient. At the end of the month in our event we're going to disclose the updating of our economic projections and then we're going to be able to perceive what is the real impact of the regulatory EBITDA upon the results of our distributor.

Now we can anticipate however that we do not foresee any significant variation vis-a-vis our guidance which was published last year. What is going to happen is an update of premises because in the previous guidance, we had already forecast the tariff revision. Therefore we have no surprises to include there. Okay.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Okay. My very last question is just coming back to the employees; I think it was misunderstood or mistranslated. I'm asking about the profit sharing that comes in below the tax line. Because previously I think this has averaged around 4% to 5% of EBITDA and in this quarter, it was R$22 million versus R$22 million in the first quarter '07. So is this now a stable quarterly number that we can expect on a recurring basis? Or can we expect it to go slightly higher towards the 4%, 5% of EBITDA level?

LUIZ FERNANDO ROLLA: (interpreted) The question is what is the difference between what was reported in the last quarter vis-a-vis the distribution of profits or dividends among employees, given the results of R$22 million in the first quarter.

The answer is, we cannot compare with last year because last year we had the inclusion of some other negotiations with our employees, whereby we eliminated some of the rights that the companies had about some bonuses that were not connected to performance. Therefore they are not included in the projection for 2008.

Therefore we still have to approve in our Board and the stockholder assembly what the criteria are and what are the volumes to be distributed to the employees. It's going to be an entirely different process from what took place last year because our statutes today demand the approval not only by the Board, but also by the stockholders' assembly. Therefore it's going to take place in a very transparent, clear manner for all stakeholders in this company.

We cannot anticipate whether this provision is going to be definitive or not. It will depend upon the performance of the results that we obtain until the end of the year. This figure that you see as the participation in the profits is only an estimate that we placed there so that we can anticipate some volume in our budget. But as I said, such participation in the profits is dependent upon the Company's performance. And as a function of such a performance it may vary. Okay?

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Okay. And finally, looking at the technical notes from the tariff revision, the note for factoring in a 5% year-on-year growth in distribution volumes to 40.2 terawatt hours in 2008 and this compares to a year-on-year growth rate in the first quarter of just 2.5%. So, so far are you seeing volumes on the distribution side growing at below the regulatory estimate for this year? I know that aggregate compound growth it was 3.5%, but for this year are you expecting the distribution volumes are going at a lower rate than in the technical notes of the tariff setting procedure?

UNIDENTIFIED COMPANY REPRESENTATIVE: (interpreted) In fact, the expectation is to fulfill exactly that which had been negotiated with ANEEL. I did not translate the question. The question has to do with the tariff revision. The tariff revision presents a market growth of 3.17% comparatively to what happened in the first quarter. According to Mr. [Coby's] calculations we had a performance below this value that was predicted by the tariff revision.

But in fact, what we're talking about this market growth excludes supply. Therefore we're talking about sales to final consumers, that is sales to final consumers as I said reached almost 6%, therefore slightly over 3.17%. But at any rate what was negotiated with ANEEL was the better perception of market growth for the next five years and which is this average of 3.17%. We estimate that this is going to be the performance of sales growth of the distributor segment in the next few years. Therefore the risk of having a performance below the 3.17% is quite low.

In the same way, to have a performance superior to this 3.17% is not as big as that either, unless the Brazilian GNP grows more speedily in the next years. But this is an estimate that we think is fitting and adequate, and we showed it to ANEEL and this is what we expect to reach in the next five years. Okay?

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Okay. Thank you very much indeed. Thank you.

LUIZ FERNANDO ROLLA: (interpreted) Thank you.

DJALMA BASTOS DE MORAIS: (interpreted) So we'll now close the webcast of the results of the first quarter 2008. We thank you all for your participation. We reaffirm our availability to clarify any doubts that you might still have. Thank you very much and good afternoon.

EDITOR: Portions of this transcript that are noted "interpreted" were interpreted on the conference call by an interpreter present on the live call. The interpreter was provided by the Company sponsoring this Event.

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Company / organization: Name: Thomson Financial; NAICS: 551111

Publication title: Fair Disclosure Wire; Linthicum

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 8, 2008

Publisher: CQ Roll Call

Place of publication: Linthicum

Country of publication: United States, Linthicum

Publication subject: Business And Economics, Law--Corporate Law

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

ProQuest document ID: 466156377

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Copyright: 2008 CCBN, Inc. and FDCH e-Media, Inc.

Last updated: 2018-02-23

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 163 of 313

Higher barley prices hit Inbev

Author: Sarah Laitner in Brussels; Jenny Wiggins in London

Publication info: FT.com ; London (May 9, 2008).

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InBev, brewer of Beck's and Stella Artois beers, predicted a better second half after a fall in Brazilian beer sales and higher commodities costs hit first-quarter results.

Net profit slipped to 249m, against 280m in the same period last year, the group reported on Thursday. The median of six analysts' estimates was 323m, according to Bloomberg.

Shares in InBev, which are listed in Brussels, declined by 5.9 per cent after the results but recovered some ground on Friday, trading 0.28 higher at 50.17.

The group was hit by rising prices for malting barley. Matthew Webb, analyst at Cazenove, said there had been "widespread regional shortages" of malting barley, and InBev seemed to be suffering more than other brewers.

The Belgium-based group's so-called "cost of sales" per hectolitre rose 10 per cent in the quarter and it had been unable to recover the full increase simply by raising prices.

Total volumes fell by 0.4 per cent year-on-year.

Poor bad weather, food price inflation and an early carnival holiday season - which cut the summer holiday period - were behind a decline the Brazilian market, InBev said.

Latin America accounts for more than half of the group's earnings, and InBev believes that the key Brazil market will return to growth over the coming quarters.

In Russia, which has been an important growth market, performance was also weak. Suppliers there bought stock before a price increase in January, and the group saw lower demand for its cheaper "value" beer brands, which account for nearly half of its Russian business.

There would be "greater challenges" to overcome in 2008 than in the past three years, Inbev added, though it was confident that it would deliver ebitda margin expansion in the second half.

Earnings per share were 0.41 against 0.46 last time.

Publication title: FT.com; London

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 9, 2008

Publisher: The Financial Times Limited

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 229098222

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Last updated: 2017-11-08

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 164 of 313

Earnings Digest Brief -- InBev SA: Net Falls 11% on Material Cost, Lower Beer Sales in Brazil

Publication info: Wall Street Journal , Eastern edition; New York, N.Y. [New York, N.Y]09 May 2008: B.4.

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InBev SA posted an 11% drop in first-quarter net profit as lower beer sales in Brazil and higher raw-material costs pinched margins. InBev, of Belgium, maker of beers like Stella Artois, Beck's and Brahma, said net fell to 249 million euros ($383.6 million) from 280 million euros a year earlier. Beer-volume sales fell 1.9% in Brazil -- hurt by bad weather and an early Carnival -- and production costs rose 9.9%. Revenue rose 4.8% to 3.2 billion euros from 3.05 billion euros.

Subject: Financial performance; Company reports; Breweries

Company / organization: Name: InBev SA; NAICS: 312120

Classification: 9173: Latin America; 8610: Food processing industry; 3100: Capital & debt management

Publication title: Wall Street Journal, Eastern edition; New York, N.Y.

Pages: B.4

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 9, 2008

Publisher: Dow Jones & Company Inc

Place of publication: New York, N.Y.

Country of publication: United States, New York, N.Y.

Publication subject: Business And Economics--Banking And Finance

ISSN: 00999660

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 399024620

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Copyright: (c) 2008 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. Reproduced with permission of copyright owner. Further reproduction or distribution is prohibited without permission.

Last updated: 2017-11-02

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Major Dailies

Document 165 of 313

May 11, 2008 (Page 24 of 305)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]11 May 2008: 24.

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Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 49

Issue: 16

First page: 24

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 11, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249411645

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249411645?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC May 11, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-30

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 166 of 313

REPORTERS BLOW LID OFF BRAZIL'S DEADLIEST CITY RECIFE VIOLENCE MOSTLY STAYS IN POOR AREAS

Author: Astor, Michael

Publication info: South Florida Sun - Sentinel ; Fort Lauderdale, Fla. [Fort Lauderdale, Fla]11 May 2008: A.24.

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"For 10 years we've been writing the same story, all that changes are the names of victims and the killers and the authorities giving the excuse of the moment," explains Joao Valadares. "It's only going to change when people become aware of the situation, not just when it arrives at their door, but when they realize these are people who are dying."

"What's going on here is effectively social cleansing," said Eduardo Machado, one of the group's founders. "The vast majority of victims share the same profile: poor, black men between 15 and 30 living in the outskirts and killed by a .38 revolver."

He also argues that Recife's murder rate is high compared to with other cities only because his department counts them more accurately. "Other states don't count police killings as murders or sometimes they count seven people murdered in a single incident as just one killing," [Joaquim Neto] said. "We don't do that."

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Ines Maria da Silva stares blankly outside her shack as she describes how she lost all five of her sons to the violence that makes Recife the deadliest major city in Brazil.

The first son died 15 years ago, in a fight over a girl, another after telling a mob he didn't want a pedophile lynched on his doorstep. The third was stabbed while arguing with a friend and the fourth was shot dead, mistaken for a thief.

Her last remaining son was felled by a stray bullet as he joined Recife's famed carnival celebrations a year ago.

"I just want to understand, how come no one is punished?" said the 68-year-old widow, who now cares for six grandchildren and three unemployed daughters, and collects cans, bottles and garbage to feed her pigs in Recife's squalid Coque shantytown.

"There are people here who just kill for fun," da Silva said. "Two of the men who killed my sons are my neighbors. If I had somewhere to go I would have moved out a long time ago."

This seaside city, a favorite of European tourists, gets much more attention for the shark attacks that have killed 18 people since 1992 than for its human killings - at least 2,617 in the metropolitan area last year. While tourists are warned not to take valuables to the beaches, as in most Brazilian cities, little is said about the murder rate mostly because the violence largely stays in the poor areas.

While Rio de Janeiro's bloody drug war makes international headlines, this balmy city of 1.5 million has a homicide rate of 90.9 per 100,000 - more than twice as deadly as Rio, according to the Latin American Technological Network's Map of Violence.

Now, a group of local crime reporters is working to show the human cost of the death toll.

"For 10 years we've been writing the same story, all that changes are the names of victims and the killers and the authorities giving the excuse of the moment," explains Joao Valadares. "It's only going to change when people become aware of the situation, not just when it arrives at their door, but when they realize these are people who are dying."

Valadares and three colleagues have launched www.pebodycount.com.br, featuring a death-toll counter updated daily with details of murders across Pernambuco state. As of Thursday, this year's count stood at 1,594 and rising. They are working with another Web site that uses Google Map technology to mark the location of each murder with a little red flag.

"What's going on here is effectively social cleansing," said Eduardo Machado, one of the group's founders. "The vast majority of victims share the same profile: poor, black men between 15 and 30 living in the outskirts and killed by a .38 revolver."

More than 40 percent of the murders are committed by death squads - clandestine groups of off-duty and former police officers who are dedicated to executing undesirable elements - according to Jose Luiz Ratton, a sociologist who advises the governor on violence.

Other motivations include rural machismo - a culture of honor and revenge killings, Ratton says.

"In Rio de Janeiro the problem is organized crime," he said. "Here the problem is disorganized crime."

Ratton has compiled a plan on how the state government might begin to combat the violence, but little of it has been implemented so far.

The killings are front-page news only on the rare occasions when middle- or upper-class people are killed. But each night's carnage is fodder for the city's three wildly popular TV crime shows.

The TV crews won't go to the scenes until police have arrived, for fear of being attacked. And shantytown dwellers don't volunteer many details to outsiders.

"Here if you know too much, you die," said a man who would provide only his nickname "Biscoito," or biscuit, as he watched the journalists refreshing a faded red silhouette.

State security secretariat spokesman Joaquim Neto acknowledges the murder rate is high but points out that murders so far this year are down 6 percent, which he attributes to his department's success in dismantling 13 death squads.

He also argues that Recife's murder rate is high compared to with other cities only because his department counts them more accurately. "Other states don't count police killings as murders or sometimes they count seven people murdered in a single incident as just one killing," Neto said. "We don't do that."

Illustration

Photo(s) { SB; Caption: Deadly streets: People look at the body of Thiago Franklino de Lima, 21, who was killed at the Coque slum, in Recife, Brazil, on Jan. 22. Recife has a homicide rate of 90.9 per 100,000, more than twice as deadly as Rio de Janeiro, according to the Latin American Technological Network's Map of Violence.AP file photo

People: Ratton, Jose Luiz

Publication title: South Florida Sun - Sentinel; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

First page: A.24

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 11, 2008

Dateline: RECIFE, Brazil

Section: News

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: En glish

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 389747126

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/389747126?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by the Sun-Sentinel)

Last updated: 2017-11-10

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 167 of 313

May 12, 2008 (Page 25 of 34)

Publication info: Tallahassee Democrat (1949-2011) ; Tallahassee, Florida [Tallahassee, Florida]12 May 2008: 25.

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Publication title: Tallahassee Democrat (1949-2011); Tallahassee, Florida

Volume: 103

Issue: 133

First page: 25

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 12, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Tallahassee, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Tallahassee, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 0738-5153

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2095951081

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2095951081?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. May 12, 2008

Last updated: 2018-08-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 168 of 313

Q1 2008 MERCADOLIBRE INC Earnings Conference Call - Final

Publication info: Fair Disclosure Wire ; Linthicum [Linthicum]13 May 2008.

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OPERATOR: Good morning and welcome to Mercadolibre's first quarter 2008 earnings conference call. Today's call is being recorded.

At this time I would like to turn the conference over Mr. Pedro Arnt. Please go ahead sir.

PEDRO ARNT, HEAD OF IR, MERCADOLIBRE INC: Thank you and welcome once again everyone for Mercadolibre's earnings release conference call for the quarter ended March 31, 2008. This conference call is also being broadcast over the Internet and is available through the investor relations section of our website.

Before I hand the conference over to Marcos and Nicolas, I remind you that during today's call management may make forward-looking statements relating to such matters as continued growth prospects for the company, industry trends and product and technology initiatives. These statements are based on currently available information and our current assumptions, expectations and projections about future events. While we believe that our assumptions, expectations and projections are reasonable, in view of the currently available information, you are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Our actual results may differ materially from those discussed in this call for a variety of reasons, including those described in the forward-looking statements and risk factor sections of our 10Q, 10K and other filings with the Securities & Exchange Commission which are also available on our investor relations website.

With that, let me turn the call over to Mercadolibre's CEO, Marcos Galperin.

MARCOS GALPERIN, CEO, MERCADOLIBRE INC: Thank you Pedro, and thank you all for joining us today. I'd like to walk you through some of the highlights from the first quarter and then hand the call over to Nicolas who will go into greater detail on our financial performance before we take your questions.

Q1 of 2008 was another good quarter for Mercadolibre. Despite the fact that Easter fell during the first quarter this year, we're off to a solid start to 2008. Our result continues to be driven by our very strong operational model and commitment to technical quality and reliability; our market leadership position in Latin America as the number one online retail site in all of our major markets as ranked by comScore Media Metrix and the continuous healthy expansion of Internet use and of Broadband Internet access across the region; growth in consumer confidence and PC penetration rates among Latin America; generally strong growth throughout Latin American economies including Brazil, which was recently granted investment grade status by Standard & Poor's, and our long-term focus in our users, buyers, sellers and visitors.

All these factors contributed to strong GMVe and TPV growth. In addition take rate continued to increase as our non-GMVe related revenues streams, advertising and classifieds, continued to grow very fast. For the first quarter total net revenue was up 75% to $28.8 million over the first quarter last year, driven by strong performance from both our Marketplace and Payments businesses.

We were also pleased that growth was solid across all countries in which we operate. Revenue for our Marketplace business unit, which also includes classified and advertisement, was $23.5 million, up 65% from the first quarter of 2007. This was led by solid growth in live listings, unique sellers, unique buyers and gross merchandise volumes.

In Payments revenue increased 137% to $5.4 million in the quarter. Generally Mercado Pago continued to deliver strong results, generating robust revenue and profitability growth. This was driven in great part by sustained year-on-year growth in listings, share, significant reductions in fraud rates and the success of credit card installments financing in Brazil.

Further, you may recall that in the fourth quarter we launched our efficient new Payments platform Mercado Pago 3.0 in Chile and Colombia, and are pleased that it has been well received. This new platform removes the escrow and shifts the payment of the processing fee from the buyer to the seller thereby making the process faster and more compelling.

Additionally, Mercado Pago 3.0 also enables payments both inside and outside of our platform, vastly expanding the addressable market for our payment platform. We expanded this platform to Argentina in February of this year and expect to expand Mercado Pago 3.0 to other countries in which we operate throughout 2008.

Separately, we made great strides in growing our Classifieds and Advertising businesses increasing revenue and gaining market share across the region. As we have said all along, we believe that this accelerated growth underscores the real potential in these segments for Mercadolibre.

As we mentioned in our press release, our operating margin was impacted by a $0.4 million in compensation expense related to our acquisition of TuCarro. Including this extraordinary expense, our income from our operations was $6.5 million using an operating income margin of 22.7%.

Also as mentioned in our press release, net income of $2.1 million or 0.05 per diluted share was impacted by an effective tax rate of 58.1%. Higher taxes were largely the result of new tax introductions in Mexico in the form of the [year two] tax as well as certain non-deductibles in Venezuela, both of which resulted in an increase of the company's blended tax rate as a percentage of net income, before income and after tax.

Additionally, during the first quarter we made solid progress in realizing synergies of the TuCarro acquisition, particularly in IT and back end integration. The full integration and incorporation of TuCarro acquisition continues to advance according to plan and we are already showing TuCarro's listings in Mercadolibre's platform as well as leveraging cross-selling opportunities in ad sales.

We work to further establish the Mercadolibre brand by developing our cable television brand marketing campaign that is targeted to reach directly our user base. We launched the campaign in mid-April and the initial feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

We strengthened our Board of Directors and Corporate Governors with the addition of Mario Vasquez, former President of Telefonica Argentina and with 23 years of auditing experience as a former head of Arthur Anderson in the southern corner of Latin America. Mr. Vasquez will chair our audit committee. Our Board of Directors is now comprised of a total of eight directors, of which six are independent.

Looking forward to the remainder of 2008 we are very pleased that the momentum we saw last year has carried over into the first quarter. And we are well positioned to leverage the positive growth trends influencing Internet, Broadband and PC penetration rates in Latin America.

For the remainder of 2008 we will remain focused on driving long-term value to our share holders by providing our buyers and sellers with the access to the best possible online marketplace. More specifically our efforts will concentrate on ongoing improvements of our pricing and listing formats, constant expansion of our classifieds and advertising segments, improving our search and financing options, expanding our presence in the social shopping space by enhancing content and offering small, medium sized and large retailers the tools they need to drive e-commerce both on and off our trading platforms. We believe this strategy will continue to drive growth for the company and provide value for our shareholders.

With that, I'd like to turn it over to Nicolas for a more detailed review of our financial performance. Then we'll both return to take the questions.

NICOLAS SZEKASY, CFO, MERCADOLIBRE INC: Thanks Marcos. Overall Q1 was a very good quarter in which we continued to deliver accelerating revenue growth. We achieved healthy gross margins and year-over-year economies of scale in our operating expenses and therefore generated solid profitability.

Specifically, net revenues grew 75% to $28.8 million. Gross profit margin was healthy at 79.1%. Income from operations was $6.5 million, operating income margin expanded versus Q1 of last year to 22.7%, and net income was $2.1 million. Revenue growth was driven primarily by the addition of 1.6 million new confirmed registered users bringing the total to 26.5 million, and acceleration to a 44% increase in Marketplace gross merchandise volumes to $450 million, and acceleration to a 96% increase in the total Payment volume to $52 million, and an improvement in our consolidated take rate to 6.4% from 5.3% for Q1 of '07.

You may recall the take rate is measured by revenues as a percentage of GMVe. On a consolidated basis the take rate has increased in part because payments have grown faster than the marketplace. That's driving the average take rate upwards. In addition, we saw an increase in the Marketplace segment take rate to 5.2% from 4.5% in Q1 last year, and an increase in the Payment segment to 10.2% from 8.5% a year ago.

The Marketplace take rate growth versus last year was driven primarily by upgrades to our sorting algorithms, changes in the pricing structure and solid growth in classifieds and advertising. The Payments take rate gains versus Q1 of '07 were driven mostly by the impact of 12 installments financing in Brazil. A 75% total year-over-year revenue growth in Q1 of 2008 represented a continued acceleration for the fifth quarter in a row as the growth rate in Q4 of last year had been 74%, in Q3 72%, in Q2 53% and in Q1 50%.

In Q1 2008 the Marketplace segment slightly accelerated the growth rate year-over-year versus Q4, and the payment segment slightly decelerated. Our Marketplace revenue grew 65% to $23.5 million and Payment revenues increased 137% to $5.4 million. The Marketplace represented 81% of revenues and Payments 19% versus an 86% 14% breakdown in the same quarter of last year.

We had a positive foreign exchange impact in Q1 of 2008. If we excluded the impact of currency rate changes and calculated total Q1 '08 top line using Q4 '07 exchange rates, the year-over-year growth would have been 72%. The acquisition of TuCarro also contributed to the company's revenue growth. If we subtracted the revenue from TuCarro the year-over-year growth would have been 68%.

Gross profit grew 76% to $22.8 million representing 79.1% of revenues versus 78.8% for the same period one year earlier. Improvements during Q1 2008 in cost of goods sold in the Payment segment was the key driver of this improvement and more than offset the higher rate of growth in payments as compared to the Marketplace.

Total operating expenses for the period totaled $16.3 million, a 63% increase year-over-year. As described for the top line year-over-year comparisons, the acquisition of TuCarro and exchange rates also contributed to the growth in expenses. In addition, there were some extraordinary effects and some differences for line items that we would like to highlight.

G&A grew 99% year-over-year in Q1 of 2008, mainly due to the following factors. First, in the quarter we recorded a $0.4 million expense related to TuCarro, as mentioned by Marcos. The reason for this item was that, as part of the deal, $2 million out of the $19 million consideration paid were placed into a [national] account for 12 months.

The purpose of this escrow was to secure the obligations of the former shareholders [that remain as managers] pursuant to their employment agreement. Under EITF 95-8 we recognized the quarterly accrual of this contingent consideration paid to the former shareholders as an operational compensation for services and not as part of the purchase price.

During Q2 we have agreed with these former shareholders to an early release of the $2 million in exchange for a discount. Therefore, we expect that we will record the unaccrued amount net of the discount or $1.5 million in Q2 of this year.

Second, we expensed approximately $0.2 million related to the follow on offering that was withdrawn in March. And third, we had new public company expenses in Q1 of this year versus none last year.

Product and technology development expenses grew 79% compared to the same quarter one year ago, mostly as we added developers in our main Buenos Aires center and in our second center in the province of San Luis as part of our plan to increase our software development capabilities. And sales and marketing grew 46% versus Q1 of 2007.

As a result of the factors just discussed, income from operations including the TuCarro related expense grew 118% year-over-year to $6.5 million, representing a 22.7% operating income margin. Other expenses were $1 million of foreign currency losses, which were mostly generated as we transferred cash outside of Venezuela, and $1.5 million of interest expense and other financial charges which were mostly derived from financing costs incurred to fund Mercado Pago working capital needs in Brazil.

Pretax net income was $4.9 million, 163% higher than in the same quarter of last year. In terms of taxes we accounted $2.9 million in Q1 of 2008. This represented a tax rate of 58.1%, which as Marcos mentioned, was affected by a new tax in Mexico and some ForEx losses in Venezuela that are not deductible in addition to the impact of the sum of some of the acquisition-related non-deductible expenses recorded in Q1.

Net income for the three months ending March 31, 2008 was $2.1 million or $0.05 per diluted share, reflecting an increase of 108% compared with $1 million during the same period of 2007. Net cash provided by operating activities during Q1 of 2008 was $6.9 million versus $2.5 million in Q1 of 2007. We continue to generate strong operating cash flows in our Marketplace segment.

In addition, in Q1 we also generated working capital in our Payment segment as we funded our needs primary by discounting credit card receivables directly from some credit card processors. It was therefore recorded as a reduction in the funds receivable from customers' balance.

Net cash used in financing activities was $6.2 million, driven by the repayment of some of the loans [backed] with credit card receivables that we had outstanding last December. Purchases of property and equipment were $1.1 million in the quarter and depreciation and amortization was $0.7 million.

In summary, we're very pleased with our robust growth for the quarter and with our continued ability to achieve solid profitability gains.

And now we would be pleased to answer your questions. Operator?

OPERATOR: (OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS) We'll take our first question from Imran Khan of JP Morgan.

JOE BUSCHEL, ANALYST, JP MORGAN: Yes, hi guys. This is [Joe Buschel] for Imran. A couple of questions; on ad revenue what was the ad revenue growth rate for the quarter? And are you guys seeing any improvements in conversions of listings with the rollout of Pago 3.0? Thank you.

NICOLAS SZEKASY: Yes, let me first take the ad revenue question. As you know, advertising revenues is part of our Marketplace segment. We do not break that down. At the time of the IPO we were producing a specific number for advertising; at that time it was less than 1% of our revenues. What we can say is that it has been growing faster than the rest of the Marketplace segment, but we're not breaking down specifically the growth rate for that.

MARCOS GALPERIN: With respect to Mercado Pago, as you know we launched it in Argentina, which is the first time we launched it in a country that has the prior version of Mercado Pago. Initial results are good, but it's very early to draw conclusions. It's a new product, it's a [better] product I would say. We are working on fixing different bugs and to roll it out to the rest of the countries where we operate throughout the year.

JOE BUSCHEL: Good, thank you.

MARCOS GALPERIN: Next question?

OPERATOR: Next we go to Bob Ford of Merrill Lynch.

BOB FORD, ANALYST, MERRILL LYNCH: Good evening, everybody. It's just a follow up, Marcos, on Pago. I'm just curious, I think I can get a sense for how Pago sales are responding, but I'm curious as to how to consumers are responding to the switch in the [friction].

MARCOS GALPERIN: Hi, Bob. As we were saying initial results are good. As you know, we have the new version that buyers do not have to pay for using it, so obviously good results from buyers in that sense. Now sellers have to pay for the cost; I think they understand the value of this. So as I was saying early, it's a new product, it's a [better] product, but we believe it's going to be fantastic for Mercadolibre in the medium term and long term, and we look forward to rolling it out to other markets.

BOB FORD: And at these levels right now, do you think acceptance rates have stabilized amongst some of your Pago sellers, or are they still pushing back a little bit?

MARCOS GALPERIN: No, I think they have stabilized. Obviously, as you know, we have lots of leverage to drive adoption of Mercado Pago amongst our Pago sellers and our sellers in general, particularly as we include offering Mercado Pago as one of the relevant items in our sorting algorithm. We are not doing that yet because, as we were saying, we want to make sure we have the product working in the right way before we start promoting it aggressively amongst our sellers.

BOB FORD: Okay, great. And maybe could address the full year effective tax rate, at least your expectations, because it sounds like when it comes to the (inaudible) that's something that's not going to change, right?

NICOLAS SZEKASY: Yes, as we said the tax rate in Q1 was affected by the impact of some extraordinary expenses related to TuCarro plus some other US-based expenses which are not deductible. And in addition to that we had an impact from this [year two] tax in Mexico and from some ForEx losses in Venezuela that in the past we could deduct, but not any more.

So basically as we go forward we estimate that the tax line in the P&L, as a percentage of pretax income, should be lower going forward than in Q1; as you know the tax rate in most of the countries where we operate is around 35%. We are basically currently analyzing the impact of some of these new taxes and some of this new FX and some of these expenses which are not tax deductible and we will be revaluating our tax planning as a result of our current analysis. So that's it, yes, basically.

BOB FORD: Okay. But is it fair to say that lower than the first quarter, but perhaps higher than the effective tax rate that we saw last year which was around 33%, 32.8% something like that?

NICOLAS SZEKASY: We're currently revaluating our tax planning as a result of some of these new indications and some of these new taxes. So probably we can be more specific down the road once we have a clearer picture.

BOB FORD: I understand, alright. And lastly, can you give a sense of what percentage of GMVe right now is getting done on installments in Brazil?

MARCOS GALPERIN: So a fraction of our GMVe is being paid through Mercado Pago. If you look at our consolidated numbers it's roughly between 12% and 15% I believe. And the majority of those payments in Brazil are being done through installments.

BOB FORD: Okay, great. Thank you very much.

MARCOS GALPERIN: Thank you.

NICOLAS SZEKASY: Q1 it was close to 12% penetration. TPV divided by GMVe Q1 overall.

OPERATOR: Our next question will come from Steve Weinstein of Pacific Crest.

STEVE WEINSTEIN, ANALYST, PACIFIC COAST: Great, thank you. I just have a couple of questions for you. When I look at the geographic breakdown you provide in the release, can you help us understand how the ad revenue would be allocated across the segments? Is it reflective of the overall revenue mix with the company? Or is it more weighted towards certain geographies now?

And then, second, just quick scan the numbers, it does look like Mexico is a lower margin business for you, relative to the other geographies. I'm wondering if you could just talk about what those factors are today and whether those are near term or longer term? Do you think those could be issues?

MARCOS GALPERIN: Sure. The ad, as we said before we don't break that down, but there's no reason why it shouldn't follow the same patterns as revenues in general. So our view of this is that it should be very similar in terms of our revenues breakdown overall.

In terms of Mexico, in some ways between Brazil, that has the advantages of scale and therefore margins are better there, and Argentina that has about the same size as Mexico, but has a lower cost structure. In general costs in Argentina are lower than in Mexico, labor costs in particular. So in some ways Mexico is in the middle of a larger country and a country with a lower cost basis. As the business grows we would like to see that it scales similarly to what we have seen in Brazil and eventually margins there will be converging to what we have in Brazil.

STEVE WEINSTEIN: Good. Thank you.

OPERATOR: Next we'll go to Ricardo Fernandez from Banco Itau.

RICARDO FERNANDEZ, ANALYST, BANCO ITAU: Yeah hi, everybody. First a request. I don't know if it's everybody, but I always get your reports two minutes before the conference call starts and it's difficult to look at the numbers and ask a question intelligibly in two minutes. I don't know if you guys work on that or it's my system, I don't know.

The first question is looking at GMV. It grew a little bit shy of 44% year-over-year in US dollar terms which, if you assume the breakdown for Brazil would be some 15% less that in local currency, which is not as good as probably the market leader in, we'll call, it retail. The question I have then is, are you noticing a slow up in terms of transactions in local currencies for whatever reason? Or is this completely in line with your numbers?

NICOLAS SZEKASY: Yes, so apologize for getting the numbers right before the call. We would like to make that with a little bit more time for the next call. With respect to our growth rate in Brazil, revenues grew 54% year-on-year. GMV overall grew 44% as we were saying. We had overall 3 percentage points quarter-over-quarter growth due to currency. So I would say overall we are satisfied with our growth. Local currency, average selling prices have increased everywhere and so overall we are very satisfied with our growth rate this quarter everywhere. And obviously Brazil is a very large part of our business and is the key driver to our overall growth rate.

RICARDO FERNANDEZ: But are you seeing any -- go ahead, sorry.

NICOLAS SZEKASY: It's just to complement that [ASPs] have grown in part due to currency, but also importantly, as Marcos was saying, we saw this in every country, as users have become more comfortable over time using the Internet, buying over the Internet, they have shifted to higher ticket items. And also in our case as Mercado Pago has grown in penetration, the Mercado Pago ASP is higher than the non-Mercado Pago ASP, so that has also driven prices for us in general.

RICARDO FERNANDEZ: Okay, but the question is on general merchandizing value, looking at it more like a retailer, although you're not. In my opinion it seems to me that you're beginning to fall behind in terms of total merchandise moved on your website versus the B2W websites. And even perhaps some of the other ones like [Sadive] which was much smaller, but they're seeing much faster [rais] growth rates. I just wonder if this is something that you expected, or is it something that you're trying to improve? Just a quick comment on that.

MARCOS GALPERIN: Overall we focus on our growth rate. General large retailers, medium retailers and small retailers we view them as clients, not as competitors. What we do is put together buyers and sellers within our platform, or increasingly outside of our platform, as a marketplace, not as a retailer. And therefore what we do is focus on our growth rates. We are satisfied with our growth rates everywhere. We are satisfied with our growth rates in Brazil. We are at some marketplace by far the site with the largest attraction and visitors and people coming over to buy. And we will continue to focus on our buyers, our sellers, our visitors and in trying to help all of them succeed doing e-commerce. This includes the large retailers in Brazil and everywhere in Latin America.

NICOLAS SZEKASY: Just got one clarification. Typically when you look at the revenues from retailers, they include the financing business in there. In our case our Payments business, our Payments revenues, which is largely driven by Brazil, is segmented and it's shown separately. And that, as we said, has grown 137% year-over-year in Q1 '08.

RICARDO FERNANDEZ: Okay, thanks a lot. Take care.

MARCOS GALPERIN: Thank you.

OPERATOR: Next we'll go to Tim Boyd of American Technology.

TIM BOYD, ANALYST, AMERICAN TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH: Yes, thank you. I was wondering if you'd comment at all on the breakdown -- your other countries segment of the Marketplace revenue was a pretty big acceleration in year-over-year growth. I don't know if you can give us any color on which countries there are growing the fastest.

And as a second question if you can comment at all about the progress with rolling out Mercado Pago 3.0 in Brazil. Can you give us a conservative estimate of when you think that will be complete? Thanks.

NICOLAS SZEKASY: Yes, the others segment is broken down into some larger countries for us, that's Venezuela, Colombia, Chile and then a bunch of medium-sized countries and then some other operations that we launched later on in Central America and the Caribbean in which we still don't even charge. So the service there is offered for free. I would see that going forward as an additional opportunity for portfolio growth here.

So these are mostly countries that are smaller and are less mature, relative to Brazil, Mexico or Argentina. So we expect there to see stronger growth and also there we don't have the full pricing spectrum even in some of the other countries, and we have some more pricing opportunities so that is also part of the equation.

TIM BOYD: Is it fair to say that the larger of these less mature countries are contributing most growth at this point?

NICOLAS SZEKASY: Yes, I think that's fair to say that, yes.

TIM BOYD: Thank you.

MARCOS GALPERIN: The second part of the question, can you say that again?

TIM BOYD: Sure. It's just from a Mercado Pago 3.0 rolling it out in Brazil. Can you give us an estimate that you feel comfortable with in terms of when you believe that will be complete?

NICOLAS SZEKASY: Yes. We want to complete the process in Argentina. The expectation is '08, but we don't have a specific date that we can communicate at this point.

TIM BOYD: Alright. Thank you.

MARCOS GALPERIN: Thank you, Tim.

OPERATOR: Next we'll go to [Steven Dew] from Royal Bank of Canada.

STEVEN DEW, ANALYST, ROYAL BANK OF CANADA: Good afternoon, everybody. So I'm looking at the number of successful items sold and it seems to be decelerating, but the average ticket is coming up to compensate to drive the GMV acceleration. So can you give us some more color in terms of what's driving this? Is it a shift of consumer behavior? Or is seller adoption perhaps in the lower ticket non-consumer electronics categories a bit slower than you would have expected? Thanks.

MARCOS GALPERIN: So successful license has been decelerating during '07. We believe largely a consequence of the new sorting algorithm we introduced during Q1 of '07 that [punished] those transactions, those successful items that were not successfully being converted into final value fees being paid. Our sellers learned and modified their behavior throughout the year. We believe this had an impact in decelerating successful items and didn't have a similar impact in revenues. In Q1 of '08 as expected this effect started to disappear and the growth rate of successful items stabilized relative to Q4. We would expect the growth of successful items going forward to resemble the growth of broadband and e-commerce growth in the region.

STEVEN DEW: Yes, thank you.

OPERATOR: (OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS) Next we'll go to [Vic Kumar] from [Soundpost Partners].

VIC KUMAR, ANALYST, SOUNDPOST PARTNERS: Hi guys. I just wanted to get a better sense for what drove the Marketplace take rate. And specifically whether changes made in pricing or sorting algorithms in Q1 of this year versus Q4 '07?

MARCOS GALPERIN: Yes, we did significant changes throughout Q1 of last year. So we have seen all of last year the effect and some of the effect in Q1 of this year. And that's the largest chunk of the project, but we have also been doing some upgrades as we went along. We have also been doing some recalibrations in our pricing structures throughout last year. We continued doing that in Q1 of this year, in Q1 of '08, large sum marginal price increases. On top of that classifieds and advertising have been growing faster than the core marketplace and those also drove the take rate expansion in Q1 of this year versus Q1 of last year.

NICOLAS SZEKASY: Typically, the change in pricing, the direction where we're going is lowering the fixed cost, that is insertion fees, and increasing the variable costs, that is the costs that are tied to our successful transaction.

VIC KUMAR: But what drove the quarter-over-quarter increase from Q4 '07 to Q1 since most of those changes are already implemented, I guess?

MARCOS GALPERIN: It's some recalibrations as we said in prices. Some price increases, although marginal, in Q1 of this year and a strong performance in classifieds and advertising even relative to before.

VIC KUMAR: Okay, thank you.

MARCOS GALPERIN: Next question?

OPERATOR: Next we'll go to [Peter Lyons] of Oscar Gruss.

PETER LYONS, ANALYST, OSCAR GRUSS: Hi guys, I have two questions. One, if you could address the impact of the removal of the CPMS tax in Brazil. How that affects any of these transactions? How it affects your costs?

And also if you could give me a sense on the currency effect for your operating expenses. You mentioned it with regards to the revenues. I'm curious in general terms what you saw as the effect on your OpEx.

NICOLAS SZEKASY: Yes, on the removal of the CPMS tax there was an increase in another tax which I think is the IOF, and both effects were compensating each other basically. So there hasn't been a significant impact one way or the other.

MARCOS GALPERIN: Can you repeat the second question please?

PETER LYONS: Yes, you mentioned in your opening remarks about the impact on revenues from currency fluctuations. If you could address the same type of impact on OpEx due to currency fluctuation.

NICOLAS SZEKASY: Yes, one second. It was approximately 2 percentage points more expensive in Q4 relative to if we used the exchange rate of Q4 of last year.

PETER LYONS: Okay. So 2% more expensive quarter-over-quarter?

NICOLAS SZEKASY: Yes. And when we talked about revenues we were also doing the same calculation Q1 '08 revenues using the Q4 '07 exchange rates.

PETER LYONS: Okay, great. I got you. And also in general terms, do you notice a seasonality effect in the first quarter, particularly in Brazil? Things might slow down; how do you see any impact from seasonality?

NICOLAS SZEKASY: Yes. We have quite strong negative seasonality in Q1. It's the summer in the southern hemisphere so that affects Brazil mostly, but also some of our operations. We also have carnival in Brazil in February; that takes basically one week where business is very soft. So normally you will see that Q1 is our softest quarter and Q4 is our strongest quarter. Particularly this year Easter, which is a softer week for us, fell in Q1 and last year it fell in Q2, so that also affected our year-over-year comparisons this year.

PETER LYONS: Okay, great. Thank you very much.

OPERATOR: As it appears there are no further questions at this time I'd like to hand this conference back over to management for any additional or closing remarks.

PEDRO ARNT: Once again thank you everyone for attending and we hope to hear from you again in next quarter's release. Thank you very much.

OPERATOR: Ladies and gentlemen, that does conclude today's teleconference. We'd like to thank you all for your participation and have a great day.

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Company / organization: Name: Thomson Financial; NAICS: 551111

Publication title: Fair Disclosure Wire; Linthicum

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 13, 2008

Publisher: CQ Roll Call

Place of publication: Linthicum

Country of publication: United States, Linthicum

Publication subject: Business And Economics, Law--Corporate Law

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Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

ProQuest document ID: 467028995

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Last updated: 2018-02-23

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 169 of 313

Q1 2008 Davide Campari-Milano S.p.A. Earnings Conference Call - Final

Publication info: Fair Disclosure Wire ; Linthicum [Linthicum]14 May 2008.

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Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

OPERATOR: Good afternoon ladies and gentlemen and welcome to the Campari presentation of the First Quarter 2008 Results Conference Call hosted by Mr. Bob Kunze-Concewitz. My name is Kevin and I am your Event Manager. During the presentation your lines will remain on listen-only.

(OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS)

I'd like to advise all parties that this call is being recorded for replay purposes. And now I'd like to hang over to Mr. Kunze-Concewitz.

BOB KUNZE-CONCEWITZ, CEO, DAVIDE CAMPARI-MILANO S.P.A.: Thank you. Good afternoon and welcome to the Grupo Campari Q1 '08 Conference Call. If you please join me on page three, I'll start up with the overall review.

Overall, we're performing as planned in an expected tougher environment. Our net sales came in at EUR190.9 million, which is a decrease of 2.9% at actual FOREX and 0.7% at constant FOREX. What we see is that overall in the small quarters, our net sales were negatively affected by the already preannounced changes in our U.S. portfolio and also by the U.S. dollar.

Our EBITDA at EUR50.2 million increased by 8% at actual FOREX and 10.1% at constant FOREX. EBIT at EUR45 million had the same overall performances, up by 8% at actual FOREX and 10.3% at constant FOREX.

Last, but not least, the group's pre-tax profit at EUR40.1 million, was up by 6.8% at actual FOREX and 8.6% at constant FOREX. Overall we're satisfied that we've achieved the objective of offsetting the Tequila 1800 profit loss by our new brands Cabo Wabo, X-Rated and new agency brands.

We also notified that we have had a shift in A&P from Q1 to Q2 and Q3, which is the logical consequence of the launch of the SKYY Infusions concepts, the relaunch of the overall franchise in April of this year and the fact that CampariSoda is returning to TV advertising in April, that started last week, and will return again in September.

We have also continued with our strong cash generation. This was driven by improvements in operating working capital and we had a reduction, of course, to EUR54 million versus December '07.

Moving on to page four and growth drivers, what we see is that the overall [2.1%] decline in net sales encompasses a 1.3% positive organic growth. The organic growth was soft as expected, mostly due to the announced SKYY destocking, ahead the relaunch of the franchise, and it is also worth noting that we were running against some very tough comps, with Q1 '07 overall having 11.3% organic growth.

The negative change in perimeter of 2.1% is related to the termination of the Tequila 1800 agency business in the U.S., which was partly offset by the positive contribution of Cabo Wabo, X-Rated, Bowmore and Flor de Cana.

The negative foreign exchange impact of 2.1% was attributable almost wholeheartedly to the U.S. dollar, which declined significantly versus the same period a year ago of 12.6%.

Moving on to page five and our development by region, what we see, starting with our largest business unit, Italy, we had very satisfactory results overall and organic growth of 4.4%, which is a good organic growth across all of our key categories in what remains a tough market environment.

Europe continued with a solid progression, 6.9% overall, 7.5% organic, with a solid progression across major markets. The Americas, obviously, with the restage of the SKYY relaunch changes in the portfolio has had the biggest variation.

Overall, in the Americas, net sales declined by 22.6%, which is a combination of an 8.7% organic decline, which is wholeheartedly related to the SKYY destocking and an external effect of 7.4% negative related to Tequila 1800, which was, as I mentioned earlier, partially offset by the new brands joining the portfolio. And then at big negative 6.5% FOREX effect.

Moving on to our analysis by segment, it is obvious that with the changes in portfolio and in performance in the U.S. in the first quarter, spirits were impacted overall, our spirits segment. Our overall performance was a decrease of 7.2% with a negative organic growth of 1.6%, negative external growth of 2.9% and FOREX impact of minus 2.7%.

The reasons for this are those mentioned in the earlier slide. the changes happening in the U.S. portfolio. It is also important to underline the fact that, especially with regards to SKYY, we were running against comps of a 21.5% increase last year, which was due to sales ahead of a significant price increase.

Our wine business continued to perform satisfactorily. Overall a 3.3% growth, 3.7% organic. What we have here is a continued strong performance of Cinzano, which is one hand mitigated by tough comps.

Last year, in Q1 that business grew by 24.5%, which was due to some fiscal changes in one of our main markets, Russia. And on the other hand, this year, we had a weak quarter on Riccadonna in Australasia and we expect to recover in the quarters to come.

Soft drinks had a very strong quarter, overall growing by 12.8%, driven by very strong Crodino performance as well as satisfactory, and actually quite good, carbonated soft drinks results.

Now these changes in the first quarter, obviously, impacted our breakdown by region and breakdown by segment. With the weakness in the Americas, Italy and the rest of the markets grew at the expense of the Americas and the same thing happened to spirits versus soft drinks and wines.

Moving on to our performance by main brands, I'd like to kick off with Campari on page eight. Campari grew at constant effect of 1.4%. This is overall a satisfactory progression. We have the positive impact of consumption, which is mitigated by tough shipments comps. Effectively, last year, in Q1 '07, Campari had grown by 10.7%. Again it was sales and a little bit of price increase.

SKYY net sales came in at a decreased 2.3% at the constant FOREX. This is due both to the announced destocking ahead of the launch of the Infusions as well as the new packaging on SKYY Core. And as I referred to earlier, the tough comps with last year, Q1 '07 having a performance of plus 21.5% ahead of the price increase.

CampariSoda returned to growth, growing by 2.8% over the positive quarter in Italy, ahead of the start of the new campaign we just kicked off last week. Aperol continued to perform very well, growing at 11.6% with double-digit organic growth continuing to be driven by Italy and Germany.

Overall, in Q1, our Brazilian business -- both the Brazilian brands as well as Campari was soft due to some seasonal factors. Our Brazilian brands declined by 20.3%, but this means we have to put into perspective, first of all, Q1 is very small in Brazil, it accounts for about 10% of our annual sales.

And second of all, the sales in Brazil in Q1 are very much affected by the timing of the Carnival. The Carnival this year was quite early, which reduced the selling [dales]. What is positive is if we look at the Nielsen's, we continue growing double-digit across our portfolio.

This performance in Brazil also impacted Cynar, which overall decreased by 9.3%, where we've seen very good performances in Europe being mitigated by the weaker shipments in Brazil. Glen Grant had a weak performance in the small quarter, Q1 represents 15 of the volumes and had a decrease of 15.5%.

Moving on to page number nine and the wine business, we see Cinzano sparkling wines continuing to perform very well, with a growth of 9.3%. Again, a strong performance driven -- continuing to be driven by innovation and our brand building efforts in our major markets, Germany and Italy.

Cinzano vermouths also performed very well, a growth of 9.7%, posted strong results achieved in all our markets, but also again in particular Eastern Europe and Russia. Sella & Mosca, our largest wine business, grew by 2.2% and it had satisfactory results in Europe, which were mitigated by weak shipments in the U.S., which were impacted by the strong euro.

Last, but not least, Crodino had a very strong quarter, of -- of growing by 14.1%. This is a combination of continuing good organic consumption growth, which is running around 5% as well as a selling effort ahead of the key consumption season.

Having said this, now I'll pass on to Paolo Marchesini, who will take you through the consolidated results.

PAOLO MARCHESINI, CFO, DAVIDE CAMPARI-MILANO S.P.A.: Thank you, Bob. If you follow me to page 11, as you can see, we introduced a change in our P&L format. We had as of 2008, a new P&L format in order to be in line with our main competitors and facilitate our data comparisons.

Referring to the key changes, we have the line selling and distribution expenses, which now is split and according to the new format, distribution expenses, which mainly refers to [fight] costs, are included in cost line -- in cost of goods sold, which now is cost of goods sold at the point -- at the point of sales, while the selling expenses are now classified in the SG&A line together with the G&A and other operating income and expenses.

Therefore, in terms of profit indicators and cross-margin, it is not substituted with gross margin after logistic costs, which is distribution expenses and trading profit is substituted by contribution after A&P, which is contribution excluding selling expenses. EBIT before one-offs and EBIT as well are both unchanged.

Moving on to page 11, the analysis of the P&L from net sales to EBITDA, we can see an increase in cost of goods sold as a percentage of sales by 20 basis points and this is primarily driven by core organic sales mix, as we saw previously, spirits in existing business was down by 1.6%, while we had an increase in wines portfolio of 3.7% as well an increase in soft drinks portfolio of 12.8%.

On the contrary, A&P, as a percentage of sales decreased from 16.2% to 14.5%, driven by different phasing of advertising initiatives quarter-on-quarter. I would say that net of perimeter impact of the phasing effect of the A&P spent accounted for EUR2.5 million.

The increase in contribution after A&P, therefore, was 1.1% and was composed of organic growth of 3.7%, change in perimeter of minus 0.4% before we achieved the objective of setting the contribution lost from Tequila 1800, with the move of business, i.e. Cabo Wabo and X-Rated plus agency price on the profit line.

Forex accounted a negative impact of 2.2% at contribution at the A&P level. SG&A in the quarter were up by 1.1% overall and 3.2% at constant FOREX in the same line with inflation. One-offs accounted for EUR2.9 million, reflecting capital gain from real estate disposal. We sold a warehouse in Italy and net of provisions for asset write-downs and restructuring costs.

The EBITDA was up 8% at actual FOREX and 10.3% at constant FOREX at EUR45 million. The EBITDA was up 8% at actual FOREX and 10.1% at EUR50.2 million.

Now if we move on to page 13, we can see a slight increase in net financial expenses due to increasing floating rates quarter-on-quarter. On the contrary, as well as we had an increase in minority interest due to recognition of Cabo Wabo minorities. Net-net, the group's EBITDA profit was up at actual FOREX 6.8% and 8.6% at constant FOREX at EUR40.1 billion at March end.

Moving on to page 14, we have the analysis of net debt. Net debt on ordinary activities was down by EUR20 million to EUR178 million. After the payment of the 80% stake in Cabo Wabo, consideration of $80.8 million and after the sale of the warehouse in Italy for a consideration of EUR6.7 million. The total net debt was down by EUR1.9 million to EUR286 million after having provisioned EUR18.4 million for the future estimated exercise cost of the Cabo Wabo put and call options.

Moving on to net working capital, page 15, we can see that on a like-for-like basis, March-on-March, net working capital as a percentage of sales was down from 25.1% to 29. -- 24.9%.

And net working capital in March versus December was down by EUR54 million, mainly due to expected reduction in trade receivables following the Christmas seasonal peak. I hand back to Bob for the outlook.

BOB KUNZE-CONCEWITZ: Thank you. Overall, our outlook for 2008 remains unchanged, despite the tougher market environment. If we analyze our major businesses, we continue to perform well in a tough Italian market. We're taking market share from our competitors and we think we have the brands and the plans to continue doing so for the remainder of the year.

Following big changes and the completion of the portfolio changes in Q1, we expect our U.S. business to return to growth and our Brazilian business will continue to leverage the very positive consumption trends across our portfolio, which as I'd said earlier, are double-digit in value terms.

On the negative and in cognito is the U.S. dollar progression and we continue to expect negative effects on the FOREX front. At this stage, I'd be very happy to take any questions.

OPERATOR: Thank you, ladies and gentlemen, your question and answer session will now begin. (OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS). Thank you. Your first question comes from Mr. Simon Hales. Please go ahead.

SIMON HALES, ANALYST, DRESDNER KLEINWORT: Good afternoon, gentlemen. It's Simon Hales from Dresdner Kleinwort. I've got three questions, please.

Firstly, on A&P spend, obviously lower [hay] in the quarter, due to phasing. Just for the full year, Bob, are you still guiding towards around 80.5% of net sales is to be the level that you'll be looking at at the end of December?

Secondly, in terms of the SKYY destock, I wondered if you could quantify how much of an impact its had on the quarter? I'm just trying to get a feel for how much of a restock effect we're going to see coming into the numbers in the second quarter?

And thirdly, could you talk a little bit about maybe cost pressures in the business and, Paolo, how you're seeing things develop there, particularly with the oil price where it is? Have you got any changes to your gross margin outlook for this year and maybe into next?

BOB KUNZE-CONCEWITZ: In terms of - hi, Simon. In terms of A&P spend, our guidance remains 18.5% of net sales, give or take 20 basis points depending on the efficiencies, which we will obtain.

In terms of the performance of SKYY, again, I think that on the one hand, I need to underline the fact that we were running against tough comps. With a 21.5% growth last year and at the same time we spent most of the quarter [not] selling any flavors as well as destocking core.

So overall it was quite an important destocking effect. But what is important is that we continued to see positive depletion momentum with high single-digit depletion in the recent months.

PAOLO MARCHESINI: Relating to -- Simon, relating to the oil price pressure, basically, it generates impact at two levels. In cost of materials and [our freight] costs, which as well are highly sensitive to oil price. Both cost lines are included in the cost of goods sold.

As far as the cost of materials are concerned, we can confirm that we're fairly hedged for the full year via price increase, via increasing price the trade. We made a major repositioning of Campari and SKYY last year and we think we're okay this year. In the first quarter, on cost of materials, we were negatively affected by a poor sales mix more than anything else.

On distribution expenses, on the contrary, we suffered the increase of freight costs. On the other hand, we have to bear in mind that this year we will benefiting of reduction of efficiencies in production, since the closing down one of our Italian plants, the [Disha Mona] plant. I hope I've answered your questions.

SIMON HALES: That sounds perfect. Just on the cost savings that are coming through from the plant closure, Paolo, how much came through in the quarter? I think you've guided towards EUR2 million to EUR3 million for the full year. Should we assume that was pro rata through the year or is it more first half loaded?

PAOLO MARCHESINI: It's pro [rata] through the first three quarters as the last quarter of the year already benefited from the EUR3 million saving from the closing down of the plant.

SIMON HALES: Perfect. Thank you.

PAOLO MARCHESINI: (inaudible) EUR1 million per quarter, for the first three quarters.

SIMON HALES: Brilliant. Thanks so much.

OPERATOR: Thank you. Your next question comes from Mr. [Jonathan Tang]. Mr. Tang, please go ahead.

JONATHAN TANG, ANALYST: Good afternoon, Paolo and Bob. I've got two questions, please. The first one is on your Italy performance. Now obviously you guys have been quite strong in Q1. But could you just let us know what is -- what are the factors driving the good growth you're seeing in Q1?

The second question is on the SKYY performance in the U.S. You gave us a number of 7% decrease in the organic sales in the U.S. as a whole. Could you just give me a number for the SKYY brand please? Thanks.

BOB KUNZE-CONCEWITZ: Okay. Speaking of the Italian performance, overall if you look at the various categories in which we compete, they're either flat or negative. The only one growing is actually the apperatifs, which had a very good performance of Campari and Aperol.

Now we're seeing this tough environment because there's a lot of insecurity at the consumer level. We were running against elections, issues of economic growth, et cetera, which particularly impacted the entree versus the [attree].

So on the one hand, being strong in the apperatifs, we were able to benefit from the -- from our strengths overall. And second of all, we continue to invest at market leader rates, actually having launched two new campaigns in the past three to four weeks on Aperol Soda, Aperol, as well as on CampariSoda. And we will continue doing so for the remainder of the year. Moving on to your question on SKYY Vodka, the data you are looking for was negative 2.9%.

JONATHAN TANG: That 2.9% is the organic sales decline in the U.S.?

BOB KUNZE-CONCEWITZ: Yes.

JONATHAN TANG: Okay. Thanks. Thanks very much.

OPERATOR: Thank you. There are currently no questions in the queue. (OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS). Thank you. Your first question comes -- your next question comes from Melissa Earlam. Please go ahead.

MELISSA EARLAM, ANALYST, UBS: Yes. Good afternoon. Three questions please.

Firstly, unfortunately the line cut out and I missed your answer to the first question about A&P guidance for the full year. What is that? Still at 18.5%?

Second question, obviously it is a small question, Q1 for Glen Grant, but just wondering if the performance you've seen in Q1 changes your view for the brand performance for the full year?

And the third question was, back in March, when you had your last (inaudible) results, you commented on a U.S. market growth expectation for the year, 2 to 3% for volume growth and 4 to 5% for value growth. Obviously now a couple of months later on, can you just give us an update of whether you think that kind of growth target is still reasonable? Thanks.

BOB KUNZE-CONCEWITZ: Sure. Kicking off with the A&P, we reiterate our full year A&P guidance at 18.5% of net sales, give and take 20 basis points, which will depend on any efficiencies, which we can generate.

Now moving over to Glen Grant, overall Glen Grant, in terms of market share, is performing quite well. I mean, in Italy, we're gaining share and we're growing consumption quite nicely and our secondary markets Germany, France, as well as Spain.

The issue in the first quarter is that overall the whiskey category in Italy performed quite negatively. But as we said earlier on, I mean, the first quarter is only 15% of sales and we believe we have the right plans in place to make up for the lost ground in the crucial Q3 and Q4 going forward.

Now with regards to U.S. market expectations, I mean, both if we look at our internal performance data on our brands and look at Nielsen's and that kind of numbers, et cetera, it leads us to believe, and we affirm, our expectations on U.S. market performance with the overall spirits market performing around 2% to 3% volume growth and 4% to 5% value growth.

We're continuing to see the phenomenon, which we were expecting, which is on the one hand a migration of consumption from the entree to the attree, with the attree becoming a little bit more competitive. And at the same time, good performance on ultra and super premium brands and continued weakening on the value side.

MELISSA EARLAM: Thank you so much.

OPERATOR: Thank you. Your next question comes from Miss [Tottery]. Please go ahead.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Yes. Good afternoon. I have actually three questions. The first one is on the Brazilian market.

BOB KUNZE-CONCEWITZ: I can't hear you, can you speak a little bit louder?

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Yes. The first question is on -- is that okay?

BOB KUNZE-CONCEWITZ: Yes.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Okay, first question is on the Brazilian markets. Could you give us the contribution of Q1 to full year sales?

And the second question would be on foreign exchange effect. I don't know if you can share with us a guidance on impact of foreign exchange effect on the full year operating profits?

And the third question is price increases. I just wanted to know if you plan to do some price increases in Q2 or Q3. Because you said that last year most price increases are absent in Q1.

BOB KUNZE-CONCEWITZ: Okay. Let me start with the last one because I understood that question. I'm afraid we didn't hear the first two ones very well.

Now with regards to price increases, I mean, we historically and very consistently have executed our price increases in Q2. We did this last year and we will also do it this year. The price increases we're looking at this year though are basically to recover inflation and input cost pressures.

Last year, we had two significant price repositionings on two of our key franchises, SKYY and Campari, whereas this year it's going to be much more of a regular across-the-board effort to recover input cost pressure.

PAOLO MARCHESINI: On the first question, if I got it right, if -- it's what the weight in Brazil, of the first quarter on the full year.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Exactly.

PAOLO MARCHESINI: It's 10%. So the first quarter is 10%, peak season, last three months, represent more than 45% of the overall business. The remainder is Q2 and Q3.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Okay.

PAOLO MARCHESINI: So we're speaking in Brazil of very, very small quarter, 10% of the business.

BOB KUNZE-CONCEWITZ: Yes, in the case of Brazil, it is also important to go and underline the fact that if you look at consumption on all our brands, we've got good single-digit on volume terms and nice double-digit in value terms.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Okay.

OPERATOR: Thank you. Your next question comes from Mr. [Harland]. Mr. Harland, please go ahead.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Yes. Hi. I'm just curious about your new P&L format and why you're including distribution costs, the COGS level and you say that this is intended to bring you into line with other competitors.

I'm just wondering which competitors you have in mind? And which ones you think include distribution costs at the COGS level?

PAOLO MARCHESINI: I'm not going to refer to any specific competitor, but I would say that the comp, the contribution after A&P is pretty standard in the industry. It's the indicator on which brands are bought and sold.

And basically the rationale in having overrides, overall overrides, SG&A in one line or in two lines, selling expenses and G&A expenses is the fact that going forward, for competitors as well as the group, have been changing their sales -- their sales structure from agents to -- from indirect to direct sales forces that are remunerating the sales force with salaries and are more based on commissions.

So it becomes more and more difficult and meaningless to attribute selling expenses to brands and to business areas and therefore we tend to see the variable margin in terms of counter-contribution after A&P, which is the profit, which goes to -- which goes against the fixed costs, which are the overrides, including selling expenses and G&A.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Yes. Now I can see that, it's more the -- what I take to be the physical distribution costs that you've included in your cost of goods sold. I would have thought your cost of goods sold would more obviously be raw material expenses and by some definitions, converting those into finished product. But then to get the finished product to market seems a slightly strange definition of cost of goods sold.

PAOLO MARCHESINI: I'd say it's total cost of goods sold including materials, production and freight.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Right. And you think that other spirits companies have a similar definition of their cost of goods sold?

PAOLO MARCHESINI: Yes.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Okay. Thank you.

OPERATOR: Thank you. Your next question comes from Mr. [Gonzalez]. Mr. Gonzalez, please go ahead.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Yes. Good afternoon. Two questions if I may, please. On Italy, I understand there was a new law approved in October '07 after which basically alcohol is not allowed to be distributed or sold after two AM in night clubs.

I just wondered whether you could give us some indication of what impact that has had on the whiskey market and on Glen Grant in particular and whether that's going to float through for the rest of the year?

And secondly, with regards to Brazil, I know it's a very thin quarter for you, but one of the beverages companies in the sector was making comments recently that the Brazilian consumer was not that strong anymore.

As a consequence of high put inflation, I just wondered whether you could comment whether you've seen any kind of trends that could indicate this as well. In terms of spirit sales, if that is the case, that the consumer in Brazil is being affected by high inflationary pressures on the food side?

BOB KUNZE-CONCEWITZ: Yes, kicking off with your first question in Italy, the new law basically banning the sale of alcohol exercises following two AM, yes, that law went into effect in October '07 and had an impact, especially on the vodka and on the rum categories. It impacted whiskey, but not as much as the other two categories.

Overall, a large mover of whiskey remains the, from a consumption standpoint, the after-dinner drink, and from a sales standpoint it is the gifting period at Christmas, which is very important. So we think that the overall performance of Glen Grant will not be linked to the change of the law.

Moving on to Brazil, we're actually seeing quite bullish numbers on the consumption front behind our brands and overall if you look at our categories, we're seeing, again, very nice trends. So from our side, we only have positive news to report from a Brazilian consumer standpoint.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: So you're not actually seeing any kind of impact from higher food prices onto your -- any of your brands?

BOB KUNZE-CONCEWITZ: No.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: (inaudible) or any?

BOB KUNZE-CONCEWITZ: No.

UNIDENTIFIED PARTICIPANT: Okay. Thanks.

OPERATOR: Thank you. Your next question comes from Miss [Carboni]. Please go ahead.

PAOLA CARBONI, ANALYST, EUROMOBILIARE: Yes. Hi. Good afternoon.

I have a few questions. The first one, you probably said it at the beginning, could you quantify the impact of your shift in A&P from Q1 to Q2 and Q3? How much of this accounted for in the Q1?

The second question is about your new gross margin figure, your new accounting policy. Could you help us to understand what the final result will be for gross margin at the end of the year, considering the many drivers in place?

So the changing perimeter, the different mix, the savings from [So Mona] and input costs and so on and so can we expect an improvement in gross margin as per your new formulation?

And the third question is about your acquisition policy, let's say, in particular if I'm not wrong, in some -- your early [center] statement, you said that you were expecting something to happen by year-end?

I was wondering if you can try to be a little bit more precise? You're clearly not giving us any name, but to be -- what are you targeting in terms of a sector specifically and if you still confirm your financial criteria in terms of multiples to be paid and so on? Just to elaborate a little bit on this. Thank you.

BOB KUNZE-CONCEWITZ: Let me answer the first and the last question. What -- the shift in A&P from Q1 to Q2 is in the magnitude of EUR2.5 million.

PAOLA CARBONI: Yes.

BOB KUNZE-CONCEWITZ: Now with regards to acquisition policy, I would say obviously this is quite a sensitive issue. I think overall as you look at the industry, there's some important changes happening at the industry level.

PAOLA CARBONI: Yes.

BOB KUNZE-CONCEWITZ: Historically we've benefited from them in the past and we hope to do so in the future. But at the same time, we're also actively looking for interesting opportunities in emerging markets and we're looking at interesting candidates. I think it is not the venue nor the time to be more precise than that.

PAOLA CARBONI: But just at least in terms of your financial criteria, I mean you're used to seeing Campari in that?

BOB KUNZE-CONCEWITZ: We're recognized for being very disciplined overall in the market. And what guides us is an internal rule of generating a 10% pre-tax return in year one. So historically that has led us to paying multiples between 7% and then 12%, stretching to 13%, depending on the object.

Where we've paid a higher multiple, it's because we expected to generate greater synergies, either in terms of cost savings or in terms of accelerated growth. And we've done that.

PAOLA CARBONI: Okay.

PAOLO MARCHESINI: In terms of -- there was a question on the gross margin. If you look at, Paola, page 24, we provided you with reclassified P&L for Q1, Q2, Q3, Q4, page one, nine months and full year.

Full year is at page 24, you can see that gross margin at 57.5% in '07 would have been gross margin after distribution costs of 53.9%. Due to reclassification of roughly EUR34 million of distribution expenses, mainly variable freight costs into the cost of goods sold line.

The change in performance doesn't imply any change in margins going forward and impact on our perimeter, i.e. discontinuation of 1800 for one side and the brands coming in, including Cabo Wabo, so we have the impact of X-Rated and then basically [agency] brands for the (inaudible) has no meaningful impact on gross margins versus last year.

PAOLA CARBONI: Okay. Yes. Okay. Thank you.

OPERATOR: Thank you. There are no more questions in the queue. (OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS). Your next question comes from Mr. Hales. Please go ahead.

SIMON HALES: Oh hi. Just a quick one, gentlemen. Just Crodino, another strong performance in the quarter. Could you just maybe give me just a bit of a flavor as to what's happening with your soft drinks portfolio in Italy?

It seems to have been performing quite well recently. Is there anything specifically in terms of A&P investments been going in to drive that?

BOB KUNZE-CONCEWITZ: Yes. Focusing on Crodino, Crodino is reaping the benefits from very strong consistent from a creative standpoint and from an investment standpoint about the line. We have a very successful campaign with the [gorilla] and we've been investing, by far, at market leader levels.

This also strategically from a creative standpoint, we're trying to drive consumption in-house as well as increase frequency out of house. And the different advertising materials we've been putting in there has been basically tackling that issue.

What we see on Crodino is on average a consumption growth at around 5%. Now the 14% increase in the first quarter was also due to selling to wholesalers that had other peak consumption seasons. So on a full year basis, we expect to remain in the 5% territory.

SIMON HALES: Perfectly clear. Thank you.

OPERATOR: Thank you. There are no more questions in the queue at present. (OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS).

BOB KUNZE-CONCEWITZ: If there are no further questions at this stage, thank you very much and I look forward to meeting you all in the next few months as well as the next call in August. Good evening everyone.

OPERATOR: Thank you, Mr. Bob Kunze-Concewitz. Ladies and gentlemen, that concludes your conference call for today. You may now disconnect. Thank you for joining and have a great afternoon. Thank you.

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Company / organization: Name: Thomson Financial; NAICS: 551111

Publication title: Fair Disclosure Wire; Linthicum

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 14, 2008

Publisher: CQ Roll Call

Place of publication: Linthicum

Country of publication: United States, Linthicum

Publication subject: Business And Economics, Law--Corporate Law

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

ProQuest document ID: 466195084

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/466195084?accountid=4840

Copyright: 2008 CCBN, Inc. and FDCH e-Media, Inc.

Last updated: 2018-02-23

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 170 of 313

COMING AROUND AGAIN LONG-AWAITED NEW CARLY SIMON ALBUM WAS INSPIRED BY THE BEATS OF BRAZIL.

Author: Gans, Charles J

Publication info: South Florida Sun - Sentinel ; Fort Lauderdale, Fla. [Fort Lauderdale, Fla]15 May 2008: E.11.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

"I'm setting the lyrical themes to a Carnival or Brazilian or slightly samba tempo so that life is joyous even in its sadness," said [Carly Simon]. "Life is a dream even in its most painful moments, it's a dream that we can dance to."

"There were some very starkly real, scary to myself, so open songs," said Simon. "I love that album . . . and think it has some of the best work I've ever done."

"I always thought that Carly had a great voice, especially in her low register, that throaty, sexy part of her voice, for that kind of music," said [Jimmy Webb], who contributed the sensuous [Antonio Carlos Jobim]-inspired The Last Samba for the album, which he co-produced. "It took off in a different way because it became time for Carly to create a new project."

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Note: Informational box at end of text.

Carly Simon was worried about preserving her voice as she rehearsed for her first public performance of tunes from her latest CD, but she couldn't restrain herself as she got swept away singing the sexy title song, This Kind of Love.

Tall and slender, her blond hair flowing, she gently swayed her body and snapped her fingers to the beat of the samba-inspired melody, singing passionately about making love on moonlit beaches.

The CD is not only her first collection of original songs in eight years, but also finds the iconic 62-year-old singer-songwriter charting a new musical course inspired by the music of Brazil, from Antonio Carlos Jobim and Luiz Bonf to Caetano Veloso and Jorge Ben.

"I'm setting the lyrical themes to a Carnival or Brazilian or slightly samba tempo so that life is joyous even in its sadness," said Simon. "Life is a dream even in its most painful moments, it's a dream that we can dance to."

"It all kind of reminds me of Black Orpheus, which I must have seen 10 times when it came out, and was so much the impetus for my getting into Brazilian music," she said, referring to the 1959 film with the Jobim-Bonf score that retold the Greek Orpheus-Eurydice myth during Rio's Carnival.

Simon, whose 20-year marriage to writer-businessman Jim Hart ended in divorce last year, sings of falling for someone she "didn't see . . . as my type at all" in This Kind of Love. The new man in her life, a surgeon who served in the Gulf War, is unlike the musicians, writers and actors she's been involved with in the past.

"Getting to know him has been quite amazing . . . because he's more capable of love than anybody that I've known with the exception of one musician who I was engaged to a while back."

During the rehearsal at a Manhattan studio, Simon put the finishing touches on new arrangements of some past hits - including the Oscar-winning Let the River Run, Anticipation and You're So Vain - realizing she can no longer sing them as hard as she did in the good old days.

Simon considers her songs to be "problem solvers" that have helped her channel her emotions and deal with life's challenges. That was the case with her last album of original songs from 2000, The Bedroom Tapes, recorded at her Martha's Vineyard home when she was suffering from depression after battling breast cancer.

"There were some very starkly real, scary to myself, so open songs," said Simon. "I love that album . . . and think it has some of the best work I've ever done."

Simon says her last label, Columbia, considered her a "heritage" artist and insisted she do standards albums, such as the Grammy-nominated Moonlight Serenade (2005). Simon, who had sung these songs since childhood, was the first '70s pop star - before Rod Stewart or Linda Ronstadt - to record a Great American Songbook album with Torch (1981).

"I wanted to do original songs but they thought it was safer . . . and would sell a certain number of records if I did the standards or lullabies" on the 2007 album Into White, she said. "I was creatively directed in that way by very well-meaning people who didn't recognize that a woman of my age has viable thoughts and feelings that people want to hear."

She got her chance when Starbucks' Hear Music label asked her to do an album of originals. She had already been thinking about a Brazilian-influenced album when Grammy-winning songwriter Jimmy Webb, who had co-produced her 1997 CD Film Noir, unexpectedly called early last year to suggest setting her old songs to Brazilian rhythms.

"I always thought that Carly had a great voice, especially in her low register, that throaty, sexy part of her voice, for that kind of music," said Webb, who contributed the sensuous Jobim-inspired The Last Samba for the album, which he co-produced. "It took off in a different way because it became time for Carly to create a new project."

Simon had never stopped filling her notebook with ideas for lyrics. The Wim Wenders' film Wings of Desire inspired the sultry R&B song So Many People. The tango-flavored Sangre Dolce resulted from an encounter in Central Park with a nanny taking care of a wealthy family's baby while longing for her child back in Argentina.

She wrote the slow waltz Too Soon to Say Goodbye - using a title suggested by her close friend Art Buchwald - to comfort the humorist during the months before his death in January 2007.

Simon, who became a grandmother last year, was determined to make the album a family affair. She wrote Hold Out Your Heart and They Just Want You to Be There to express her strong attachment for her children - Sally, 34, and Ben, 31, both singer-songwriters. (Ben sings and plays guitar in her band.) She also performs two of their songs, Ben's Island and Sally's When We're Together.

"They just have such brilliant creativity, which I give so much credit to their genetic inputs from their father [James Taylor], who is such a well spring of amazing creativity and brilliance," Simon said.

INFORMATIONAL BOX:

If you go

Carly Simon performs 8 p.m. Friday at Gusman Center, 174 E. Flagler St., Miami. Tickets $150-$300; benefits Charlee Homes for Children and GAP: Girls Advocacy Program. Contact Ticketmaster (561-966-3309, 954-523-3309, 305-358-5885; ticketmaster.com). Romulus Hunt, a one-act family opera written by Simon, will be performed 8 p.m. Saturday at Gusman Center, also benefiting Charlee and GAP. Tickets $25-$250.

Credit: By CHARLES J. GANS The Associated Press

Illustration

Photo(s); Caption: ANTICIPATED: The singer-songwriter has released her first collection of original songs in eight years.AP photo/Jim Cooper

People: Simon, Carly Ben, Jorge

Publication title: South Florida Sun - Sentinel; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

First page: E.11

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 15, 2008

Section: Life

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 389879568

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/389879568?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by the Sun-Sentinel)

Last updated: 2017-11-10

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 171 of 313

Calendar May 15th

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Gainesville Sun ; Gainesville, Fla. [Gainesville, Fla]15 May 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

"AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 MINUTES:" Gainesville Chamber Orchestra performs music from France, Argentina, America and more, 2 p.m. Sunday, SFCC Cultural Center, 201 East Call St., Starke. Free. (395-4491)"THE CEMETERY CLUB:" A comedy about friendship and love, 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, through May 25, High Springs Community Theater. Tickets: $11 general; $8 ages 11 and younger; $9 seniors. (myhsct.com)

FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY: "Namibia - The Smile of Africa:" Artist Mary Jane Volkmann depicts life of native people of Namibia, opens today through July 12; "Butterflies and Moths in Contemporary Zuni Art:" Discover how butterflies have influenced Zuni Indian art, through 2008: "Charles R. Knight: Studies of Lost Worlds:" Seven study paintings and a self-portrait, through Jan. 31, 2009, Florida Museum of Natural History. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays, 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (846-2000)

HARN MUSEUM OF ART: Through Sunday: "Paradigms and the Unexpected: Modern and Contemporary Art from the Shey Collection;" through June 30: "Highlights from the Photography Collection: University of Florida's Photographic Legacy;" through July 20: "Vision/Revision: Contemporary Art from the Harn Collection," SW 34th Street and Hull Road. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays, 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (392-9826)

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

"LET'S GO DOWNTOWN:" Local and regional bands perform under the stars, 8-10 p.m. Fridays, through October, Downtown Community Plaza, SE 1st Street and University Avenue. Free. This week is jazz, blues and indie with Julie Black. (393-7520)

"FETE LA MUSIQUE:" Musical celebration of summer gods, nymphs and mortals performed by pianist Roberta Swedien, 6 p.m. Saturday, UF campus, Keene Center, Dauer Hall 103. Tickets: $15 students, $20-$25 general. Food and wine follow the concert. (332-6762)

JOHN STEPHENS MUSIC STUDIO RECITAL: Guitar, bass and piano students perform, 6:30 tonight, Thomas Center, 302 NE 6th Ave. (334-5064)

HONOR CHOIR RECITAL: All-county elementary student recital, 7 p.m. Friday, Trinity United Methodist Church, 4000 NW 53rd St. (376-6615)

"AROUND THE WORLD IN 80 MINUTES:" Gainesville Chamber Orchestra performs music from France, Argentina, America and more, 2 p.m. Sunday, SFCC Cultural Center, 201 East Call St., Starke. Free. (395-4491)"THE CEMETERY CLUB:" A comedy about friendship and love, 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, through May 25, High Springs Community Theater. Tickets: $11 general; $8 ages 11 and younger; $9 seniors. (myhsct.com)

"BLUE:" Dark drama laced with humor, 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, through June 7, Acrosstown Repertory Theatre. (375-1321)

"SEE HOW THEY RUN:" Comedy occurring in an English vicarage, 8 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, through June 1, Vam York Theater, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. (376-4949)

"TWELFTH NIGHT:" Carnival spirit set in Shakespearean Italy, 7:30 p.m. Wednesday-May 23, 7:30 p.m. July 10-12, and 2 p.m. July 13, Constans Theater, UF Campus. Tickets: $9-$13. (392-1653)MOTHER GOOSE TEA PARTY: High Springs Community Theater presents high tea, 1-2 p.m. Saturday, New Century Women's Club, NW 1st Street, High Springs. Tickets: $6. (386-454-3525)

NEWBERRY WATERMELON FESTIVAL: Arts and crafts, food, parade and more, 10 a.m. Saturday, Canterbury Equestrian Showplace, 23100 Newberry Road.

MASTER GARDENER PLANT SALE:8 a.m.-noon Saturday, Alachua County Extension Office, 2800 NE 39th Ave.

HIGH SPRINGS COMMUNITY GARDEN PROJECT: Garden work day, 9 a.m. Saturday, Catherine Taylor Park, 210 SE Douglas St., High Springs. (386-454-3950)

BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL: Blueberry plants, berries, food and vendors, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, corner of US 301 and County Road 325, Island Grove.

FAMILY DAY: GEOMETRIC BUILDING DESIGNS: Explore shapes and buildings, 1-4 p.m. Saturday, Harn Museum of Art. Free. (392-9826)

SHANDS WOMEN'S ADVANTAGE HEALTH FAIR: Health screenings and experts to answer questions, 8-11 a.m. today; "Ask the Experts," with a pharmacist, dietician, and diabetes health workers, 9 a.m.-noon Friday, Gainesville Health and Fitness for Women, 2441 NW 43rd St. Free. (374-4634)

CIVIC MEDIA CENTER FILM: "A Bright and Shined Moment: The Forgotten Summer of George McGovern," retraces the campaign of 1972, 8 p.m. Monday, 1021 W. University Ave. Free. (373-0010)

"THE LIFE AND TIMES OF ALLEN GINSBERG:" Screening of film by Jerry Anderson; abstract art on display, 7 p.m. Saturday, Bellamy Road, 5910 Hampton St., Melrose. Free. (475-3435)

ADVERTISING AUCTION AND EXPO: 5 p.m. Wednesday, Tapas 12 West, 12 W. University Ave. $10. (377-9337)

"INSIDE AFRICA:" Interactive exhibit of Africa's natural and cultural history and artifacts, through Sept. 7, Florida Museum of Natural History. Tickets: $5.50 general; $4 children ages 3-12. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (846-2000)

A CELEBRATION OF HUNGARY: Hungarian food and Gypsy music, 2 p.m. Sunday, May 18, Oak Hall School, Edith Coffrin Theatre, 8009 SW 14th Ave. Free. (262-6889) GOERINGS BOOK STORE: "Tinker Damn" author Pierce Kelley, 8 p.m. Wednesday, 1717 NW 1st Ave. (377-3703)

WRITERS' ROUNDTABLE: 6:30 Mondays, Books-A-Million, 6111 W. Newberry Road. (371-8420)

GAINESVILLE POETS AND WRITERS: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Books-A-Million, 2601 NW 13th St. (376-6623)

JONESVILLE WRITERS' GROUP: 6:30 p.m. second and fourth Thursdays, St. Joseph's Episcopal Church, Newberry Road, Jonesville. (fl_muse@bellsouth.net)AUDITIONS FOR "THE SECRET GARDEN A MUSICAL:" 7 p.m. Sunday and Monday, Vam York Theatre, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. (376-4949)

CALL FOR ARTISTS: For spaces at the Art Festival at Thornebrook, Oct. 4-5. Deadline: June 30. Contact Lyn White. (384-3642)

SEEKING EXHIBIT ENTRIES: The Florida Museum of Natural History and the Quilters of Alachua County Day Guild seek entries for the exhibit "Quilting Natural Florida II," planned for Spring 2010. Forms available at qacdg.org.ROLLER REBELS ROLLER DERBY BENEFIT SHOW: Bands, prizes and more, 10 p.m. Saturday, The Atlantic, 15 North Main St. $6.

A RIDE TO REMEMBER: Benefits the Alzheimer's Association. Registration begins 7 a.m. and ride begins 8 a.m. Saturday, Boulware Springs Park, 3500 SE 15th St. Fee: $40; $35 if pre-registered. (lisa@gatorcustom.com)

GAINESVILLE PET RESCUE'S BABY SHOWER: Help GPR fill their baby crib with supplies needed to care for homeless puppies and kittens, noon-4 p.m. Saturday, GPR, 5403 SW Archer Road. (692-4773 or gainesvillepetrescue.org)

INTERNATIONAL MIDWIVES DAY: Games, food and music to benefit International Midwives, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, Unity of Gainesville, 8801 NW 39th Ave. $10-$30. (373-1030)ARTISANS' GUILD GALLERY: "Colorworks," with jewelry by Katherine Swift; paintings by Harriet Huss; stained glass by Mike and Mary Ellen McIntyre; and pottery by Marcia Scheeter, through May, Millhopper Square, 4201 NW 16th Blvd. Hours: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; noon-5 p.m. Sundays. Reception, 7-9 p.m. Friday. (378-1383)

ART GALLERY AT BOOKS, INC.: "Paintings and Linocuts," by Nicola Barsaleau through May, 505 NW 13th St. Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. (374-4241)

BELLAMY ROAD ART GALLERY: 5910 Hampton St., Melrose. Gallery hours: noon-7 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays. (475-3435)

CEDAR KEY ARTS CENTER: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, 457 2nd St. (543-5801)

COFRIN GALLERY: 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. weekdays, Oak Hall School, 8009 SW 14th Ave. (332-3609)

ELEANOR BLAIR STUDIO: Florida landscape paintings by Eleanor Blair, 4-7 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, 113 S. Main St. (378-6006)

FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY: "Namibia - The Smile of Africa:" Artist Mary Jane Volkmann depicts life of native people of Namibia, opens today through July 12; "Butterflies and Moths in Contemporary Zuni Art:" Discover how butterflies have influenced Zuni Indian art, through 2008: "Charles R. Knight: Studies of Lost Worlds:" Seven study paintings and a self-portrait, through Jan. 31, 2009, Florida Museum of Natural History. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays, 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (846-2000)

FOCUS GALLERY: "The Living Room," installation by Anna Kell, Monday through August 29. Hours: 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. weekdays, UF campus, Fine Arts Building C, 400 SW 13th St. (392-0201, ext. 229)

GALLERY UNDER THE OAKS: 207 NE Cholokka Blvd., Micanopy. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays. (466-9229)

GRINTER GALLERY: "Visions of Bahia, Brazil in the Work of Jorge Amado and His Illustrators," 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays through July, UF campus, Grinter Hall, 400 SW 13th St. (392-0201, ext. 229)

HARN MUSEUM OF ART: Through Sunday: "Paradigms and the Unexpected: Modern and Contemporary Art from the Shey Collection;" through June 30: "Highlights from the Photography Collection: University of Florida's Photographic Legacy;" through July 20: "Vision/Revision: Contemporary Art from the Harn Collection," SW 34th Street and Hull Road. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays, 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (392-9826)

HAROLD'S FRAMES AND GALLERY: 101 SE 2nd Place, 1-5:30 p.m. Mondays, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11 a.m. Saturdays. (375-0260)

HAWTHORNE HISTORICAL MUSEUM: 7225 SE 221st St. (954-551-7692)

HECTOR FRAMING AND GALLERY: "Horse and Water Show," paintings by Lissa Friedman, opens May 30, 702 W. University Ave. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays. (271-4243 or hectorframingallery.com) Reception 6-9 p.m. May 30.

JIM WILSON'S STUDIO: 10 a.m.-4 p.m. weekdays, 1014 NW 4th St. (378-5528)

MATHESON MUSEUM: Framed pieces commemorating UF's football and basketball championships, 513 E. University Ave. (378-2280)

MCINTYRE STAINED GLASS STUDIO AND ART GALLERY:10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays, 2441 NW 43rd St., Suite 11A. (372-2752)

MELROSE BAY ART GALLERY: Gainesville Invitational, Members of GFAA and Melrose Bay Art Gallery, along with nationally renowned artists from across the country show their works at a reception open to the public, Melrose Bay Art Gallery, 103 SR-26 at Centre Street, Melrose. Gallery hours: 3-7 p.m. Fridays; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays; 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (475-3866 or mbagallery.smugmug.com)

RANDY BATISTA GALLERY: "The Hidden Heart of Alachua County," photography by Mac Stone, through May 30, 21 SE 2nd Place. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays. (375-1911)

SFCC PRESIDENT'S GALLERY: "Time's Up," Clock faces and posters by students of the Graphic Design and Technology Department, through June 11, SFCC, 3000 NW 83rd St. Hours: noon-4 p.m. weekdays. (395-5979)

SWEETWATER PRINT CO-OP GALLERY: 117 S. Main St. (375-0790)

THE CEDAR KEYHOLE GALLERY: Paintings by Maria Thomson, through May. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, 2nd Street, Cedar Key. (543-5801)

THOMAS CENTER GALLERIES: "Beyond the Art Room: Those Who Can Teach Can Also Do," works by area art teachers, through Sunday, Mezzanine Gallery; "Juror's Choice: 2007 Regional Award Winners," painting, sculpture and mixed media, opens Saturday through July 6; Reception 5-7 p.m. May 29, Main Gallery, 302 NE 6th Ave. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays; 1-4 p.m. weekends. (393-8532)

UNIVERSITY GALLERY: Fine Arts Building B, 400 SW 13th St. (392-0201) TRINITY'S TALENTS ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW: Works by members of Trinity United Methodist Church, runs through June 24. Hours: 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays; 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Fridays; 8 a.m.-noon Sundays. Education Building, second floor, 4000 NW 53rd Ave.

ENCORE: MEZZOTINTS BY A. DAVID CROWN: On display through production of "See How They Run," 8 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays, runs through June 1, Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. (376-4949)

THE SURVIVOR'S ART EXHIBIT: Runs through May 23, The Gallery at the Reitz Union. Hours: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Fridays-Sundays. Reception, 7-9 p.m. Friday.

ALACHUA COUNTY STUDENT ART EXHIBIT: Student works displayed through Sunday, Harn Museum of Art, SW 34th Street and Hull Road. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays; 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (392-9826)

"HAND-EYE COORDINATION:" Photography by Renee Hoffinger, runs through Friday, Advanced Massage Professionals, 4909 NW 27th Court. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Mondays-Fridays. (377-6008) THE POLICE: 7:30 p.m. Friday, Amway Arena, Orlando. Tickets: $50-$225 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

LESS THAN JAKE:8 p.m. Monday, House of Blues, Orlando. Tickets: $18.50 advance; $20 day of show, at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

ZZ TOP: 7:30 p.m. May 22, St. Augustine Ampitheatre, St. Augustine. Tickets: $37.50-$73 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

MARIO CANTONE: 8 p.m. June 7, Hard Rock Live, Orlando. Tickets: $35-$40 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

STEVIE NICKS: 7:30 p.m. June 8, Ford Amphitheatre, Tampa. Tickets: $25-$125 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

PEARL JAM: 7 p.m. June 12, St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa. Tickets: $69.75 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

ROWDY FRYNDS: LYNYRD SKYNYRD AND HANK JR.: 7 p.m. June 14, Veterans Memorial Auditorium, Jacksonville. Tickets: $41.50-$71.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

MELISSA ETHERIDGE: 8 p.m. June 19, Florida Theatre, Jacksonville. Tickets: $30-$100 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

MODEST MOUSE: 7:30 p.m. June 25, St. Augustine Ampitheatre, St. Augustine. Tickets: $26 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

TOBY KEITH: 7:30 p.m. June 28, Ford Amphitheatre, Tampa. Tickets: $30.25-$69.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

TOM PETTY AND THE HEARTBREAKERS: 7:30 p.m. July 16, St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa. Tickets: $55-$99.75 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

BROOKS AND DUNN: 7 p.m. July 27, Veterans Memorial Auditorium, Jacksonville. Tickets: $38.50-$48.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

NEIL DIAMOND: 8 p.m. Oct. 30, Veterans Memorial Auditorium, Jacksonville. Tickets: $54-$119 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

Company: Ticketmaster Corp

Publication title: Gainesville Sun; Gainesville, Fla.

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 15, 2008

Section: NEWS

Publisher: Halifax Media Group

Place of publication: Gainesville, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Gainesville, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 01634925

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 390340890

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/390340890?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 New York Times Company

Last updated: 2012-10-12

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 172 of 313

Arte a la carta

Author: TRAVIERSO, MARIA

Publication info: El Sentinel ; Fort Lauderdale, Fla. [Fort Lauderdale, Fla]17 May 2008: 2.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Auspiciada por el Miami Dade College, la Sociedad Argentina en Miami y el Consulado General de Argentina, la muestra incluye un tributo a los actores y actrices de la Edad de Oro del cine argentino, como Hugo del Carril, Tita Merello y Delia Garcés y a estrellas contemporáneas como Norma Aleandro, Darío Grandinetti y Ricardo Darín.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Correction:

Notes:

Soul y lo mejor del gospel africano en Broward

The Temptations Review es un espectáculo que cuenta con la actuación de Dennis Edwards y Olliei Woodson, cantantes originales del famoso grupo de soul, acompañados por Ron Banks y Russell Thompkins, que en conjunto son las leyendas vivas de R&B y los reyes de este tipo de música.

The Survivors of Soul llega al teatro Au-Rene del Broward Center for the Performing Arts el viernes 23 de mayo a las 8 p.m.

Las entradas cuestan $50 y las VIP $135 e incluyen un encuentro con los artistas, una bienvenida y recepción antes de la función.

Y en el mismo escenario, el domingo 25 a las 7:30 p.m., llega Gospel Goes Global, una celebración de la música gospel y su impacto mundial.

La función cuenta con artistas internacionales como CeCe Winans y Jonathan Butler, quienes ofrecerán una muestra de la música gospel del sur de África.

Las entradas cuestan $20 y $50 y se pueden obtener en www.ticketmaster.com o en el mismo centro.

El Broward Center for the Performing Arts se encuentra en 201 SW 5th Ave., en Fort Lauderdale. Para más información, llamar al 954-522-5334.

Ultima oportunidad para ver las esculturas de Botero

El 31 de mayo termina la fabulosa exposición de las esculturas de Botero, Lichtenstein y Chihuly que se realiza en el Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden de Coral Gables.

Durante la última semana los asistentes obtendrán un descuento para Bon Voyage, un crucero de cuatro días en Carnival Cruise Lines, que saldrá el 1 de septiembre yvisitará a Cayo Hueso y Cozumel.

Los miembros de Fairchild entran gratis, así como los menores de 5 años. La entrada para el público general es $20 y $15 para mayores de 65.

Los niños hasta los 17 años de edad pagan $10. Más información en www.fairchildgarden.org, o 305-667-1651.

Fairchild se encuentra en 10901 Old Cutler Road, Coral Gables.

Más de 30 películas en el Festival de Cine de Brasil

Inffinito Foundation está anunciando la realización del 12th Festival Brasileño de Cine de Miami con más de 30 películas nunca antes presentada en Estados Unidos.

La muestra es la competencia más grande su tipo que se realiza fuera de Brasil y durante los nueve días de festival habrá exhibiciones en cinemas de South Beach entre el 30 de mayo y el 7 de junio. Habrá también seminarios y paneles gratis.

Los boletos pueden comprarse en el Colony Theatre y Wolfsonian Museum, así como en www.ticketmaster.com. Más información sobre la programación y los precios en mbcinema.com.

Retrospectiva del cine argentino en Miami

Una retrospectiva de películas argentinas, compuesta por 12 filmes de diferentes períodos históricos y generaciones de cineastas, se proyectarán durante dos fines de semana: 3 y 4 de mayo, y 14 y 15 de junio, en el Teatro Tower, 1508 S.W. Ocho Calle, en la Pequeña Habana.

Auspiciada por el Miami Dade College, la Sociedad Argentina en Miami y el Consulado General de Argentina, la muestra incluye un tributo a los actores y actrices de la Edad de Oro del cine argentino, como Hugo del Carril, Tita Merello y Delia Garcés y a estrellas contemporáneas como Norma Aleandro, Darío Grandinetti y Ricardo Darín.

Pedro Caccamo, moderador del evento y presentador del programa radial La Revista Argentina, tendrá a su cargo la introducción de cada proyección.

La entrada es gratis, lo mismo que el parqueo

Información en el Teatro Tower, 305-643-8706, y en la Sociedad Argentina, 305-448-09.

Envíe sus notas culturales a mtravierso@elsentinel.com

Credit: MARIA TRAVIERSO

Illustration

 

Publication title: El Sentinel; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

First page: 2

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 17, 2008

Section: El Sentinel

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Publication subject: Hispanic, General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: Spanish

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 431645297

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/431645297?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright (c) 2008 Tribune Publishing Company. All Rights Reserved.

Last updated: 2010-06-29

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 173 of 313

Samba on Two Wheels Stenberg Grabs Win in Rio

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Al Bawaba ; London [London]21 May 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Samba on Two Wheels Stenberg Grabs Win in RioRed Bull X-Fighters Perform to 30,000 Fans in Brazil's Carnival City Jeremy Stenberg (USA) soared to victory with a spectacular performance at the second event of Red Bull X-Fighters 2008. Mat Rebeaud from Switzerland had to settle for second place after a hard-fought final round, with Australian Robbie Maddison claiming third in the former capital city's legendary Sambadrome. Andre Villa (NOR) remained unhurt after crashing out.A total of nine kickers spread out along a 96-metre course proved a real challenge for the world's FMX elite, a fact confirmed by winner Stenberg shortly after an emotional victory ceremony: "Unbelievably difficult. Some of the riders here were really afraid of the course. This victory means a great deal to me. I have never seen such a challenging course.

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Samba on Two Wheels Stenberg Grabs Win in RioRed Bull X-Fighters Perform to 30,000 Fans in Brazil's Carnival City Jeremy Stenberg (USA) soared to victory with a spectacular performance at the second event of Red Bull X-Fighters 2008. Mat Rebeaud from Switzerland had to settle for second place after a hard-fought final round, with Australian Robbie Maddison claiming third in the former capital city's legendary Sambadrome. Andre Villa (NOR) remained unhurt after crashing out.A total of nine kickers spread out along a 96-metre course proved a real challenge for the world's FMX elite, a fact confirmed by winner Stenberg shortly after an emotional victory ceremony: "Unbelievably difficult. Some of the riders here were really afraid of the course. This victory means a great deal to me. I have never seen such a challenging course. One trick went completely wrong and I thought that it was all over, but Rebeaud made a mistake too." Despite his disappointment, Swiss high flyer Rebeaud was stoic after the final: "That's sport for you. I had a big mistake in the final and that probably cost me victory. But it could have been a lot worse. I'm glad I didn't crash."A heavy fall by Andre Villa (NOR) at the quarter final stage brought the vibrant crowd to a hushed silence, but the Norwegian walked away unhurt. "I go to the gym five times a week and the muscles paid off today. I landed on my stomach, but I'll be back on the bike," commented Villa shortly after his fall.Backflips, heelcrackers and superman seatgrabs were among the incredible tricks on show to a capacity crowd in the city's legendary Sambadrome, where two large dirt jumps and a 'six pack' (three jumps in a row) catapulted the riders to dizzying heights.The 30,000 FMX fans were on their feet as four local riders and eight members of the international FMX elite fought it out for victory. "I can't imagine it was even louder here during the Carnival in February," beamed winner Stenberg after stealing the show.After two races Mat Rebeaud (185 points) heads the overall riders' classification, with a narrow lead of just 30 points over Jeremy Stenberg (155 points).After Rio de Janeiro the Red Bull X-Fighters move stateside to Texas, USA. On July 14 the rodeo arena in Fort Worth will host the third of the tour's five stops before the most breathtaking freestyle motocross series in the world returns to Europe with a stop in Wuppertal (GER) before the traditional grand finale in Madrid (ESP).Final Results of Red Bull X-Fighters Rio de Janeiro: 1. Jeremy Stenberg (USA/Yamaha)2. Mat Rebeaud (CH/KTM)3. Robbie Maddison (AUS/Honda)4. Dany Torres (ESP/KTM)5. Andre Villa (NOR/Suzuki)6. Eigo Sato (JPA/Yamaha)7. Ronnie Faisst (USA/Honda)8. Brice Izzo (FRA/Yamaha)9. Gilmar Flores (BRA/Yamaha)10. Gian Bergamini (BRA/Yamaha) 2008 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)

Credit: By Al-Bawaba Reporters

Publication title: Al Bawaba; London

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 21, 2008

Publisher: Albawaba (London) Ltd.

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--Jordan

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 194854153

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/194854153?accountid=4840

Copyright: ((C) 2008 All rights reserved. Albawaba.com)

Last updated: 2017-11-07

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 174 of 313

Chariot off to a flyer

Author: Li, Martin

Publication info: Investors Chronicle ; London (May 21, 2008): n/a.

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Abstract:

Chariot Oil & Gas, a South Atlantic-focused explorer with significant Namibian interests, has raised GBP45m and floated on Aim, capitalised at around GBP183m.

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ANALYSIS: New listing Chariot Oil & Gas highlights the potential of Namibia for oil exploration - and a geological link with recent big discoveries in Brazil

Chariot Oil & Gas, a South Atlantic-focused explorer with significant Namibian interests, has raised GBP45m and floated on Aim, capitalised at around GBP183m. Namibia is a little-explored, frontier region for hydrocarbons but Chariot's substantial targets hold a prospective resource of 3.9bn barrels of oil, and the group is seeking farm-out partners to mitigate risk and expedite exploration.

Chariot couldn't have floated against a more favourable backdrop. Four days before its initial public offering (IPO), fellow Aim-traded oil and gas explorer Tower Resources confirmed the presence off the northern coast of Namibia of "giant structures which could contain 10bn barrels". The news sent the shares over 250 per cent higher in a day. The unrisked estimate follows the interpretation of two-dimensional (2-D) seismic that indicates a significant probability that these giant structures are oil bearing, and large volumes of associated gas would also be present.

These Namibian developments come just a month after a consortium including BG reported a huge oil strike in the Carioca field offshore Brazil http://www.investorschronicle.co.uk/Companies/ByEvent/Risk/Analysis/article/20080416/901f531e-0b95-11dd-96f5-0015171400a a/BG-urges-caution-over-Brazil-carnival.jsp Carioca field offshore Brazil, which, it was speculated, could hold 33bn barrels of oil. While parties close to the discovery have distanced themselves from this estimate, what isn't disputed is that Carioca could represent a very substantial oil find.

High Resolution Technology & Petroleum (HRT), Chariot's independent technical consultant, provides the link across the Atlantic. The application of its specialist deep water technologies have led to large discoveries offshore Brazil, including Carioca, and these technologies are now being applied to Chariot's 10 Namibian blocks.

HRT suggests a geological similarity between the giant southern Brazilian hydrocarbon provinces, such as the Santos Basin that hosts BG's field, and the western Namibian basins in which Tower and Chariot are prospecting. Indeed, the Brazilian and Namibian basins could have originally formed the same land mass - Gondwanaland - prior to the rifting and continental drift of the African and South American tectonic plates. HRT estimates total South Atlantic discoveries could exceed 60bn barrels.

Tower (7.2p) and Chariot (149p) are highly speculative in advance of firmer project developments, although the upside potential is considerable. BG remains a buy at 1,363p.

Subject: Petroleum industry; Oil exploration; Flotation

Classification: 8510: Petroleum industry; 3400: Investment analysis & personal finance; 9000: Short article

Publication title: Investors Chronicle; London

Pages: n/a

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 21, 2008

Publisher: The Financial Times Limited

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: Business And Economics--Banking And Finance

ISSN: 02613115

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 236216303

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/236216303?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 INVESTORS CHRONICLE. All rights reserved.)

Last updated: 2010-06-11

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 175 of 313

Scene calendar

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Gainesville Sun ; Gainesville, Fla. [Gainesville, Fla]22 May 2008.

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Abstract:

SEEKING EXHIBIT ENTRIES: The Florida Museum of Natural History and the Quilters of Alachua County Day Guild seek entries for the exhibit "Quilting Natural Florida II," planned for Spring 2010. Forms available at qacdg.org.ARTISANS' GUILD GALLERY: "Colorworks," with jewelry by Katherine Swift; paintings by Harriet Huss; stained glass by Mike and Mary Ellen McIntyre; and pottery by Marcia Scheeter, through May, Millhopper Square, 4201 NW 16th Blvd. Hours: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; noon-5 p.m. Sundays. Reception, 7-9 p.m. Friday. (378-1383)

FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY: "Namibia - The Smile of Africa:" Artist Mary Jane Volkmann depicts life of native people of Namibia, opens today through July 12; "Butterflies and Moths in Contemporary Zuni Art:" Discover how butterflies have influenced Zuni Indian art, through 2008: "Charles R. Knight: Studies of Lost Worlds:" Seven study paintings and a self-portrait, through Jan. 31, 2009, Florida Museum of Natural History. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays, 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (846-2000)

HARN MUSEUM OF ART: Through Sunday: "Paradigms and the Unexpected: Modern and Contemporary Art from the Shey Collection;" through June 30: "Highlights from the Photography Collection: University of Florida's Photographic Legacy;" through July 20: "Vision/Revision: Contemporary Art from the Harn Collection," SW 34th Street and Hull Road. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays, 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (392-9826)

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Full text:  

"LET'S GO DOWNTOWN:" Local and regional bands perform under the stars, 8-10 p.m. Fridays, through October, Downtown Community Plaza, SE 1st Street and University Avenue. Free. This week is acoustic and classic rock with The String Kings. (393-7520)

FLORIDA FOLK FESTIVAL: Music, arts and crafts, folk art demonstrations, storytelling, Friday-Sunday, Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, US 41, White Springs. Gates open at 8 a.m. everyday. Tickets: Adults $25 one day, $50 for the weekend; children ages 6-16 $5 for the weekend; children ages 6 and under are free.

WESTSIDE EVENING WITH THE ORCHESTRA: Gainesville Chamber Orchestra's final performance for the season, 7 p.m. today, SFCC campus, E-Auditorium, 3000 NW 83rd St. Free.

"SPIRIT OF AMERICA:" Patriotic concert presented by the Gainesville Civic Chorus with orchestra and soloists, 7:30 p.m. Saturday, First Presbyterian Church, 300 SW 2nd Ave. Free. (378-1527) "THE CEMETERY CLUB:" A comedy about friendship and love, 8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday, High Springs Community Theater. Tickets: $11 general; $8 ages 11 and younger; $9 seniors. (myhsct.com)

"BLUE:" Dark drama laced with humor, 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, through June 7, Acrosstown Repertory Theatre. (375-1321)

"SEE HOW THEY RUN:" Comedy occurring in an English vicarage, 8 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays, through June 1, Vam York Theater, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. (376-4949)

"TWELFTH NIGHT:" Carnival spirit set in Shakespearean Italy, 7:30 p.m. today, 7:30 p.m. July 10-12, and 2 p.m. July 13, Constans Theater, UF Campus. Tickets: $9-$13. (392-1653)THE WORLD'S MOST POWERFUL HYPNOTIST: Comedy show with hypnotist Alid Perez, 7:30 p.m. Friday, Cofrin Arts Center, Oak Hall School, 8009 SW 14th Ave. Tickets: $20 at door; advance tickets at www.getadvancepower.com.

YULEE RAILROAD DAYS: Celebration of the Florida Railroad, 9:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Wednesday-May 31; and 1-5 p.m. June 1, Matheson Museum, 513 E. University Ave. Free. (378-2280)

CIVIC MEDIA CENTER FILMS: "Confederate States of America," a faux documentary looks at an America where the South won the Civil War, 8 p.m. Monday; "Fugazi Instrument," concert footage, rehearsals and rare moments from the band, 9 p.m. Wednesday, 1021 W. University Ave. Free. (373-0010)

ROLLER REBELS NEW SKATER MEET AND GREET: Interested skaters and volunteer staff meet and greet, 6-8 p.m. Monday, Alachua County Fairgrounds, 2900 NE 39th Ave. Free. (334-5064)

FRIDAY FEST AND CRUISE-IN: Music and cruise-in, 5 p.m. Friday, Downtown Starke, 100 East Call St. Free.

NATIONAL STUDENT STEEL BRIDGE COMPETITION: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Friday; 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday, UF campus, O'Connell Center. Free. (392-5500)

LOVE AND REMEMBRANCE MEMORIAL: Remember the lives of loved ones, 6:30 p.m. today, Haven Hospice, ET York Care Center, 4200 NW 9th Blvd. (692-5100)

"PATHWAYS TO HEALING: FROM TRAUMA TO RECOVERY:" Keynote speakers Sharon D'Eusanio and Jennifer Long for the Annual Conference for the Sexual Battery Committee of the Gainesville Commission on the Status of Women, 8:15 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Trinity United Methodist Church, 4000 NW 53rd Ave. (376-6615)

"ROOTS AND WINGS:" One-day writing workshop with Marisa Finotti and Diana Tonnessen, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, Thomas Center, 302 NE 6th Ave. $85. (334-5064)

CHILDREN'S STUDIO CLASS: Learn about color, line, shape and texture, 10:30 a.m.-noon Saturday, Harn Museum. $115 non-members; $100 members. (392-9826)

"INSIDE AFRICA:" Interactive exhibit of Africa's natural and cultural history and artifacts, through Sept. 7, Florida Museum of Natural History. Tickets: $5.50 general; $4 children ages 3-12. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (846-2000)

KIKA SILVA PLA PLANETARIUM: Southern Nights, 7 p.m. Fridays; Children's matinee, 3 p.m. Saturdays; Black Holes, 5 p.m. Saturdays; Night Spirits, 7 p.m. Saturdays. Tickets: $4 general; $3 children and seniors at the door, SFCC, 3000 NW 83rd St. (395-5381 or sfcc.edu/planetarium)

COSMIC CONCERTS: "Sounds of the Underground," cosmic video featuring techno, dance, club and rave styles on the dome of the Kika Silva Pla Planetarium, 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 3000 NW 83rd St. Tickets: $10. (sfcc.edu/planetarium)

MORNINGSIDE NATURE CENTER: Living History Days: A slice of life from 1870, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturdays. Animals fed 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily; Barnyard Buddies: Youngsters meet animals, 3 p.m. Wednesdays, Sundays; Feed-A-Frog Fridays: 2 p.m. first Fridays, Morningside Nature Center, 3540 E. University Ave. Free. (334-3326)BORDERS BOOK STORE: Book signing with author Dudley Clendinen of "A Place Called Canterbury: Tales of the New Old Age in America," 7 p.m. today, 6837 Newberry Rd. (331-2722)

MILLHOPPER BRANCH LIBRARY: Audubon Talk: Tom Frazer speaks of the quality of springs in Florida, 2-3 p.m. Saturday, 3145 NW 43rd St. (334-1272)

WRITERS' ROUNDTABLE: 6:30 Mondays, Books-A-Million, 6111 W. Newberry Road. (371-8420)

GAINESVILLE POETS AND WRITERS: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Books-A-Million, 2601 NW 13th St. (376-6623)

JONESVILLE WRITERS' GROUP: 6:30 p.m. second and fourth Thursdays, St. Joseph's Episcopal Church, Newberry Road, Jonesville. (fl_muse@bellsouth.net) CALL FOR ARTISTS: For spaces at the Art Festival at Thornebrook, Oct. 4-5. Deadline: June 30. Contact Lyn White. (384-3642)

SEEKING EXHIBIT ENTRIES: The Florida Museum of Natural History and the Quilters of Alachua County Day Guild seek entries for the exhibit "Quilting Natural Florida II," planned for Spring 2010. Forms available at qacdg.org.ARTISANS' GUILD GALLERY: "Colorworks," with jewelry by Katherine Swift; paintings by Harriet Huss; stained glass by Mike and Mary Ellen McIntyre; and pottery by Marcia Scheeter, through May, Millhopper Square, 4201 NW 16th Blvd. Hours: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; noon-5 p.m. Sundays. Reception, 7-9 p.m. Friday. (378-1383)

ART GALLERY AT BOOKS, INC.: "Paintings and Linocuts," by Nicola Barsaleau through May, 505 NW 13th St. Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. (374-4241)

BELLAMY ROAD ART GALLERY: 5910 Hampton St., Melrose. Gallery hours: noon-7 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays. (475-3435)

CEDAR KEY ARTS CENTER: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, 457 2nd St. (543-5801)

COFRIN GALLERY: 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. weekdays, Oak Hall School, 8009 SW 14th Ave. (332-3609)

ELEANOR BLAIR STUDIO: Florida landscape paintings by Eleanor Blair, 4-7 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, 113 S. Main St. (378-6006)

FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY: "Namibia - The Smile of Africa:" Artist Mary Jane Volkmann depicts life of native people of Namibia, opens today through July 12; "Butterflies and Moths in Contemporary Zuni Art:" Discover how butterflies have influenced Zuni Indian art, through 2008: "Charles R. Knight: Studies of Lost Worlds:" Seven study paintings and a self-portrait, through Jan. 31, 2009, Florida Museum of Natural History. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays, 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (846-2000)

FOCUS GALLERY: "The Living Room," installation by Anna Kell, Monday through August 29. Hours: 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. weekdays, UF campus, Fine Arts Building C, 400 SW 13th St. (392-0201, ext. 229)

GALLERY UNDER THE OAKS: 207 NE Cholokka Blvd., Micanopy. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays. (466-9229)

GRINTER GALLERY: "Visions of Bahia, Brazil in the Work of Jorge Amado and His Illustrators," 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays through July, UF campus, Grinter Hall, 400 SW 13th St. (392-0201, ext. 229)

HARN MUSEUM OF ART: Through Sunday: "Paradigms and the Unexpected: Modern and Contemporary Art from the Shey Collection;" through June 30: "Highlights from the Photography Collection: University of Florida's Photographic Legacy;" through July 20: "Vision/Revision: Contemporary Art from the Harn Collection," SW 34th Street and Hull Road. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays, 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (392-9826)

HAROLD'S FRAMES AND GALLERY: 101 SE 2nd Place, 1-5:30 p.m. Mondays, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11 a.m. Saturdays. (375-0260)

HAWTHORNE HISTORICAL MUSEUM: 7225 SE 221st St. (954-551-7692)

HECTOR FRAMING AND GALLERY: "Horse and Water Show," paintings by Lissa Friedman, opens May 30, 702 W. University Ave. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays. (271-4243 or hectorframingallery.com) Reception 6-9 p.m. May 30.

MATHESON MUSEUM: Framed pieces commemorating UF's football and basketball championships, 513 E. University Ave. (378-2280)

MCINTYRE STAINED GLASS STUDIO AND ART GALLERY: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays, 2441 NW 43rd St., Suite 11A. (372-2752)

MELROSE BAY ART GALLERY: Gainesville Invitational, Members of GFAA and Melrose Bay Art Gallery, along with nationally renowned artists from across the country show their works at a reception open to the public, Melrose Bay Art Gallery, 103 SR-26 at Centre Street, Melrose. Gallery hours: 3-7 p.m. Fridays; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays; 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (475-3866 or mbagallery.smugmug.com)

RANDY BATISTA GALLERY: "The Hidden Heart of Alachua County," photography by Mac Stone, through May 30, 21 SE 2nd Place. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays. (375-1911)

SFCC PRESIDENT'S GALLERY: "Time's Up," Clock faces and posters by students of the Graphic Design and Technology Department, through June 11, SFCC, 3000 NW 83rd St. Hours: noon-4 p.m. weekdays. (395-5979)

SWEETWATER PRINT CO-OP GALLERY: 117 S. Main St. (375-0790)

THE CEDAR KEYHOLE GALLERY: Paintings by Maria Thomson, through May. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, 2nd Street, Cedar Key. (543-5801)

THOMAS CENTER GALLERIES: "Beyond the Art Room: Those Who Can Teach Can Also Do," works by area art teachers, through Sunday, Mezzanine Gallery; "Juror's Choice: 2007 Regional Award Winners," painting, sculpture and mixed media, through July 6; Reception 5-7 p.m. May 29, Mezzanine Gallery, 302 NE 6th Ave. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays; 1-4 p.m. weekends. (393-8532)

UNIVERSITY GALLERY: Fine Arts Building B, 400 SW 13th St. (392-0201)

TRINITY'S TALENTS ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW: Works by members of Trinity United Methodist Church, runs through June 24. Hours: 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays; 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Fridays; 8 a.m.-noon Sundays. Education Building, second floor, 4000 NW 53rd Ave.

ENCORE: MEZZOTINTS BY A. DAVID CROWN: On display through production of "See How They Run," 8 p.m. Wednesdays-Saturdays; 2 p.m. Sundays, runs through June 1, Gainesville Community Playhouse, 4039 NW 16th Blvd. (376-4949)

THE SURVIVOR'S ART EXHIBIT: Runs through Friday, The Gallery at the Reitz Union. Hours: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Fridays-Sundays. ZZ TOP: 7:30 p.m. today, St. Augustine Ampitheatre, St. Augustine. Tickets: $37.50-$73 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

MARIO CANTONE: 8 p.m. June 7, Hard Rock Live, Orlando. Tickets: $35-$40 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

STEVIE NICKS: 7:30 p.m. June 8, Ford Amphitheatre, Tampa. Tickets: $25-$125 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

PEARL JAM: 7 p.m. June 12, St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa. Tickets: $69.75 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

ROWDY FRYNDS: LYNYRD SKYNYRD AND HANK JR.: 7 p.m. June 14, Veterans Memorial Auditorium, Jacksonville. Tickets: $41.50-$71.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

MELISSA ETHERIDGE: 8 p.m. June 19, Florida Theatre, Jacksonville. Tickets: $30-$100 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

MODEST MOUSE: 7:30 p.m. June 25, St. Augustine Ampitheatre, St. Augustine. Tickets: $26 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

TOBY KEITH: 7:30 p.m. June 28, Ford Amphitheatre, Tampa. Tickets: $30.25-$69.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

TOM PETTY AND THE HEARTBREAKERS: 7:30 p.m. July 16, St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa. Tickets: $55-$99.75 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

BROOKS AND DUNN: 7 p.m. July 27, Veterans Memorial Auditorium, Jacksonville. Tickets: $38.50-$48.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

NEIL DIAMOND: 8 p.m. Oct. 30, Veterans Memorial Auditorium, Jacksonville. Tickets: $54-$119 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

MARILYN MANSON: 8 p.m. January 19, Hard Rock Live, Orlando. Tickets: $40-65 at Ticketmaster. (904-3553-3309) "BHARATANATYAM:" Professional dance group of women ages 17-30 perform a dance form of India, 6:30 p.m. dinner, 7 p.m. performance, May 30, Mebane Middle School Auditorium, 16401 NW 140th St., Alachua. Tickets: $15 adults; $10 students. (215-8025)

CLAIRE LYNCH BAND: Bluegrass Claire Lynch and the Front Porch String Band perform, 6 p.m. June 1, Grace United Methodist Church, 9325 Newberry Road. Tickets: $20 adults; $10 children ages 5-12; free for children ages 4 and under. Tickets can be purchased at the Grace United office or at the door. (332-8770)

"COLLEGE: THE MUSICAL:" A musical that takes an honest look at modern campus life, opens June 6; previews 8 p.m. June 4-5; 8 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays; 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturdays; and 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Sundays. Runs through June 29. Hippodrome State Theatre, 25 SE 2nd Place. (375-4477)

YULEE DAY IN ARCHER: Parade, Civil War re-enactors, auction, all day June 7, The Depot, Archer. Free. (495-1044)

Company: Ticketmaster Corp

Publication title: Gainesville Sun; Gainesville, Fla.

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 22, 2008

Section: NEWS

Publisher: Halifax Media Group

Place of publication: Gainesville, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Gainesville, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 01634925

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 390337332

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/390337332?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 New York Times Company

Last updated: 2012-10-12

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 176 of 313

May 25, 2008 (Page 72 of 292)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]25 May 2008: 72.

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Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 49

Issue: 30

First page: 72

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 25, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249029083

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249029083?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC May 25, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 177 of 313

May 26, 2008 (Page 29 of 74)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]26 May 2008: 29.

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Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 49

Issue: 31

First page: 29

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 26, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249218819

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249218819?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC May 26, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 178 of 313

So Paulo thinks millions attended gay-pride parade

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Orlando Sentinel ; Orlando, Fla. [Orlando, Fla]26 May 2008: A.16.

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Abstract: None available.

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Full text:  

SO PAULO, Brazil -- Millions of people waving rainbow flags and wearing lavish Carnival costumes paraded in South America's biggest city Sunday to celebrate gay pride and demand an end to homophobia and sexism. To the beat of loud music blasted off more than 20 sound trucks, gay men, lesbians and cross-dressers danced and cheered through the skyscraper-lined Avenida Paulista, So Paulo's financial heart. Organizers expected more than 3 million people at the 12th annual So Paulo Gay Pride Parade, traditionally one of the biggest in the world. Local authorities did not immediately give an estimate on the number of attendees but said millions were likely present.

Publication title: Orlando Sentinel; Orlando, Fla.

First page: A.16

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 26, 2008

column: The World In Brief

Section: A SECTION

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Orlando, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Orlando, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 284176178

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Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by The Orlando Sentinel)

Last updated: 2017-11-05

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 179 of 313

GAY PRIDE PARADE DRAWS MILLIONS ANNUAL SAO PAULO EVENT IS ONE OF THE WORLD'S BIGGEST.

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: South Florida Sun - Sentinel ; Fort Lauderdale, Fla. [Fort Lauderdale, Fla]26 May 2008: A.29.

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Abstract:

According to Sao Paulo's department of tourism, the parade was expected to attract nearly 330,000 tourists to the city, 20 percent more than last year's event. At least 5 percent of those tourists were expected from abroad.

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Millions of people waving rainbow flags and wearing lavish Carnival costumes danced and cheered their way through South America's largest city on Sunday to celebrate gay pride and demand an end to homophobia and sexism.

Gay men, lesbians and cross-dressers paraded down the skyscraper-lined Avenida Paulista, Sao Paulo's financial heart, to the beat of loud music blasted off more than 20 sound trucks.

Organizers expected more than 3 million people at the 12th annual Sao Paulo Gay Pride Parade, which traditionally is one of the biggest in the world. Local authorities did not immediately give an estimate on the number of people attending the event but said millions were likely present.

According to Sao Paulo's department of tourism, the parade was expected to attract nearly 330,000 tourists to the city, 20 percent more than last year's event. At least 5 percent of those tourists were expected from abroad.

The tourists are expected to bring about $115 million to the city, in addition to helping create 13,500 direct and indirect jobs. { SB

Credit: The Associated Press

Publication title: South Florida Sun - Sentinel; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

First page: A.29

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 26, 2008

Dateline: SAO PAULO, Brazil

Section: News

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 389901162

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Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by the Sun-Sentinel)

Last updated: 2017-11-10

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 180 of 313

Shoe Carnival Reports First Quarter 2008 Results

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Business Wire ; New York [New York]29 May 2008.

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Abstract:

Speaking on the results for the quarter, Mark Lemond, chief executive officer and president said, We anticipated a challenging economic environment going into 2008 and worked diligently to face this challenge through tight inventory and expense control.

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Full text:

Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Mark L. Lemond, 812-867-4037

President and Chief Executive Officer

or

W. Kerry Jackson, 812-867-4037

Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer

and Treasurer

Shoe Carnival, Inc. (Nasdaq: SCVL) a leading retailer of value-priced footwear and accessories, today announced sales and earnings for the first quarter ended May 3, 2008.

Net earnings for the thirteen-week first quarter were $4.8 million, or $0.38 per diluted share, compared to net earnings of $7.3 million, or $0.53 per diluted share, for the thirteen-week prior year first quarter ended May 5, 2007.

Sales for the first quarter were $162.1 million compared to sales of $165.7 million for the prior year first quarter. Comparable store sales for the thirteen-week period ended May 3, 2008 decreased 4.9 percent compared with the thirteen-week period ended May 5, 2007.

The gross profit margin for the first quarter was 29.0 percent compared to 30.0 percent for the first quarter of the prior year. As a percentage of sales, the merchandise margin decreased 0.8 percent and buying, distribution and occupancy costs increased 0.2 percent. The decrease in merchandise margin as a percentage of sales was primarily related to the pressure on margins resulting from the current competitive retail environment.

Selling, general and administrative expenses for the first quarter were $39.3 million, or 24.2 percent of sales, compared to $39.3 million, or 23.7 percent of sales, for the first quarter of 2007. The increase in selling, general and administrative expenses as a percentage of sales was attributable to the decrease in net sales.

Speaking on the results for the quarter, Mark Lemond, chief executive officer and president said, "We anticipated a challenging economic environment going into 2008 and worked diligently to face this challenge through tight inventory and expense control. Our merchandising group kept inventories flat on a per store basis when compared to the end of the first quarter of 2007. Seasonal product sales were disappointing, particularly in the sandals and opened up dress shoe categories. Our management team did a commendable job controlling selling, general and administrative expenses during the quarter. These expenses were flat on a dollar basis year over year, despite ending the first quarter with fifteen more stores than the prior year."

"We anticipate the challenging economic environment will continue to impact our targeted moderate income consumer in 2008. As a result, we will continue to plan and execute our business in a conservative manner and our merchandising group is more focused than ever on reducing inventory levels in weaker performing footwear categories."

Store Growth

Currently, the Company expects to open 22 to 25 new stores in fiscal 2008 and close nine stores. Store openings and closings by quarter and for the fiscal year are currently planned as follows:

The two stores opened during the first quarter included locations in:

Conference Call

Today, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern time, the Company will host a conference call to discuss the first quarter results. The public can listen to the live webcast of the call by visiting Shoe Carnival's Investor Relations page at www.shoecarnival.com. While the question-and-answer session will be available to all listeners, questions from the audience will be limited to institutional analysts and investors. A replay of the webcast will be available on our website beginning approximately two hours after the conclusion of the conference call and will be archived for one year.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking statements, within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause our actual results, performance, achievements or industry results to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to: general economic conditions in the areas of the United States in which our stores are located; changes in the overall retail environment and more specifically in the apparel and footwear retail sectors; our ability to generate increased sales at our stores; the potential impact of national and international security concerns on the retail environment; changes in our relationships with key suppliers; the impact of competition and pricing; changes in weather patterns, consumer buying trends and our ability to identify and respond to emerging fashion trends; the impact of disruptions in our distribution or information technology operations; the effectiveness of our inventory management; the impact of hurricanes or other natural disasters on our stores, as well as on consumer confidence and purchasing in general; risks associated with the seasonality of the retail industry; our ability to successfully execute our growth strategy, including the availability of desirable store locations at acceptable lease terms, our ability to open new stores in a timely and profitable manner and the availability of sufficient funds to implement our growth plans; higher than anticipated costs associated with the closing of underperforming stores; the inability of manufacturers to deliver products in a timely manner; changes in the political and economic environments in the People's Republic of China, Brazil, Spain and East Asia, the primary manufacturers of footwear; and the continued favorable trade relations between the United States and China and the other countries which are the major manufacturers of footwear.

In addition, these forward-looking statements necessarily depend upon assumptions, estimates and dates that may be incorrect or imprecise and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors. Accordingly, any forward-looking statements included in this press release do not purport to be predictions of future events or circumstances and may not be realized. Forward-looking statements can be identified by, among other things, the use of forward-looking terms such as "believes," "expects," "may," "will," "should," "seeks," "pro forma," "anticipates," "intends" or the negative of any of these terms, or comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategy or intentions. Given these uncertainties, we caution investors not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. We disclaim any obligation to update any of these factors or to publicly announce any revisions to the forward-looking statements contained in this press release to reflect future events or developments.

Shoe Carnival is a chain of 294 footwear stores located in the Midwest, South and Southeast. Combining value pricing with an entertaining store format, Shoe Carnival is a leading retailer of name brand and private label footwear for the entire family. Headquartered in Evansville, IN, Shoe Carnival trades on The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC under the symbol SCVL. Shoe Carnival's press releases and annual report are available on the Company's website at www.shoecarnival.com.

Financial Tables Follow

TABLE

New Stores__ Stores Closings

1st Quarter 2008

2

0

2nd Quarter 2008

11

2

3rd Quarter 2008

11

0

4th Quarter 2008

1

7

Fiscal 2008

25

9

TABLE

City____________ Market/Total Stores in Market

Washington, MO__ St. Louis/10

Collierville, TN Memphis/5

TABLE

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME

(In thousands, except per share)

Thirteen Weeks Ended May 3, 2008__ Thirteen Weeks Ended May 5, 2007

Net sales

$162,119

$165,653

Cost of sales (including buying, distribution and occupancy costs)

115,039

115,862

Gross profit

47,080

49,791

Selling, general and administrative expenses

39,323

39,325

Operating income

7,757

10,466

Interest income

(37

)

(334

)

Interest expense

33

32

Income before income taxes

7,761

10,768

Income tax expense

2,977

3,441

Net income

$4,784

$7,327

Net income per share:

Basic

$.39

$.54

Diluted

$.38

$.53

Average shares outstanding:

Basic

12,352

13,499

Diluted

12,447

13,865

TABLE

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS

(In thousands)

May 3, 2008

February 2, 2008

May 5, 2007

ASSETS

Current Assets:

Cash and cash equivalents

$9,909

$9,177

$21,293

Accounts receivable

1,159

411

793

Merchandise inventories

192,318

200,781

182,646

Deferred income tax benefit

2,410

2,340

2,192

Other

7,124

7,221

7,307

Total Current Assets

212,920

219,930

214,231

Property and equipment-net

70,191

71,686

74,005

Total Assets

$283,111

$291,616

$288,236

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

Current Liabilities:

Accounts payable

$49,735

$67,786

$38,304

Accrued and other liabilities

15,072

10,689

15,405

Total Current Liabilities

64,807

78,475

53,709

Deferred lease incentives

4,920

5,396

5,814

Accrued rent

5,751

5,925

6,195

Deferred income taxes

558

399

477

Deferred compensation

3,742

3,559

3,469

Other

1,370

1,250

784

Total Liabilities

81,148

95,004

70,448

Total Shareholders' Equity

201,963

196,612

217,788

Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity

$283,111

$291,616

$288,236

TABLE

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC.

CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS

(In thousands)

Thirteen Weeks Ended May 3, 2008__ Thirteen Weeks Ended May 5, 2007

Cash flows from operating activities:

Net income

$4,784

$7,327

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:

Depreciation and amortization

4,138

3,876

Stock-based compensation

232

474

Loss on retirement of assets

63

25

Deferred income taxes

89

(161

)

Other

(347

)

(16

)

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

Accounts receivable

(748

)

155

Merchandise inventories

8,463

14,016

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities

(15,872

)

(31,283

)

Other

2,161

(2,188

)

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities

2,963

(7,775

)

Cash flows from investing activities:

Purchases of property and equipment

(2,565

)

(5,991

)

Proceeds from sale of property and equipment

1

144

Net cash used in investing activities

(2,564

)

(5,847

)

Cash flows from financing activities:

Borrowings under line of credit

6,625

0

Payments on line of credit

(6,625

)

0

Proceeds from issuance of stock

346

431

Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation

(13

)

291

Common stock repurchased

0

(646

)

Net cash provided by financing activities

333

76

Net increase (decrease) in cash and cash equivalents

732

(13,546

)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period

9,177

34,839

Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period

$9,909

$21,293

Subject: Financial performance; Appointments & personnel changes; Administrative expenses

Publication title: Business Wire; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 29, 2008

Dateline: EVANSVILLE, Ind.

Publisher: Business Wire

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: Release

ProQuest document ID: 444597366

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/444597366?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Business Wire 2008

Last updated: 2010-06-30

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 181 of 313

May 30, 2008 (Page 26 of 162)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]30 May 2008: 26.

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Abstract: None available.

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Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 49

Issue: 35

First page: 26

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 30, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249346948

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Last updated: 2019-06-30

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 182 of 313

May 30, 2008 (Page 97 of 162)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]30 May 2008: 97.

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Abstract: None available.

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Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 49

Issue: 35

First page: 97

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 30, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249346987

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Last updated: 2019-06-30

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 183 of 313

Slumming it in style

Author: As told to Sue Chester

Publication info: FT.com ; London (May 31, 2008).

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Name: Bob Nadkarni Age: 65Occupation: Painter, filmmaker, musician and hotelierBorn in: Swindon, western EnglandNow living in: Rio de Janeiro

In 1972, after the break-up of a relationship, I headed to Ecuador but the ship broke down at Salvador. We were told it would take eight days to sort the problem. I disembarked on the first day of carnival, got distracted by a lovely young girl and the boat sailed without me. A couple of months later I eventually came down to Rio. And my impressions haven't really changed very much. It's known as the "Marvellous City" and there is something about it that is unequalled anywhere. And I've travelled a lot.

I stayed in Brazil for a year before I got slung out by the military. But I thought to myself: "I've got to get back to Brazil, I love Brazil." I've never felt anything vibrate like that in my life. I realised that the only people that the Brazilian military were afraid of were foreign correspondents so in 1979 I came back to Brazil as a United Press International Television News correspondent.

In 1981 the maid who worked for me got sick so I decided to take her home. My flatmate told me not to, warning me that favelas (Rio's shantytowns) were dangerous. But for anyone who has been to a war zone a favela is like a children's tea party. When I looked out of the maid's window I was struck breathless by the most magnificent panorama. I thought: "How is it possible that the poor have this and the rich are down in the sweat, filth and the noise?" So I decided there and then to get myself something up here. Originally it was to be an atelier for my art.

Everybody was so kind to me here when I started building. They all said when I arrived: "Oh, he won't last long. Leave him alone." But then, after two years of seeing me carrying 50kg bags of cement 300 yards along the road, if anybody attacked me everyone piled on them shouting: "Leave him alone, he's a worker!"

The drugs violence started slowly. It really started to get bad in 1992 to 1993. Finally, eight years ago, the Bope [the elite squad of the police] set up a headquarters in the abandoned casino that's almost next door here. They arrived at the end of 2001 and the day they moved in there was instant peace. Until then we'd had five or six years of heavy drug traffic with killings, drugs wars, bullets flying everywhere. I never personally had any problems with the gangs at all. I didn't avoid them but I did make it clear I hated drugs and not to go near my eldest son. We do sometimes hear the shoot-outs from the Santo Amaro favela on the other side of the hill.

My house is like a cathedral. It will be eternally built and left for my children and grandchildren to finish off.

My paintings are the most important thing in my life. Anyone who walks into this house can see the way I think, not only my history. I created an interpretation of Gauguin's picture of his young wife. That's because when I came here and got my first Brazilian wife I felt a great solidarity with him. So it's a Rio version of a Gauguin.

The tabular content relating to this article is not available to view. Apologies in advance for the inconvenience caused.

My wife, Malu, lived next door to my first Brazilian wife, who lived next door to me.When we had Lucy, six, and Eric, four, I realised I had to do something so that my missus could bring up our children if anything happens to me. We had always had people staying in the spare room (including [the directors] Alan Parker and Stephen Frears and [the Beatles' producer] Sir George Martin) so I thought, "if people want to stay here they can jolly well pay for it". So I started building a hotel. This year I decided to build a new bar because the jazz night I started a year ago has expanded so much. We started off with two musicians and a public of 12. Now we've got a jam session and a public of 200. The idea was just for me to have fun because I used to sing with a jazz band in London.

We overlook Guanabara Bay, directly east, so we can see the sunrise spilling red like blood over the mountains, then pouring like fresh orange juice over the mountains on to the sea. Then it wafts into the room and you've got a Carioca [Rio de Janerio] morning. It is something tired guests stay up for. It's totally magic.

If someone builds in front of me and blocks the view I'd do nothing. I've got another verandah on the top of the house and there is no way anyone else could build in front of that because it's just too high up: nine floors now. I've never had any complaints about my building going upwards. Everyone just accepts what happens. Nobody owns anything officially. Some people complain when their window is totally blocked off when someone builds right next to it but there's not a lot you can do about it.

We have 12 rooms (all en-suite) and four apartments in Malu's old house next door. There are two common terraces and three of the rooms have private terraces. I'll stop at 20 bedrooms.

When you enter my front door you walk 30 metres before you hit the end of the room, and I purposely made it a straight line so tracks could go down and run a 35mm camera from the one end to the other.You've got to do it if you're going to rent the building out to film companies. If you want to film in a favela and you don't want to be shot at, you've got to come here. The Incredible Hulk filmed here. I had about 300 people in the house. Snoop Dog filmed his clip Beautiful here and a film by Jonathan Nossiter will be shooting in the summer with Matt Dillon, Charlotte Rampling, Fisher Stevens and me.

The total cost of this house?I've never counted and never want to count. I'm sitting on a diamond here. Already in the past five years, discounting inflation, the prices have more than doubled here.

Credit: As told to Sue Chester

Publication title: FT.com; London

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 31, 2008

Publisher: The Financial Times Limited

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 229185533

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/229185533?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright Financial Times Lt d. 2008. All rights reserved.)

Last updated: 2017-11-08

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 184 of 313

Slumming it in style

Author: Chester, Sue

Publication info: Financial Times ; London (UK) [London (UK)]31 May 2008: 13.

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Abstract:

In 1972, after the break-up of a relationship, I headed to Ecuador but the ship broke down at Salvador. We were told it would take eight days to sort the problem. I disembarked on the first day of carnival, got distracted by a lovely young girl and the boat sailed without me. A couple of months later I eventually came down to Rio. And my impressions haven't really changed very much. It's known as the "Marvellous City" and there is something about it that is unequalled anywhere. And I've travelled a lot.

If someone builds in front of me and blocks the view I'd do nothing.I've got another verandah on the top of the house and there is no way anyone else could build in front of that because it's just too high up: nine floors now. I've never had any complaints about my building going upwards. Everyone just accepts what happens. Nobody owns anything officially. Some people complain when their window is totally blocked off when someone builds right next to it but there's not a lot you can do about it.

When you enter my front door you walk 30 metres before you hit the end of the room, and I purposely made it a straight line so tracks could go down and run a 35mm camera from the one end to the other.You've got to do it if you're going to rent the building out to film companies. If you want to film in a favela and you don't want to be shot at, you've got to come here. The Incredible Hulk filmed here. I had about 300 people in the house. Snoop Dog filmed his clip Beautiful here and a film by Jonathan Nossiter will be shooting in the summer with Matt Dillon, Charlotte Rampling, Fisher Stevens and me.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Name: Bob Nadkarni

Age: 65

Occupation: Painter, filmmaker, musician and hotelier

Born in: Swindon, western England

Now living in: Rio de Janeiro

In 1972, after the break-up of a relationship, I headed to Ecuador but the ship broke down at Salvador. We were told it would take eight days to sort the problem. I disembarked on the first day of carnival, got distracted by a lovely young girl and the boat sailed without me. A couple of months later I eventually came down to Rio. And my impressions haven't really changed very much. It's known as the "Marvellous City" and there is something about it that is unequalled anywhere. And I've travelled a lot.

I stayed in Brazil for a year before I got slung out by the military. But I thought to myself: "I've got to get back to Brazil, I love Brazil." I've never felt anything vibrate like that in my life. I realised that the only people that the Brazilian military were afraid of were foreign correspondents so in 1979 I came back to Brazil as a United Press International Television News correspondent.

In 1981 the maid who worked for me got sick so I decided to take her home. My flatmate told me not to, warning me that favelas (Rio's shantytowns) were dangerous. But for anyone who has been to a war zone a favela is like a children's tea party. When I looked out of the maid's window I was struck breathless by the most magnificent panorama. I thought: "How is it possible that the poor have this and the rich are down in the sweat, filth and the noise?" So I decided there and then to get myself something up here. Originally it was to be an atelier for my art.

Everybody was so kind to me here when I started building. They all said when I arrived: "Oh, he won't last long. Leave him alone." But then, after two years of seeing me carrying 50kg bags of cement 300 yards along the road, if anybody attacked me everyone piled on them shouting: "Leave him alone, he's a worker!"

The drugs violence started slowly. It really started to get bad in 1992 to 1993.

Finally, eight years ago, the Bope [the elite squad of the police] set up a headquarters in the abandoned casino that's almost next door here. They arrived at the end of 2001 and the day they moved in there was instant peace. Until then we'd had five or six years of heavy drug traffic with killings, drugs wars, bullets flying everywhere. I never personally had any problems with the gangs at all. I didn't avoid them but I did make it clear I hated drugs and not to go near my eldest son. We do sometimes hear the shoot-outs from the Santo Amaro favela on the other side of the hill.

My house is like a cathedral. It will be eternally built and left for my children and grandchildren to finish off.

My paintings are the most important thing in my life. Anyone who walks into this house can see the way I think, not only my history. I created an interpretation of Gauguin's picture of his young wife. That's because when I came here and got my first Brazilian wife I felt a great solidarity with him. So it's a Rio version of a Gauguin.

My wife, Malu, lived next door to my first Brazilian wife, who lived next door to me. When we had Lucy, six, and Eric, four, I realised I had to do something so that my missus could bring up our children if anything happens to me. We had always had people staying in the spare room (including [the directors] Alan Parker and Stephen Frears and [the Beatles' producer] Sir George Martin) so I thought, "if people want to stay here they can jolly well pay for it". So I started building a hotel. This year I decided to build a new bar because the jazz night I started a year ago has expanded so much. We started off with two musicians and a public of 12. Now we've got a jam session and a public of 200. The idea was just for me to have fun because I used to sing with a jazz band in London.

We overlook Guanabara Bay, directly east, so we can see the sunrise spilling red like blood over the mountains, then pouring like fresh orange juice over the mountains on to the sea. Then it wafts into the room and you've got a Carioca {Rio de Janerio] morning. It is something tired guests stay up for. It's totally magic.

If someone builds in front of me and blocks the view I'd do nothing.I've got another verandah on the top of the house and there is no way anyone else could build in front of that because it's just too high up: nine floors now. I've never had any complaints about my building going upwards. Everyone just accepts what happens. Nobody owns anything officially. Some people complain when their window is totally blocked off when someone builds right next to it but there's not a lot you can do about it.

We have 12 rooms (all en-suite) and four apartments in Malu's old house next door. There are two common terraces and three of the rooms have private terraces. I'll stop at 20 bedrooms.

When you enter my front door you walk 30 metres before you hit the end of the room, and I purposely made it a straight line so tracks could go down and run a 35mm camera from the one end to the other.You've got to do it if you're going to rent the building out to film companies. If you want to film in a favela and you don't want to be shot at, you've got to come here. The Incredible Hulk filmed here. I had about 300 people in the house. Snoop Dog filmed his clip Beautiful here and a film by Jonathan Nossiter will be shooting in the summer with Matt Dillon, Charlotte Rampling, Fisher Stevens and me.

The total cost of this house? I've never counted and never want to count. I'm sitting on a diamond here. Already in the past five years, discounting inflation, the prices have more than doubled here.

People: Nadkarni, Bob

Publication title: Financial Times; London (UK)

First page: 13

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: May 31, 2008

Section: FT WEEKEND SUPPLEMENT - HOUSE & HOME

Publisher: The Financial Times Limited

Place of publication: London (UK)

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London (UK)

Publication subject: Business And Economics--Banking And Finance, Political Science

ISSN: 03071766

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: Englis h

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 250116143

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/250116143?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright Financial Times Ltd. 2008. All rights reserved.)

Last updated: 2017-11-14

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 185 of 313

June 1, 2008 (Page 64 of 345)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]01 June 2008: 64.

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Abstract: None available.

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Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 49

Issue: 37

First page: 64

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jun 1, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249457972

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249457972?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Jun 1, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-30

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 186 of 313

Scene calendar

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Gainesville Sun ; Gainesville, Fla. [Gainesville, Fla]05 June 2008.

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Abstract:

FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY: "Namibia - The Smile of Africa:" Artist [Mary Jane Volkmann] depicts life of native people of Namibia, opens today through July 12; "Butterflies and Moths in Contemporary Zuni Art:" Discover how butterflies have influenced Zuni Indian art, through 2008: "Charles R. Knight: Studies of Lost Worlds:" Seven study paintings and a self-portrait, through Jan. 31, 2009, Florida Museum of Natural History. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays, 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (846-2000)

HARN MUSEUM OF ART: Through Sunday: "Paradigms and the Unexpected: Modern and Contemporary Art from the Shey Collection;" through June 30: "Highlights from the Photography Collection: University of Florida's Photographic Legacy;" through July 20: "Vision/Revision: Contemporary Art from the Harn Collection," SW 34th Street and Hull Road. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays, 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (392-9826)

THOMAS CENTER GALLERIES: "Juror's Choice: 2007 Regional Award Winners," painting, sculpture and mixed media, through July 6, Main Gallery. "Gainesville Association for the Creative Arts," runs through June 29, Mezzanine Gallery, 302 NE 6th Ave. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays; 1-4 p.m. weekends. (393-8532)

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Full text:  

"LET'S GO DOWNTOWN:" Local and regional bands perform under the stars, 8-10 p.m. Fridays, through October, Downtown Community Plaza, SE 1st Street and University Avenue. Free. This week is reggae with De Lions of Jah. (393-7520)

GAINESVILLE FRIENDS OF JAZZ: MARCUS ROBERTS TRIO:With Will Goble and Dave Potter, 8 p.m. Tuesday, Savannah Grande Reception Hall, 301 N. Main St. Tickets: $20 general; $15 members; $10 students. (379-0300)

"SUMMER IN THE CITY:" Dancers, singers and musicians of America's Big Band perform various big band styles, 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Phillips Center. Tickets: $15-$30. (392-2787)

"O2B: A DECADE:" Spring recital from O2B Kids, 4 p.m. and 7 p.m. Saturday, Phillips Center. Tickets: $6. (392-ARTS) "THE LION, THE WITCH AND THE WARDROBE:" Performance directed by Kathy Burne and based on the novel by C.S. Lewis, 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Saturday; 2 p.m. Sunday, UF campus, Constans Theatre. Tickets: $7. (392-1653)

"COLLEGE: THE MUSICAL:" A musical that takes an honest look at modern campus life, opens Friday, 8 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays; 5:30 p.m. and 8 p.m. Saturdays; and 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Sundays. Runs through June 29. Hippodrome State Theatre, 25 SE 2nd Place. Tickets: $25-$30 general; $20 seniors; $15 students. (375-4477)

"ROMEO AND JULIET:"The Suwannee Valley Players present the classic tale of star-crossed lovers, 8 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays; 2:30 p.m. Sundays through June 15, Chief Theatre, 25 East Park Ave., Chiefland. Tickets: $8 adults; $6 students and children ages 5 and older; free for children ages 4 and under. Student night, 8 p.m. June 12. (493-2787)

"BLUE:" Dark drama laced with humor, 8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, Acrosstown Repertory Theatre. (375-1321)

"THE FOREIGNER:" Comedy about mistaken identity, 7:30 p.m. today-Saturday; and 4 p.m. Sunday, Black Box Theatre, 687 McCarty Drive. Tickets: $13 general; $9 students. (273-0500) "SLEEPING BEAUTY:" Dance performance presented by the Pofahl School of Dance, 6 p.m. Sunday, Phillips Center. Tickets: $10. (392-ARTS)

ROOM TO DANCE 2008: Student-choreographed performance to raise funds for dance groups at SFCC, 8 p.m. today-Saturday, SFCC E-Auditorium, 3000 NW 83rd St. Tickets: $5 general; free for SFCC students, children and seniors. YULEE DAY IN ARCHER: Parade, Civil War re-enactors and auction, Saturday, The Depot, Archer. Free. (495-1044)

YULEE RAILROAD DAYS AT HISTORIC HAILE HOMESTEAD: Railroads, planters and farmers tours, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, 8500 SW Archer Rd. $3 adults; free for children ages 12 and under. (336-9096)

INDIAN ARTIFACT AND FOSSIL SHOW: Private collections of prehistoric Indian artifacts and fossils on display, 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Saturday, The Clarion Inn, 7417 Newberry Road. $3. (332-7500)

TREASURE HUNTERS ROADSHOW: Evaluate the value of collectibles and antiques, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. today-Saturday, La Qunita Inn, 920 NW 69th Terrace. Free. (332-6466)

CIVIC MEDIA CENTER FILMS: "Murder on a Sunday Afternoon," follows the trial of a teenager accused of murder, 8 p.m. Monday; "The Shield Around the K: The History of K Records," 9 p.m. Wednesday, 1021 W. University Ave. Free. (373-0010)

CITY OF HAMPTON POLITICAL RALLY: With live music, barbecue, cake walk and speeches by local politicians, 3 p.m. Saturday, Hampton City Park. Dinner $7; rally is free. (745-2166)

MELON FEST: Watermelon rolling, seed spitting contest and live music by Quartermoon, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturday, High Springs Farmer's Market, Northwest Second Street. (386-454-3950)

FIRST-TIME HOMEBUYERS WORKSHOP:Learn about topics relevant to home-buying decisions, 3-6 p.m. Saturday, Wild Iris Books, 802 W. University Ave. Free. (375-7477)

WELLBORN BLUEBERRY FESTIVAL: Entertainment, arts and crafts, parade, Bake-Off contest and more, 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Andrews Square, 1340 8th Ave., Wellborn. Free. (386-963-1157)

LIVING EXHIBIT TALK: With artist Mary Jane Volkmann, 2 p.m. Saturday, Florida Museum of Natural History. Tickets: $6.50 adults; $5.50 Florida residents; $4 children ages 3-12. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (846-2000)

"INSIDE AFRICA:" Interactive exhibit of Africa's natural and cultural history and artifacts, through Sept. 7, Florida Museum of Natural History. Tickets: $6.50 general; $5.50 Florida residents; $4 children ages 3-12. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (846-2000)

KIKA SILVA PLA PLANETARIUM: Southern Nights, 7 p.m. Fridays; Children's matinee, 3 p.m. Saturdays; Black Holes, 5 p.m. Saturdays; Night Spirits, 7 p.m. Saturdays. Tickets: $4 general; $3 children and seniors at the door, SFCC, 3000 NW 83rd St. (395-5381 or sfcc.edu/planetarium)

COSMIC CONCERTS: "Sounds of the Underground," cosmic video featuring techno, dance, club and rave styles on the dome of the Kika Silva Pla Planetarium, 10 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 3000 NW 83rd St. Tickets: $10. (sfcc.edu/planetarium)

MORNINGSIDE NATURE CENTER: Living History Days: A slice of life from 1870, 9 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Saturdays. Animals fed 9 a.m. and 3 p.m. daily; Barnyard Buddies: Youngsters meet animals, 3 p.m. Wednesdays, Sundays; Feed-A-Frog Fridays: 2 p.m. first Fridays, Morningside Nature Center, 3540 E. University Ave. Free. (334-3326)WRITERS' ROUNDTABLE: 6:30 Mondays, Books-A-Million, 6111 W. Newberry Road. (371-8420)

GAINESVILLE POETS AND WRITERS: 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays, Books-A-Million, 2601 NW 13th St. (376-6623)

JONESVILLE WRITERS' GROUP: 6:30 p.m. second and fourth Thursdays, St. Joseph's Episcopal Church, Newberry Road, Jonesville. (fl_muse@bellsouth.net)"THE JUNGLE BOOK:" Auditioning young people of all ages, 3 p.m. June 14, High Springs Community Theatre, 103 NE 1st Ave., High Springs. Contact Tony Boothby. (262-1159)

CALL FOR VENDORS:For the "City Wide Yard Sale" in High Springs, 8 a.m.-noon Aug. 9. (386-454-3120 or www.highsprings.com)

PICNIC IN THE PARK AND FIREWORKS IN HIGH SPRINGS: Seeking all types of vendors and bakers for the apple pie contest. Applications at www.highspringsmainstreet.com. Contact Constance Heuss. (386-463-5070)

CALL FOR ARTISTS: For spaces at the Art Festival at Thornebrook, Oct. 4-5. Deadline: June 30. Contact Lyn White. (384-3642)

SEEKING EXHIBIT ENTRIES: The Florida Museum of Natural History and the Quilters of Alachua County Day Guild seek entries for the exhibit "Quilting Natural Florida II," planned for Spring 2010. Forms available at qacdg.org.

CULTURED CLAM COOK-OFF: Bring clam recipes and enter the cook-off at Cedar Key City Park. Must receive entries by 11:15 a.m. July 4. Contact Leslie Sturmer or Jennie Pinto. (352-543-5057 or 352-543-5757) "JUNQUE TO JEWELS:" Rummage sale and LifeSouth Bloodmobile, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Friday and Sunday, Congregation B'nai Israel, 3830 NW 16th Blvd. (376-1617)

SELF-DEFENSE WORKSHOP: Learn strategies to fight back and raise funds for the Alachua County Victim Services and Rape Crisis Center, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Saturday, Gainesville Health and Fitness for Women, 2441 NW 43rd St. $10. (374-4634) ARTISANS' GUILD GALLERY: Millhopper Square, 4201 NW 16th Blvd. Hours: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays; noon-5 p.m. Sundays. Reception, 7-9 p.m. Friday. (378-1383)

ART GALLERY AT BOOKS, INC.: "Water Fall, Water Rise," paintings by Tim Malles, 505 NW 13th St. Hours: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. daily. (374-4241) Reception 5:30-7:30 p.m. Friday.

BELLAMY ROAD ART GALLERY: 5910 Hampton St., Melrose. Gallery hours: noon-7 p.m. Fridays-Saturdays. (475-3435)

CEDAR KEYHOLE GALLERY: Wood works by Joanne Prizer through June, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, 457 2nd St. (543-5801)

COFRIN GALLERY: 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. weekdays, Oak Hall School, 8009 SW 14th Ave. (332-3609)

ELEANOR BLAIR STUDIO: Florida landscape paintings by Eleanor Blair, 4-7 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays, 113 S. Main St. (378-6006)

FLORIDA MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY: "Namibia - The Smile of Africa:" Artist Mary Jane Volkmann depicts life of native people of Namibia, opens today through July 12; "Butterflies and Moths in Contemporary Zuni Art:" Discover how butterflies have influenced Zuni Indian art, through 2008: "Charles R. Knight: Studies of Lost Worlds:" Seven study paintings and a self-portrait, through Jan. 31, 2009, Florida Museum of Natural History. Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Saturdays, 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (846-2000)

FOCUS GALLERY: "The Living Room," installation by Anna Kell, through August 29. Hours: 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. weekdays, UF campus, Fine Arts Building C, 400 SW 13th St. (392-0201, ext. 229)

GALLERY UNDER THE OAKS: 207 NE Cholokka Blvd., Micanopy. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Wednesdays-Sundays. (466-9229)

GRINTER GALLERY: "Visions of Bahia, Brazil in the Work of Jorge Amado and His Illustrators," 8:30 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays through July, UF campus, Grinter Hall, 400 SW 13th St. (392-0201, ext. 229)

HARN MUSEUM OF ART: Through Sunday: "Paradigms and the Unexpected: Modern and Contemporary Art from the Shey Collection;" through June 30: "Highlights from the Photography Collection: University of Florida's Photographic Legacy;" through July 20: "Vision/Revision: Contemporary Art from the Harn Collection," SW 34th Street and Hull Road. Hours: 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Tuesdays-Fridays, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays, 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (392-9826)

HAROLD'S FRAMES AND GALLERY: 101 SE 2nd Place, 1-5:30 p.m. Mondays, 10:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Wednesdays, 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays, 11 a.m. Saturdays. (375-0260)

HAWTHORNE HISTORICAL MUSEUM: 7225 SE 221st St. (954-551-7692)

HECTOR FRAMING AND GALLERY:"Horse and Water Show," paintings by Lissa Friedman, 702 W. University Ave. Hours: 9 a.m.-6 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturdays. (271-4243 or hectorframingallery.com)

MATHESON MUSEUM: Framed pieces commemorating UF's football and basketball championships, 513 E. University Ave. Hours: 9:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. weekdays; 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturdays; and 1-5 p.m. Sundays. Museum admission: $4; free for children ages 12 and under. (378-2280)

MCINTYRE STAINED GLASS STUDIO AND ART GALLERY: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mondays-Fridays, 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Saturdays, 2441 NW 43rd St., Suite 11A. (372-2752)

MELROSE BAY ART GALLERY: "Expressions in Color and Form," glass works by Sky Campbell and Sarah Hinds, 103 SR-26 at Centre Street, Melrose. Gallery hours: 3-7 p.m. Fridays; 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturdays; 1-5 p.m. Sundays. (475-3866 or mbagallery.smugmug.com) Reception 6-10 p.m. Friday.

RANDY BATISTA GALLERY: 21 SE 2nd Place. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays. (375-1911)

SFCC PRESIDENT'S GALLERY: "Time's Up," Clock faces and posters by students of the Graphic Design and Technology Department, through Wednesday, SFCC, 3000 NW 83rd St. Hours: noon-4 p.m. weekdays. (395-5979)

SWEETWATER PRINT CO-OP GALLERY: Paintings by Cynthia Pagel made in memory of Printmaking teacher Ken Kerslake, runs through June 25, 117 S. Main St. (375-0790) Reception 7-10 p.m. Friday.

THE CEDAR KEYHOLE GALLERY: Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, 2nd Street, Cedar Key. (543-5801)

THOMAS CENTER GALLERIES: "Juror's Choice: 2007 Regional Award Winners," painting, sculpture and mixed media, through July 6, Main Gallery. "Gainesville Association for the Creative Arts," runs through June 29, Mezzanine Gallery, 302 NE 6th Ave. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. weekdays; 1-4 p.m. weekends. (393-8532)

UNIVERSITY GALLERY: Fine Arts Building B, 400 SW 13th St. (392-0201)"BIG TROUBLE IN LITTLE GAINESVILLE:" Works by designer of Hot Topic T-shirt and artist Heather Gabel, Store 101, 101 N. Main Street. Gallery hours: 11 a.m.-9 p.m. Tuesdays-Thursdays; 11 a.m.-midnight Fridays and Saturdays. (377-7044) Reception 7 p.m.-midnight Friday.

GAINESVILLE FINE ARTS ASSOCIATION: Summer show, Central Park Medical Plaza, 4343 Newberry Rd. Reception 5:30-7 p.m. Friday.

OAK HAMMOCK ARTISTS: Artists residing in the retirement community showcase their work, runs through Saturday, UF campus, Reitz Union, "The Gallery," Gale Lemerland Drive and Museum Road. Gallery hours: 9 a.m.-9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Fridays.

TRINITY'S TALENTS ART AND PHOTOGRAPHY SHOW: Works by members of Trinity United Methodist Church, runs through June 24. Hours: 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Mondays-Thursdays; 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Fridays; 8 a.m.-noon Sundays. Education Building, second floor, 4000 NW 53rd Ave.STEVIE NICKS: 7:30 p.m. Sunday, Ford Amphitheatre, Tampa. Tickets: $25-$125 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

THE CURE: 7 p.m. Wednesday, St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa. Tickets: $43.25-$63.25 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

PEARL JAM: 7 p.m. June 12, St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa. Tickets: $69.75 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

ROWDY FRYNDS: LYNYRD SKYNYRD AND HANK JR.: 7 p.m. June 14, Veterans Memorial Auditorium, Jacksonville. Tickets: $41.50-$71.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

MELISSA ETHERIDGE: 8 p.m. June 19, Florida Theatre, Jacksonville. Tickets: $30-$100 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

MODEST MOUSE: 7:30 p.m. June 25, St. Augustine Ampitheatre, St. Augustine. Tickets: $26 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

TOBY KEITH: 7:30 p.m. June 28, Ford Amphitheatre, Tampa. Tickets: $30.25-$69.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

TOM PETTY AND THE HEARTBREAKERS: 7:30 p.m. July 16, St. Pete Times Forum, Tampa. Tickets: $55-$99.75 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

BROOKS AND DUNN: 7 p.m. July 27, Veterans Memorial Auditorium, Jacksonville. Tickets: $38.50-$48.50 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

WILCO: 8 p.m. Aug. 6, Florida Theatre, Jacksonville. Tickets: $30 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

ROD STEWART: 7:30 p.m. Aug. 28, Ford Amphitheatre, Tampa. Tickets: $35-$135 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

NEIL DIAMOND: 8 p.m. Oct. 30, Veterans Memorial Auditorium, Jacksonville. Tickets: $54-$119 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

MADONNA: 7:30 p.m. Nov. 26, Dolphin Stadium, Miami. Tickets: $55-$350 at Ticketmaster. (904-353-3309)

MARILYN MANSON: 8 p.m. January 19, Hard Rock Live, Orlando. Tickets: $40-65 at Ticketmaster. (904-3553-3309 "LET'S GO DOWNTOWN:" Neo-soul and neo-jazz with Collective Format; and African dance and drumming with Omi Ajamu, 8-10 p.m. June 13, Downtown Community Plaza, SE 1st Street and University Avenue. Free. (393-7520)

CAMERON DANCENTER: Annual production of Dancenter students, 6:30 p.m. June 13; 2:30 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. June 14, Phillips Center. Tickets: $5. (392-2787)

"HOLLYWOOD: A NIGHT OUT WITH THE STARS:" A father, daughter event with dinner and dancing, 5-7:30 p.m. June 14, Thelma Boltin Center, 1024 NE 14th St., Building A. Advanced registration required. Tickets: $28 per couple. (334-5067)

"SWEET BABY JAMES:" Father's Day tribute to James Taylor with musicians Bob Stillman and Connie James, 4 p.m. June 15, Phillips Center. Tickets: $15-$30. (392-2787)

FAMILY DAY: PORTRAITS OF SYMBOLIC IDENTITY:Create self-portraits and explore identity metaphors with guest artist Erin Curry, 1-4 p.m. June 21, Harn Museum. Free. (392-9826)

"THE PIANO MEN:"

A multimedia rock musical tribute to Elton John and Billy Joel starring Jim Witter, 7:30 p.m. June 27, Phillips Center. Tickets: $15-$30. (392-2787)

"TWELFTH NIGHT:" Production of the carnival spirit set in Shakespearean Italy returns, 7:30 p.m. July 10-12, and 2 p.m. July 13, Constans Theater, UF Campus. Tickets: $9-$13. (392-1653)

BJORN AGAIN: THE ABBA SHOW: Celebrate the music of a generation with dancing and singing to Abba's greatest hits, 7:30 p.m. July 11, Phillips Center. Tickets: $15-$30. (392-2787)

Company: Ticketmaster Corp

Publication title: Gainesville Sun; Gainesville, Fla.

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jun 5, 2008

Section: NEWS

Publisher: Halifax Media Group

Place of publication: Gainesville, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Gainesville, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 01634925

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 390527929

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/390527929?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 New York Times Company

Last updated: 2012-10-12

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 187 of 313

Brazil Oil IPO Lures Investors; Eike Batista Bets Undersea Leases Will Yield Gusher

Author: Regalado, Antonio

Publication info: Wall Street Journal , Eastern edition; New York, N.Y. [New York, N.Y]12 June 2008: B.1.

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Abstract:

The entrepreneur, who keeps a $500,000 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren parked in his living room, is the third-richest person in Brazil, by Forbes magazine's calculations, and says his goal is to be the world's richest in five years. Investors in a Toronto-listed mining company he headed, TVX Gold Inc., saw it soar but then tumble as the company lost millions on failed projects in Greece and Russia.

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Full text:

Rio de Janeiro -- Excitement over oil is surging in Brazil, which recently found an undersea trove of it. Nobody in Brazil is betting bigger than Eike Batista.

After creating an oil company from scratch last summer, Mr. Batista, an excitable former powerboat champion, snapped up drilling rights on 21 undersea tracts. Pledging $1.12 billion, he far outbid others at an auction.

Now the 50-year-old Mr. Batista, an entrepreneur already rich from gold and iron mining, is giving the public a chance to join him in his big oil bet. Without having put a drill bit in the ground, he is taking his oil company public.

The offering of OGX Petroleo e Gas Participacoes SA is priced to raise more than $3.5 billion, twice as much as Google Inc.'s high- profile 2004 IPO. As of March, the company had only 30 employees. It's an indication of the way lofty oil prices have sent cash flowing into the oil sector, even to start-up wildcatters. The stock is expected to begin trading on Brazil's Bovespa exchange Friday.

Mr. Batista's investment road show has drawn overflow crowds of fund managers eager to get in on the deal. "He's created huge expectations, but it's hugely risky," says Jean-Paul Prates, a lawyer and consultant who helped write Brazil's oil laws. "They've loaded a bazooka, and they're going to have to hit something soon."

Offshore Brazil is among the few places with the potential for large new oil discoveries. Excitement centers on deep waters where state- controlled Petroleo Brasileiro SA, or Petrobras, has found signs of immense reserves. They lie under more than a mile of water and a mile- thick layer of hard salt, formed eons ago when the African and South American continents separated.

Brazil's oil output from other fields already is on the rise, up 60% this decade to a very substantial two million barrels a day. If the new discoveries pan out, they could make the nation a significant exporter within a decade.

There's one problem for drillers who would exploit the new finds: Just before a scheduled auction of drilling rights last fall, the government pulled the promising deep-water tracts. It let companies bid only on areas that have been worked over for years.

That didn't stop Mr. Batista, who is nothing if not a risk taker. The entrepreneur, who keeps a $500,000 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren parked in his living room, is the third-richest person in Brazil, by Forbes magazine's calculations, and says his goal is to be the world's richest in five years. Based on the offering price of $689 a share, chosen by bankers Wednesday night, OGX will be valued at about $22 billion. And Mr. Batista's 60% stake would add $13 billion to his wealth.

In March, Mr. Batista agreed to buy one of Rio's grandest hotels, saying he would rename it Hotel Billionaire. But in Brazil, he is best known for his marriage to an actress and Carnival queen -- along with the marriage's end in a divorce tracked avidly by the gossip press.

Mr. Batista's oil project has much in common with his prior ventures, in which he scratched together valuable assets on the turf of larger companies. This year, an iron-ore operation he had cobbled together in three years was sold to Anglo American PLC for $5.5 billion. "They laughed at us -- no one thought that story could evolve so fast," Mr. Batista said in an interview earlier this year.

Earlier in his career, Mr. Batista flew into rough airstrips in the Amazon and bought gold from prospectors. He got into bigger mining operations when non-Brazilian firms needed a Brazilian partner. They had confidence in him partly because his father was a prominent mining executive, who had led Brazil's Cia. Vale do Rio Doce.

His rise to phenomenal riches has made Mr. Batista a hero to Brazil's growing entrepreneurial class. "For me, Eike is the most intelligent guy out there -- I think he is a genius," says Pedro de Andrade Faria, a partner at Tarpon Investments, a Sao Paulo hedge fund. "He's a serial entrepreneur doing things on a massive scale."

But not all of his ventures have panned out. Among the failures: a FedEx knockoff; a cosmetics brand he backed for his ex-wife; and a company that built a Jeep-like vehicle with an army engine imported from France. Investors in a Toronto-listed mining company he headed, TVX Gold Inc., saw it soar but then tumble as the company lost millions on failed projects in Greece and Russia.

"One thing for good and for bad is that he's very passionate," says Julio Carvalho, a former partner of Mr. Batista's in a Brazilian gold mine. Mr. Carvalho says that at Mr. Batista's recent birthday party on his cruise boat, amid a throng of guests, Mr. Batista grabbed him and, sobbing, kissed him like a brother. "He doesn't give a damn -- he makes decisions totally in his heart and with his nose," Mr. Carvalho says.

Mr. Batista got interested in oil when a former Petrobras executive he had hired to run his mining operation told him that more than 30% of offshore wells Petrobras drilled found oil. Those sounded like good odds to Mr. Batista. "The hit ratio in gold mining is 17,000 to one," he says.

He founded OGX last July and quickly hired a dozen executives from Petrobras, including one of its top exploration executives. The hires gave him unique insights into the geology of offshore Brazil.

In 2006 and again in 2007, Petrobras struck oil in a deep-water site called Tupi. The size of the find was still under wraps when OGX began laying plans to bid heavily at a planned November auction of oil- exploration leases.

Nineteen days before the auction, Petrobras revealed to Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva the find's immense potential: perhaps five billion to eight billion barrels. And Petrobras executives told the president that tests indicated the exploration risk was close to zero, according to an account of the meeting in a book by Haroldo Lima, the head of Brazil's petroleum agency.

The government quickly pulled 41 deep-water exploration blocks near Tupi out of the the auction. The move disrupted bidding plans by major companies that had spent months preparing bids. As a result, oil majors largely sat out the auction, which was confined to blocks on land and in shallower waters.

The shallower tracts, already explored for more than two decades, are unlikely to contain major undiscovered reserves, says Victor Dauzacker, a former Petrobras exploration chief. Still, he adds, today's better seismic technology could find substantial pockets of missed oil, which at today's prices would be valuable.

And OGX does "have a very good exploration team," Mr. Dauzacker adds. "I don't have any doubt that if those blocks have petroleum, they will find it."

While oil majors stood aside, Mr. Batista aggressively submitted bids -- all of them ending in 63, the number of his speedboat, which he considers lucky. OGX outbid Petrobras in several cases.

Some industry experts think OGX overpaid. In some instances, the company outbid everyone else by as much as 10 times.

Rafael Doria Neto, president of a competitor called Starfish Oil & Gas SA, argues that OGX "couldn't afford to lose" at the auction, given its business situation: a company that had been put together fast and needed to attract investors. "To do what he is doing, he needs a convincing story," says Mr. Neto.

Others say the huge premiums Mr. Batista paid mean he must have known where the oil is -- or thought he did. "It's the only explanation for how they bid so much," says Mr. Prates, the lawyer and consultant.

His hiring last year of executives such as Paulo Mendonca, who was Petrobras's executive manager of exploration, spurred debate over how much inside knowledge Mr. Batista might have obtained. At Starfish, which also is staffed by former Petrobras hands, Mr. Neto says hiring away brains to obtain information "could be immoral, but it's not illegal."

Mr. Batista says the offshore fields' potential was clear from public reports and other geological data -- at least to the top minds he hired. Geology "is an interpretative science. How you analyze it is what is important," he says.

OGX, which spent $30 million buying geological data before its bid, estimates its lease areas hold at least four billion barrels of oil. It expects to be producing oil within four years. But the company has a lot of spending ahead of it. Drilling a test well, even in shallow waters, can cost $20 million, says Matthew Shaw, an analyst at oil- and-gas research firm Wood Mackenzie.

Shortly after the auction, OGX raised $1.3 billion from investors, such as the Ontario Teachers Pension Fund. The company says it will spend $1.1 billion of the cash it is raising in the IPO on exploration and an equal sum to buy into exploration partnerships with other companies.

Handling the offering on Brazil's Bovespa exchange are Credit Suisse Group, UBS AG and Brazil's Banco Itau.

Prior to the offering, demand was running 10 times the number of shares available, according to Felipe Taylor, an analyst at Ciano Investments in Rio who says who says his fund is a buyer. "It's a high-risk, high-return situation," he says. "The upside is very big if they succeed."

---

John Lyons contributed to this article.

View Image - Enlarge this image.

Subject: Offshore drilling; Initial public offerings

Location: Brazil

People: Batista, Eike

Company / organization: Name: OGX Petroleo e Gas Participacoes SA; NAICS: 211111

Classification: 9173: Latin America; 8510: Petroleum industry

Publication title: Wall Street Journal, Eastern edition; New York, N.Y.

Pages: B.1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jun 12, 2008

Publisher: Dow Jones & Company Inc

Place of publication: New York, N.Y.

Country of publication: United States, New York, N.Y.

Publication subject: Business And Economics--Banking And Finance

ISSN: 00999660

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 399109585

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/399109585?accountid=4840

Copyright: (c) 2008 Dow Jones & Company, Inc. Reproduced with permission of copyright owner. Further reproduction or distribution is prohibit ed without permission.

Last updated: 2017-11-02

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Major Dailies

Document 188 of 313

June 15, 2008 (Page 60 of 323)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]15 June 2008: 60.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 49

Issue: 51

First page: 60

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jun 15, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249024256

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249024256?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Jun 15, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 189 of 313

June 15, 2008 (Page 18 of 323)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]15 June 2008: 18.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 49

Issue: 51

First page: 18

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jun 15, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249024787

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249024787?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Jun 15, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 190 of 313

BRAZIL'S JAPANESE CELEBRATING 100 YEARS GROUP OF 1.5 MILLION LARGEST OUTSIDE OF JAPAN ITSELF

Author: Lehman, Stan

Publication info: South Florida Sun - Sentinel ; Fort Lauderdale, Fla. [Fort Lauderdale, Fla]15 June 2008: A.18.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

"This is fun," [Miyabi Endo] says, switching effortlessly back to Portuguese while her teacher writes more phrases on the blackboard. "One day I'll be able to understand my grandparents better. They don't speak Portuguese very well."

"Recruiters told my mother and father that money grew on trees in Brazil. They had never even heard of Brazil, but the idea of picking money off trees persuaded them to board the ship," said 80-year-old Antonio Nisishima, whose parents arrived on the Kasato Maru. "Instead of money, they picked coffee beans. My parents saw very little of the money they helped the plantation owner earn."

"As younger generations started moving into large urban centers, they came into close contact with Brazil's culture of miscegenation," [Marcos Persici] said. "In 50 years, it will be almost impossible to distinguish the community as an ethnically different group."

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

"Inu ga wan wan."

Miyabi Endo, a gregarious 8-year-old, carefully sounds out "the dog barks" in Japanese in a modest concrete schoolhouse amid the small farms that skirt Sao Paulo.

"Neko ga nyan nyan," the cat meows.

"This is fun," Miyabi says, switching effortlessly back to Portuguese while her teacher writes more phrases on the blackboard. "One day I'll be able to understand my grandparents better. They don't speak Portuguese very well."

The school in this greenbelt city is one of several operated by the region's Japanese-Brazilian families to continue their culture and traditions a century after their ancestors first arrived in Brazil.

Nearly 800 Japanese peasants landed in the port of Santos aboard the steamship Kasato Maru on June 18, 1908, spurring a wave of immigration that has grown to 1.5 million people - the largest Japanese community outside Japan.

Not only are the numbers significant, but Japanese immigrants introduced foods that changed Brazilian cuisine and farming techniques that helped turn Latin America's biggest country into the agricultural superpower it is today.

"The importance of the Japanese community is best reflected in the greenbelts that today exist throughout Brazil, and in the concept of agricultural cooperatives that they introduced," said University of Sao Paulo historian Mario Sergio de Moraes. "It is also reflected in the many other contributions its members have made to our society in the arts, sciences and politics."

Japanese Crown Prince Naruhito will arrive Tuesday to help celebrate the 100th anniversary of the landing of the Kasato Maru and spend a week visiting Sao Paulo, Parana, Minas Gerais and Rio de Janeiro states. Festivities culminate in a Saturday show of taiko drummers and traditional awa odori and bon odori dances in Sao Paulo's 25,000-seat "sambodromo" stadium, famous for its parades during Carnival.

The immigrants first arrived because of negotiations between Japan and Sao Paulo state, where most Japanese-Brazilians still live. Japan needed an escape valve for poor farmers, who were left out of the country's rapid modernization beginning in the late 1800s, said historian Marcos Persici of Sao Paulo's Japanese Immigration Museum.

"And Sao Paulo coffee growers needed more and more workers to tend to their coffee plantations," Persici said.

Like many immigrant groups, the early settlers planned to return home in two to five years and start new lives with their earnings. But they quickly realized they would never save enough for a return ticket. Many eventually migrated to urban centers or to other rural areas, where they started as sharecroppers and later purchased small farms.

"Recruiters told my mother and father that money grew on trees in Brazil. They had never even heard of Brazil, but the idea of picking money off trees persuaded them to board the ship," said 80-year-old Antonio Nisishima, whose parents arrived on the Kasato Maru. "Instead of money, they picked coffee beans. My parents saw very little of the money they helped the plantation owner earn."

Nisishima said there wasn't much discrimination, except during World War II. But while some Latin American countries, particularly Peru, deported citizens of Japanese heritage to internment camps in the United States, Brazil didn't follow suit. But Japanese-Brazilians were not allowed to speak their language in public or hold any kind of public gathering.

"Our schools were shut down, and Japanese newspapers stopped circulating," Nisishima said. "But all that disappeared soon after the war ended."

The Japanese community also loosened its taboo on intermarriage after the war. Today, about 40 percent of the community has non-Japanese ancestry.

"As younger generations started moving into large urban centers, they came into close contact with Brazil's culture of miscegenation," Persici said. "In 50 years, it will be almost impossible to distinguish the community as an ethnically different group."

Miyabi's father, Horacio Massanori Endo, doesn't agree.

Endo, who grows persimmon, eggplant and peppers on his 12-acre farm, is the grandson of Japanese immigrants who arrived in 1910 and settled in Mogi das Cruzes.

"This may happen in terms of our physical traits because of the growing number of mixed marriages, but not in terms of language, culture and traditions," Endo said. "My daughter is just as much a Brazilian as anyone else, but she is also Japanese."

Credit: By STAN LEHMAN The Associated Press

Illustration

Photo(s) { SB; Caption: Studying his ah, ee, oo, eh and ohs: A Brazilian boy of Japanese descendant reads over a workbook of Japanese terms. On June 18, Brazil will celebrate the 100th anniversary of the arrival of 781 Japanese peasants to the South American country. Brazil's Japanese community stands at 1.5 million, the world's largest outside of Japan.AP photo/Andrew Penner

People: Endo, Miyabi Persici, Marcos

Publication title: South Florida Sun - Sentinel; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

First page: A.18

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jun 15, 2008

Dateline: MOGI DAS CRUZES, Brazil

Section: News

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Languageof publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 387561723

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/387561723?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by the Sun-Sentinel)

Last updated: 2017-11-09

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 191 of 313

Japanese mark 100 years in Brazil; Immigrants first arrived as poor farmers in 1908, but are now well integrated into society. They pioneered techniques still in use.

Author: Lehman, Stan

Publication info: Los Angeles Times ; Los Angeles, Calif. [Los Angeles, Calif]15 June 2008: A.6.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

"The importance of the Japanese community is best reflected in the greenbelts that today exist throughout Brazil, and in the concept of agricultural cooperatives that they introduced," said University of Sao Paulo historian Mario Sergio de Moraes.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

"Inu ga wan wan."

Miyabi Endo, a gregarious 8-year-old, carefully sounds out "the dog barks" in Japanese in a modest concrete schoolhouse amid the small farms that skirt Sao Paulo.

"Neko ga nyan nyan." The cat meows.

"This is fun," Miyabi says, switching effortlessly back to Portuguese while her teacher writes more phrases on the blackboard. "One day I'll be able to understand my grandparents better. They don't speak Portuguese very well."

This school is one of several operated by the region's Japanese Brazilian families to continue Japanese culture and traditions a century after their ancestors first arrived.

Nearly 800 Japanese peasants landed in the port of Santos aboard the steamship Kasato Maru on June 18, 1908, spurring a wave of immigration that has grown to 1.5 million people -- the largest Japanese community outside Japan.

Japanese immigrants introduced foods that changed Brazilian cuisine and farming techniques that helped turn Latin America's biggest country into an agricultural superpower.

"The importance of the Japanese community is best reflected in the greenbelts that today exist throughout Brazil, and in the concept of agricultural cooperatives that they introduced," said University of Sao Paulo historian Mario Sergio de Moraes. "It is also reflected in the many other contributions its members have made to our society in the arts, sciences and politics."

Japanese Crown Prince Naruhito will arrive Tuesday to help celebrate the 100th anniversary of the landing of the Kasato Maru and spend a week visiting Sao Paulo, Parana, Minas Gerais and Rio de Janeiro states. Festivities culminate in a June 21 show of taiko drummers and traditional awa odori and bon odori dances in Sao Paulo's 25,000-seat "sambodromo" stadium, famous for its parades during Carnival.

Among the elite

Japanese Brazilians, now in their fourth generation, have integrated and prospered. They are among the country's top artists, doctors and business leaders -- including abstractionist painters Tomie Ohtake and Manabu Mabe; Dr. Milton Nakamura, responsible for Brazil's first test-tube baby, and Shigeaki Ueki, former president of Brazil's government-run oil company, Petrobras.

The immigrants first arrived because of negotiations between Japan and Sao Paulo state, where most Japanese Brazilians still live. Japan needed an escape valve for poor farmers, who were left out of the country's rapid modernization beginning in the late 1800s, said historian Marcos Persici of Sao Paulo's Japanese Immigration Museum.

"And Sao Paulo coffee growers needed more and more workers to tend to their coffee plantations," Persici said.

Like many immigrant groups, the early settlers planned to return home in two to five years and start new lives with their earnings. But they quickly realized they would never save enough for a return ticket. Many eventually migrated to urban centers or to other rural areas, where they started as sharecroppers, then purchased small farms.

"Recruiters told my mother and father that money grew on trees in Brazil. They had never even heard of Brazil, but the idea of picking money off trees persuaded them to board the ship," said 80-year-old Antonio Nisishima, whose parents arrived on the Kasato Maru. "Instead of money, they picked coffee beans. My parents saw very little of the money they helped the plantation owner earn."

One of the immigrants' most important contributions was the introduction of irrigation and crop-rotating techniques, Persici said.

"These techniques gradually spread to the rest of the country as the community grew and its members started establishing themselves in other regions," he added.

They also introduced foods never before seen in Brazil, such as persimmon, loquats, radishes, turnips and new rice and bean varieties.

Wartime woes

Nisishima said there wasn't much discrimination, except during World War II. Japanese Brazilians were not allowed to speak their language in public or hold any kind of public gathering. But while some Latin American countries, particularly Peru, deported citizens of Japanese heritage to internment camps in the United States, Brazil did not.

"Our schools were shut down, and Japanese newspapers stopped circulating," Nisishima said. "But all that disappeared soon after the war ended."

The Japanese community also loosened its taboo on intermarriage after the war. Today, about 40% of the community has some non-Japanese ancestry.

"As younger generations started moving into large urban centers, they came into close contact with Brazil's culture of miscegenation," Persici said. "In 50 years, it will be almost impossible to distinguish the community as an ethnically different group."

Miyabi's father, Horacio Massanori Endo, doesn't agree.

Endo, who grows persimmon, eggplant and peppers on his 12-acre farm, is the grandson of Japanese immigrants who arrived in 1910 and settled in Mogi das Cruzes.

"This may happen in terms of our physical traits because of the growing number of mixed marriages. But not in terms of language, culture and traditions," he said. "My daughter is just as much a Brazilian as anyone else, but she is also Japanese."

Credit: Associated Press

Illustration

Caption: PHOTO: INTEGRATED: A second-generation Brazilian-Japanese in Sao Paulo. Japanese immigrants introduced foods that changed Brazilian cuisine and farming techniques that helped turn Latin America's biggest country into an agricultural superpower.; PHOTOGRAPHER:Marc Burleigh AFP/Getty Images; PHOTO: SETTLERS: Japanese descendant Antonio Nisishima says his parents were lured to Brazil by the promise of easy money. Nisishima said there wasn't much discrimination, except during World War II. Shortly after the war, life returned to normal.; PHOTOGRAPHER:Andre Penner Associated Press

Subject: Immigration; Agricultural cooperatives

Publication title: Los Angeles Times; Los Angeles, Calif.

Pages: A.6

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jun 15, 2008

Dateline: MOGI DAS CRUZES, BRAZIL

Section: Main News; Part A; National Desk

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Los Angeles, Calif.

Country of publication: United States, Los Angeles, Calif.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 04583035

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 422329335

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/422329335?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright (c) 2008 Los Angeles Times)

Last updated: 2017-11-14

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 192 of 313

June 16, 2008 (Page 10 of 30)

Publication info: Asheville Citizen-Times (1991-2011) ; Asheville, North Carolina [Asheville, North Carolina]16 June 2008: 10.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Asheville Citizen-Times (1991-2011); Asheville, North Carolina

Volume: 139

Issue: 168

First page: 10

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jun 16, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Asheville, North Carolina

Country of publication: United States, Asheville, North Carolina

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 1060-3255

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: Englis h

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2125901462

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2125901462?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Jun 16, 2008

Last updated: 2018-10-27

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 193 of 313

June 17, 2008 (Page 13 of 58)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]17 June 2008: 13.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 173

First page: 13

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jun 17, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2225925271

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2225925271?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Jun 17, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-16

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 194 of 313

Latin love: Blame it on bossa nova: Sao Paulo-born woman brings passion for music, Brazil's love of life back to Japan

Author: Matsutani, Minoru

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune Business News ; Washington [Washington]17 June 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Bossa nova, which blends jazz and Latin rhythms, is "very well-balanced with simple and an easy-to-sing melody, refined harmony and joyful and casual rhythm based on samba," Ono said. While bossa nova, literally meaning "new beat," helps her connect Brazil with Japan, Japanese living in Sao Paulo, the only place she lived in Brazil, were not very connected with the locals, she recalled.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Jun. 17--This is the first of a four-part series featuring Japanese emigration to Brazil. Wednesday marks the 100th anniversary of the first group to venture to the South American country. Lisa Ono, an early Japanese devotee of bossa nova, hopes her songs make people here aware of the wonders of the country of her birth, Brazil.

"I realized how nice a country Brazil is after moving to Japan," the Sao Paulo-born Japanese national said in a recent interview with The Japan Times. "I have been producing CDs, hoping I can show the Japanese how great Brazil is.

"I have traveled between the two countries so many times after returning to Japan, for CD recordings and other purposes," said Ono, who gave birth to her third child in April and has suspended her music activities since last fall.

Ono was born in Brazil and lived there until she was 10. Her parents had emigrated to the world's fifth-most populous country in 1957.

Unlike many Japanese who emigrated to Brazil 100 years ago in search of vast farmland, her father moved for different reasons.

"My father loved Brazilian music and wanted to run a live (performance) house in Brazil," Ono said. "He had a great impact on my" pursuit of a music career.

Spending a lot of time at her father's club in Sao Paulo, where she listened to music all the time, Ono was able to interact with the musicians her father invited to perform.

"That was my first encounter with music and the very foundation of my music life," said Ono, whose stage experiences include performing at the Fuji Rock Festival in 2006. She has also performed with renowned bossa nova pioneer Antonio Carlos Jobim.

Immediately after returning to Japan in 1972, her father opened a Brazilian restaurant in Yotsuya, Tokyo, where he invited many musicians to perform. Spending her early teens surrounded by Latin music, Ono was playing guitar and singing at age 15. She released her first CD in 1989.

Bossa nova, which blends jazz and Latin rhythms, is "very well-balanced with simple and an easy-to-sing melody, refined harmony and joyful and casual rhythm based on samba," Ono said. "It's hard to get tired of and people enjoy it all over the world."

The genre, which emerged from the young middle class in Brazil in the 1950s, "fits my personality," she said.

While bossa nova, literally meaning "new beat," helps her connect Brazil with Japan, Japanese living in Sao Paulo, the only place she lived in Brazil, were not very connected with the locals, she recalled.

"There were many Japanese around me, including my parents' friends, then, but they did not interact with Brazilians as much as other nationalities did, so they were viewed as mysterious," she said.

She spoke Japanese with her family, but Portuguese with maids and drivers at home. Elsewhere, including at school, she mostly spoke Portuguese.

She went to a Japanese kindergarten, but to better prepare for elementary school her parents let her study with Brazilian children at a local school.

She had a life outside the Japanese community and knew how to have fun the Brazilian way.

"I really loved dancing in costumes at the carnival every year," she said. "It is a very good memory."

At school, however, she faced academic challenges.

She used the Japanese "kuku" rhythmic recitation approach to memorize multiplication tables, having been told this was an easier method than studying it in Portuguese. But at school, she had to respond in Portuguese, and thus she had to translate answers from Japanese to Portuguese in her head.

She recalls being admonished by a teacher once when she was unable to respond quickly to a question in Portuguese. The impatient teacher scolded her, "Didn't you practice at home?"

But a bigger challenge awaited Ono upon her first setting foot in Japan.

When she arrived, Ono entered an elementary school but was placed in a class with children one year her junior. To improve her Japanese ability, she had to attend cram school to learn hiragana, which most Japanese children know by age 7.

Ono said she "enjoyed going to the cram school," but going every day was "sometimes tough."

She remembers adapting to life in Japan quickly but turned toward a music career to maintain her Brazilian cultural roots.

Trying to build a bridge between the two countries and two cultures, "both ends of an extreme," Ono praised the century of bilateral relations and what they've achieved.

"The seeds many immigrants have planted will bear fruit now that the two countries coexist, complementing each other with what they need: Brazil's ample resources and labor and Japan's high technology," she said.

She remembers that life in Brazil was peaceful when she lived there, but public safety has declined over the years. These days she is happy to hear from friends that the country's economy is expanding.

But she hopes Brazilians, who are "geniuses at enjoying life," maintain their cheery nature.

The entire world has a reason to support Brazil, which is rich in natural resources, including oil, and runs on hydroelectric power, Ono said, and the Amazon forests supply two-thirds of the planet's oxygen.

"All of these things are resources that can save the world. Japan should provide technological help and other things Japan has strength in," she said.

"And as for me, I would like to cooperate with Brazilians living in Japan to help build a bright future for the children."

Credit: Japan Times, Tokyo

Subject: Musicians & conductors; Musical performances

Location: Brazil Japan

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune Business News; Washington

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jun 17, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 464881685

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/464881685?accountid=4840

Copyright: To see more of the Japan Times or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.japantimes.co.jp.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/. Copyright (c) 2008, Japan Times, Tokyo Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Last updated: 2017-10-30

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 195 of 313

June 19, 2008 (Page 30 of 56)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]19 June 2008: 30.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 175

First page: 30

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jun 19, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2226111155

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2226111155?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Jun 19, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-16

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 196 of 313

Eyeing tourism, Haiti battles its violent reputation

Author: Reed, Lindsay

Publication info: The Christian Science Monitor ; Boston, Mass. [Boston, Mass]19 June 2008: 4.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Haiti's negative image has devastated its economy, whose once-booming tourism industry is now limited largely to aid workers, peacekeepers, and diplomats. A 2007 joint UN-World Bank study estimated the Caribbean's average murder rate at 30 per 100,000, with Jamaica registering nearly nine times as many murders - 49 homicides per 100,000 people - as those recorded by the UN in Haiti.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

Kidnappings, gang violence, drug trafficking, corrupt police, flaming road blockades.

The reports out of the poorest country in the Western Hemisphere are enough to keep the most adventurous traveler away.

But according to security experts and officials from the United Nations peacekeeping mission in Port-au-Prince, Haiti is no more violent than any other country in Latin America.

"It's a big myth," says Fred Blaise, spokesman for the UN police force in Haiti. "Port-au-Prince is no more dangerous than any big city. You can go to New York and get pickpocketed and held at gunpoint. The same goes for cities in Mexico or Brazil."

Haiti's negative image has devastated its economy, whose once-booming tourism industry is now limited largely to aid workers, peacekeepers, and diplomats.

But UN data indicate that the country could be among the safest in the region.

According to the UN peacekeeping mission, there were 487 homicides in Haiti last year, or about 5.6 per 100,000 people. A 2007 joint UN-World Bank study estimated the Caribbean's average murder rate at 30 per 100,000, with Jamaica registering nearly nine times as many murders - 49 homicides per 100,000 people - as those recorded by the UN in Haiti.

In 2006, the Dominican Republic notched more than four times as many homicides per capita than Haiti - 23.6 per 100,000, according to the Central American Observatory on Violence.

"There is not a large amount of violence [in Haiti]," argues Gen. Jose Elito Carvalho Siquiera, the Brazilian former commander of the UN force in Haiti. "If you compare the levels of poverty here with those of Sao Paolo or other cities, there is more violence there."

The UN peacekeeping mission, known as Minustah, arrived in June 2004, three months after US troops whisked former President Jean-Bertrand Aristide into exile in Africa amid an armed rebellion.

The de facto interim government, propped up by the UN, the United States, France, and Canada, launched a repressive campaign against Mr. Aristide's supporters, igniting two years of gunfights in Port-au-Prince's slums among gangs, Haitian police, and UN peacekeepers.

Meanwhile, a wave of kidnappings raised tensions, with Minustah registering 1,356 in 2005 and 2006.

"The kidnappings shocked everyone because they hadn't happened in the past," says Mr. Blaise. "Still, when you compare the number of kidnappings here, I don't think it's more than anywhere else."

Last year, security improved markedly as the number of kidnappings dropped by nearly 70 percent, part of an overall improvement in security under President Rene Preval, elected in a landslide in February 2006. But earlier this month, thousands of demonstrators took to the streets in Port-au-Prince to protest an increase in kidnappings. At least 160 people have been kidnapped this year, according to Haitian and UN police, Reuters reports. In all of 2007, 237 people were kidnapped, the report said.

And in April, thousands of people took to the streets to demand lower food prices, sending images of burning tires and rock-throwing protesters around the world.

Still, gunshots are now seldom heard in Port-au-Prince, and attacks on foreigners are few. In recent months, American Airlines flights from Miami have been packed with Christian missionaries.

Some observers say even when the instability was at its worst, violence was usually limited to a few Port-au-Prince slums.

"If you compare Haiti to Iraq, to Afghanistan, to Rwanda, we don't even appear on the same scale," says Patrick Elie, a former defense secretary who heads a government commission on the possible creation of a new security force.

"We've had a tumultuous history, one characterized by political instability," says Mr. Elie. "But except for the war that we had to wage to obtain our freedom and independence from the French, Haiti has never known a level of violence comparable to that which has been waged in Europe, in America, and the European countries in Africa and Asia."

Viva Rio, a Brazilian-based violence reduction group that came to Haiti at the request of the UN, managed in March 2007 to convince warring gangs in Bel Air and neighboring downtown slums to abstain from violence in exchange for youth scholarships. "This would be unthinkable in Rio," says Rubem Cesar Fernandes, Viva Rio's director.

Unlike in Brazil, he says, Haiti's slum-based gangs have little involvement in the drug trade. "Right now in Haiti there is more interest in peace than war," he says. "[T]here is this prejudice that associates Haiti with danger, above all it seems, in the United States. Haiti seems to provoke fear from white North Americans."

Katherine Smith is one American who is not afraid. The young ethnographer has been coming here since 1999 to research voodoo and travels to poor neighborhoods using public transportation.

"The worst that has happened was being pickpocketed during Carnival, but that could happen anywhere," said Ms. Smith. "How little I've been targeted is remarkable given how visible I am."

But many aid workers, diplomats, and other foreigners live behind walls and concertina wire.

And except for emigres visiting from abroad, tourism is near nonexistent. "It's so frustrating," says Jacqui Labrom, a former missionary who has organized guided tours of Haiti since 1997.

She says street demonstrations are easily avoided and rarely result in violence. "In the '50s and '60s, Haiti taught Cuba, Jamaica, the Dominican Republic how to do tourism.... If we didn't have such bad press, it would make such a difference."(c) Copyright 2008. The Christian Science Monitor

Credit: Reed Lindsay Contributor to The Christian Science Monitor

Subject: Violence; Police; Drug trafficking; Demonstrations & protests; Economic impact; Image; Tourism -- Haiti; Social conditions & trends -- Haiti

Location: Haiti

Publication title: The Christian Science Monitor; Boston, Mass.

Pages: 4

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jun 19, 2008

Dateline: PortAuPrince, Haiti

Section: WORLD

Publisher: The Christian Science Publishing Society (d/b/a "The Christian Science Monitor"), trusteeship under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Place of publication: Boston, Mass.

Country of publication: United States, Boston, Mass.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 08827729

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 405559530

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/405559530?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright The Christian Science Monitor Jun 19, 2008

Last updated: 2017-11-02

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; The Christian Science Monitor

Document 197 of 313

Events in Westchester

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Jun 22, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Comedy.

Links: Find it @ FSU

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Comedy

ELMSFORD Westchester Broadway Theater Battle of the Sexes Comedy Night. Tuesday at 8 p.m. $73. Westchester Broadway Theater, 75 Clearbrook Road. (914) 592-2222; www.broadwaytheatre.com.

Music and Dance

ANNANDALE-ON-HUDSON Richard B. Fisher Center for the Performing Arts Prokofiev’s “Romeo and Juliet,” presented by Mark Morris Dance Group. July 4 through 9. $20 to $75. Richard B. Fisher Center for the Performing Arts, 30 Campus Road. (845) 758-6822; www.fishercenter.bard.edu.

COLD SPRING Chapel of Our Lady Restoration John Stetch, piano, performs selections of jazz, classical and folk. June 29 at 4 p.m. Free. Chapel of Our Lady Restoration, 45 Market Street. (845) 265-5537; www.chapelofourlady.com.

ELMSFORD Westchester Broadway Theater “Abba Platinum,” a tribute. Monday at 8 p.m. $73. Westchester Broadway Theater, 75 Clearbrook Road. (914) 592-2222; www.broadwaytheatre.com.

KATONAH Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts Caramoor International Music Festival: Chatham County Line, bluegrass. June 22 at 4:30 p.m. $17.50 to $40. Festival Performer’s Showcase I: Dmitry Kousov, cello; Jeewon Park, piano. Wednesday at 11 a.m. $17. International Music Festival: Hugo Wolf Quartett. Thursday at 7:30 p.m. $15 and $25. Joyce Yang, piano, performs works by Liebermann, Brahms, Vine, Bach and Schumann. Friday at 8 p.m. $25 and $35. The Orchestra of St. Luke’s with Peter Serkin, piano, perform works by Bach and Mozart. June 28 at 8 p.m. $15 to $65. The Orchestra of St. Luke’s with Vivica Genaux, mezzo-soprano, and Max Barros, piano, perform works by Guarnieri, Revueltas and de Falla. June 29 at 4:30 p.m. $17.50 to $40. Fourth of July Week Extravaganza: Festival Performer’s Showcase II, featuring the Bear Cats Dixieland Jazz Band, a tour of the House Museum and a lunch buffet. Reservations required. July 2 at 11 a.m. $17, performance and tour; $43, includes lunch. Trio Solisti performs works by Ravel, Piazzolla and Mussorgsky. July 3 at 7:30 p.m. $15 and $25. The John Pizzarelli Quartet performs classic standards, ballads and jazz. July 4 at 8 p.m. $25 to $75. Carnival in Venice — All Vivaldi: Featuring the Orchestra of St. Luke’s with Elizabeth Mann, flute; Stephen Taylor and Melanie Feld, oboe; and Marc Goldberg, bassoon. July 5 at 8 p.m. $15 to $65. Tango for the Family: Featuring the Sonidos Latinos Festival Ensemble with Jamie Bernstein, narrator, and Marco Granados, flute. July 6 at 4:30 p.m. $15. Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, 149 Girdle Ridge Road. (914) 232-5035; www.caramoor.com.

LARCHMONT Watercolor Cafe Steve Forbert, folk. Wednesday at 8 p.m. $25. Glenda Davenport Quartet, jazz. Thursday at 7:30 p.m. Free. Doug Munro Trio, jazz. Friday at 9 p.m. Free. Ralph Lalama Trio, jazz. June 28 at 9 p.m. Free. Watercolor Cafe, 2094 Boston Post Road. (914) 834-2213; www.watercolorcafe.net.

NEW ROCHELLE Mooney-Hancock Arts Center The New Rochelle Opera presents “Aida,” by Verdi. Through June 22. $27 and $29. Mooney-Hancock Arts Center, 1354 North Avenue. (914) 576-0365; www.nropera.org.

POUGHKEEPSIE Bardavon Opera House Madeleine Peyroux, jazz vocalist. Friday at 8 p.m. $37 and $42. Bardavon Opera House, 35 Market Street. (845) 473-5288; www.bardavon.org.

PURCHASE Purchase College “The Spirit of Improvisation,” Mark Tondi, piano, performs works by Chopin. Tuesday at 7:30 p.m. Suggested donation, $20. Purchase College, 735 Anderson Hill Road. (914) 251-5925; www.purchase.edu.

TARRYTOWN Tarrytown Music Hall Switchfoot, rock. Thursday at 8 p.m. $33. Bebel Gilberto, Brazilian jazz and pop. Friday at 8 p.m. $33 to $48. Dr. John and the Lower 911, blues-fusion. June 28 at 8 p.m. $38 to $65. Tarrytown Music Hall, 13 Main Street. (877) 840-0457; www.tarrytownmusichall.org.

YORKTOWN HEIGHTS Yorktown Community and Cultural Center The Taconic Opera presents “Otello,” Verdi. In English with supertitles. Through June 22. $32 to $42. www.taconicopera.org. Jenna’s Dream presents the Saline Youth Fiddlers with Art Halperin. July 1 at 7:30 p.m. $5. jennasdream.org. Yorktown Community and Cultural Center, 1974 Commerce Street. (914) 245-3415.

For Children

ANNANDALE-ON-HUDSON The Richard B. Fisher Center for the Performing Arts “Peter and the Wolf,” presented by Seezer Ensemble with Fergus O’Farrell, narrator. July 5 through 13. $5 to $25. The Richard B. Fisher Center for the Performing Arts, (845) 758-7900; www.fishercenter.bard.edu.

KATONAH Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts Tango for Tots: Featuring dancers with Kate Kresek, violin; Hector del Curto, bandoneon; and Gustavo Casenave, piano. Children under 6. July 6 at 4:30 p.m. $15. Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts, 149 Girdle Ridge Road. (914) 232-5035; www.caramoor.com.

PLEASANTVILLE Jacob Burns Film Center “Never Cry Wolf,” directed by Carroll Ballard. Through June 22. “Benji the Hunted,” written and directed by Joe Camp. June 28 and 29. $6 to $10. Jacob Burns Film Center, 364 Manville Road. (914) 747-5555; www.burnsfilmcenter.org.

Outdoors

CROTON-ON-HUDSON Croton Point Nature Center Clearwater Festival: Great Hudson River Revival. Featuring music, dance, crafts, tall ships and environmental education. Through June 22. $35 and $60. Croton Point Nature Center, Croton Point Park. (914) 864-7000; www.clearwaterfestival.org.

CROTON-ON-HUDSON Van Cortlandt Manor Independence Day parade with singing, dancing, food and games. Fourth of July, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. $6 to $12; children under 5, free. Van Cortlandt Manor, 525 South Riverside Avenue. (914) 631-8200; www.hudsonvalley.org.

NEW ROCHELLE Hudson Park The Westchester Chamber Orchestra performs classical music and favorites from film and Broadway. Fourth of July at 6:30, fireworks at 9:30 p.m. Free. Hudson Park, Hudson Park Road. (914) 654-4926; www.westchesterchamberorchestra.org.

OSSINING Teatown Lake Reservation Habitat Safari: Forest Frolic, featuring flora and fauna education and hiking. Registration required. June 22 at 1 p.m. $5; members, free. Teatown Lake Reservation, 1600 Spring Valley Road. (914) 762-2912; www.teatown.org.

RHINEBECK Dutchess County Fairgrounds The Hudson Valley Philharmonic. Fourth of July at 7 p.m., fireworks at dusk. $6 to $40. Dutchess County Fairgrounds, 6550 Spring Brook Avenue. (845) 876-4001; www.dutchessfair.com.

VALHALLA Kensico Dam Plaza The Westchester Philharmonic with Alondra de la Parra, guest conductor, followed by fireworks. July 3 at 8 p.m. Free. Kensico Dam Plaza, north end of the Bronx River Parkway. (914) 864-7275; www.westchestergov.com.

Spoken Word

PEEKSKILL Hudson Valley Center for Contemporary Art “Witness to Our Times,” Richard Falco, photographer, lecture and image presentation on documentary work. June 29 at 3 p.m. $5 to $10. Hudson Valley Center for Contemporary Art, 1701 Main Street. (914) 788-0100; www.hvcca.com.

Theater

ELMSFORD Westchester Broadway Theater “Beauty and the Beast,” musical. Through Aug. 2. $78. Westchester Broadway Theater, 75 Clearbrook Road. (914) 592-2222; www.broadwaytheatre.com.GARRISON Boscobel Restoration “Cymbeline,” presented by the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival. Through Aug. 30. “Twelfth Night,” presented by the Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival. Through Aug. 31. $28 to $44. Hours: Saturdays and Sundays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Boscobel Restoration, 1601 Route 9D. (845) 265-9575; www.hvshakespeare.org.

NEW ROCHELLE New Rochelle High School “The Blessing of a Broken Heart,” drama by Sherri Mandell, adapted by Todd Salovey. June 22 at 8 p.m. $36. New Rochelle High School, 265 Clove Road. (888) 622-5629 ; nrhs.nred.org.

SCARSDALE Edgemont High School Theater “The Dinner Party,” dramatic comedy by Neil Simon. Through June 29. $10 to $18. Edgemont High School Theater, 200 White Oak Lane. (914) 525-8842; www.gctstage.org.

Museums and Galleries

ANNANDALE-ON-HUDSON Hessel Museum of Art, Bard College “I’ve Got Something in My Eye,” collaborative exhibition with Liesbeth Bik and Jos van der Pol. Through Sept. 7. Wednesdays through Sundays, 1 to 5 p.m. Hessel Museum of Art, Bard College, Annandale-on-Hudson. (845) 758-7598; www.bard.edu/ccs/museum.

ANNANDALE-ON-HUDSON Bard College “Personal Protocols and Other Preferences,” multimedia exhibition with Michael Beutler, Esra Ersen and Kirstine Roepstorff. Through Sept. 7. Wednesdays through Sundays, 1 to 5 p.m. Bard College, Center for Curatorial Studies. (845) 758-7598; www.bard.edu.

BEACON Dia:Beacon “Trajectories,” paintings by Agnes Martin. Through Sept. 1. $7 and $10, members and children under 12, free. Thursdays through Mondays, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dia:Beacon, 3 Beekman Street. (845) 440-0100; www.diabeacon.org.

BEACON MJ Art “Oils, Acrylics and Monotypes,” by Alan Bull. Through Aug. 2. Saturdays and Sundays, noon to 6 p.m., or by appointment. MJ Art, 177 Main Street. (845) 831-2728; www.mjartinc.com.

COLD SPRING Putnam County Historical Society “The West Point Foundry: Unearthing the Past, Forging a Future,” history, industrial archaeology and environmental renewal at the site of the former foundry. Through Dec. 14. $5; seniors, $2; members and children under 7, free. Wednesdays through Sundays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Putnam County Historical Society, 63 Chestnut Street. (845) 265-4010; www.pchs-fsm.org.

DOBBS FERRY Upstream Gallery “Dorothy Ehret Hines — Recent Work,” paintings. “Mitchell Goldberg — Interaction,” works in watercolor, etching, cast resin and glass fusion. Both through June 22. Saturday and Sunday, 12:30 to 5:30 p.m. Upstream Gallery, 26b Main Street. (914) 674-8548; www.upstreamgallery.com.

GARRISON Garrison Art Center “Suzanna Frosch: Sculptures and Constructions.” “Diana Carulli: Boustrophone,” exploring labyrinths and Greek myth. Both through June. Daily, noon to 5 p.m. Garrison Art Center, 23 Garrison’s Landing. (845) 424-3960; garrisonartcenter.org.

HUDSON Nicole Fiacco Gallery “The Rain, the Park and Other Things,” group exhibition that examines nature and the use of the handmade. Through July 12. Thursdays through Mondays, noon to 6 p.m. Nicole Fiacco Gallery, 506 Warren Street. (518) 828-5090; www.nicolefiaccogallery.com.

IRVINGTON Irvington Public Library “Portraits in Pastel” by Kumiko Buller. Through June 28. Hours: Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Tuesdays and Thursdays, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Irvington Public Library, 12 South Astor Street. (914) 591-7840; www.irvingtonlibrary.org.

KATONAH Katonah Museum of Art Photographs by Margaret Fox. “Here’s the Thing: The Single Object Still Life,” paintings, sculptures, drawings and prints. “Jenny Lynn: The Object Is Art,” photographs and sculpture. All through June 29. $3 and $5. Hours: Tuesdays through Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sundays, noon to 5 p.m. Katonah Museum of Art, 134 Jay Street. (914) 232-9555; www.katonahmuseum.org.

LARCHMONT Anelle Gandelman Fine Art “Uncommon Ground,” group show. Through Aug. 9. Hours: Wednesdays through Fridays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturdays, noon to 5 p.m. Anelle Gandelman Fine Art, 1989 Palmer Avenue. (914) 840-4151; www.anellegandelman.com.

LARCHMONT Pgartventure Gallery Works by Fay Lansner. Through July 4. By appointment only. Pgartventure Gallery, 2130A Boston Post Road. (914) 834-5100; pgartventure.com.

NEW PALTZ Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art, at SUNY “A Discerning Vision: Photographs From the Collection of Howard Greenberg.” Through June 22. “Beat and Beyond: Photographs by Allen Ginsberg.” Through July 6. “All Hot and Bothered: Photographs From the Center for Photography at Woodstock.” Friday through Sept. 28. Hours: Tuesdays through Fridays, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays, 1 to 5 p.m. Samuel Dorsky Museum of Art, SUNY New Paltz. (845) 257-3844; www.newpaltz.edu/museum.

NEW ROCHELLE Third Rail Studio “Smashed,” works by Gregg Hill. Through June 28. Thursdays and Saturdays, noon to 6 p.m., or by appointment. Third Rail Studio, 49 Plain Avenue. (914) 712-9831; www.3rdrailstudio.com.

NORTH SALEM Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden “Erasing Borders,” mixed-media group show featuring artists who have origins in India. “Veiled Ornaments,” works by Mari Ogihara. “United Hearts,” works by Chika Hiraoka. All through Sept. 6. $5, adults; $4, seniors; members and children under 12, free. Wednesdays through Saturdays, noon to 4 p.m. Hammond Museum and Japanese Stroll Garden, 28 Deveau Road. (914) 669-5033; www.hammondmuseum.org.

PEEKSKILL Flat Iron Gallery John Plunkett, oil pastels and watercolor landscapes. Through June 29. Thursdays through Sundays, 12 p.m. to 6 p.m., or by appointment. Flat Iron Gallery, 105 South Division Street. (914) 734-1894; www.flatiron.qpg.com.

PEEKSKILL Hudson Valley Center for Contemporary Art “Mount Maslow,” sculpture by Folkert de Jong. Through July 1. “Size Matters: XXL,” large-scale paintings by 31 artists. Through July 27. $2 to $5; members, free. Chris Jones, sculptural installation. Through Aug. 17. Free. Saturdays and Sundays, noon to 6 p.m., and by appointment. Hudson Valley Center for Contemporary Art, 1701 Main Street. (914) 788-0100; www.hvcca.com.

POUGHKEEPSIE Locust Grove Exhibition and self-guided tour featuring original carriages and farm equipment. Through Dec. 31. $5 and $9. Daily, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Locust Grove, 2683 South Road (Route 9). (845) 454-4500; www.lgny.org.

POUGHKEEPSIE Vassar College “Facebook: Images of People in Photographs From the Collection,” examines the photographic portrait over eight decades. Friday through Aug. 10. Hours: Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sundays, 1 to 5 p.m. Vassar College, Frances Lehman Loeb Art Center. (845) 437-5632; fllac.vassar.edu.

PURCHASE Neuberger Museum of Art “African Art and Culture: Selections From the Collection.” “Outdoor Sculpture From the Permanent Collection,” modern and contemporary art throughout the Purchase College campus. “Reframing American Art: Selections From the Roy R. Neuberger Collection.” All through December 2009. “Future Tense: Reshaping the Landscape,” a critical look at the environment. Through July 20. “Multiplicity: The Art of the Furniture Prototype,” group exhibition featuring works by furniture makers, artists, architects and industrial designers. Through Sept. 14. $3 and $5. Tuesdays through Sundays, noon to 5 p.m. Neuberger Museum of Art, 735 Anderson Hill Road. (914) 251-6100; www.neuberger.org.

RYE Rye Free Reading Room “Connie Freid: Inspirations,” mixed media exhibition. Through Friday. Hours: Mondays and Fridays, 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.; Tuesdays through Thursdays, 9:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturdays, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sundays, noon to 4 p.m. Rye Free Reading Room, 1061 Boston Post Road. (914) 967-0480; www.ryelibrary.org.

SHADY Elena Zang Gallery Donald Elder, paintings. Through Thursday. Daily, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Elena Zang Gallery, 3671 Route 212. (845) 679-5432; elenazang.com.

WHITE PLAINS Arts Exchange “Local Growing Conditions,” group exhibition. Through July 22. Tuesdays through Saturdays, noon to 5 p.m. Arts Exchange, 31 Mamaroneck Avenue. (914) 428-4220; www.westarts.com.

WOODSTOCK Galerie B. M. G. Josephine Sacabo, works from “Nocturnes” and “Geometry of Echoes.” Through June 30. Fridays through Mondays, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and by appointment. Galerie B. M. G., 12 Tannery Brook Road. (845) 679-0027; www.galeriebmg.com.

YONKERS Hudson River Museum “Space Is the Place,” explores the potential of space exploration. Through Sept. 7. $3 and $5. Hours: Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays and Sundays, noon to 5 p.m.; Fridays, noon to 8 p.m. Hudson River Museum, 511 Warburton Avenue. (914) 963-4550; www.hrm.org.

Subject: Piano; Art galleries & museums; Independence Day; Cultural centers; Contemporary art; Performing arts centers; African art; Watercolor painting; Art exhibits; Opera houses; Theater; Music festivals; Tango; Jazz

Location: Hudson River Hudson Valley

Company / organization: Name: Caramoor Center for Music & the Arts; NAICS: 711310; Name: Purchase College; NAICS: 611310; Name: Westchester Broadway Theater; NAICS: 711310; Name: Locust Grove; NAICS: 712110, 712120; Name: Hudson River Museum; NAICS: 712110; Name: Vassar College; NAICS: 611310; Name: Jacob Burns Film Center; NAICS: 512131

Identifier / keyword: Art Westchester Broadway Theater Independence Day (US) (July 4) Fisher, Richard B Putnam County (NY) Westchester County (NY) Music Classical Music Wolf, Hugo Morris, Mark, Dance Group Chatham (Mass) Jazz Abba Venice (Italy) Sculpture Bach, Johann Sebastian Colleges and Universities Serkin, Peter Culture Caramoor Center for Music and the Arts Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus Folk Music Orchestra of St Luke's Dutchess County (NY) New Rochelle Opera Caramoor International Music Festival Genaux, Vivica Brazil Ravel, Maurice Joseph Theater Taconic Opera Yorktown (Va) Hudson River Musical Instruments Mussorgsky, Modest Petrovich Burns, Jacob, Film Center Scarsdale (NY) Westchester Chamber Orchestra Pizzarelli, John Bard Music Festival Greece Fireworks Verdi, Giuseppe Hudson Valley Philharmonic Peyroux, Madeleine Irvington (NJ) Westchester Philharmonic Education and Schools New Paltz (NY) Opera Hudson Valley Center for Contemporary Art Chopin, Frederic Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival Gilberto, Bebel Japan Edgemont High School India Dr John Africa Bard College Ballard, Carroll Dia: Beacon White Plains (NY) Camp, Joe de la Parra, Alondra Yonkers (NY) HISTORICAL SOCIETY United States Military Academy Simon, Neil Garrison Art Center Martin, Agnes Fox, Margaret Katonah Museum of Art Lynn, Jenny Dorsky, Samu el, Museum of Art Ginsberg, Allen THIRD RAIL Plunkett, John hammond museum Vassar College Jones, Chris Facebook.com Neuberger, Roy R Loeb, Frances Lehman, Art Center Neuberger Museum of Art READING ROOM Arts Exchange Hudson River Museum

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jun 22, 2008

Section: nyregion

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2221923582

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2221923582?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-09

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 198 of 313

A Splash of Color, Culture

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: The Washington Post ; Washington, D.C. [Washington, D.C]26 June 2008: T.3.

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Abstract:

Hundreds of masqueraders in colorful costumes portraying themes of fantasy and original concepts will dance to the sounds of calypso, soca, reggae and steel pan.

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Full text:

A rhythmic, glittering theater of the street will unfold along Georgia Avenue when the 16th annual D.C. Caribbean Carnival kicks off Saturday. The parade event starts at Missouri and Georgia avenues at 11 a.m. and goes on until 5 p.m., ending at Euclid Street. Hundreds of masqueraders in colorful costumes portraying themes of fantasy and original concepts will dance to the sounds of calypso, soca, reggae and steel pan. "This reminds me so much of being back home in Trinidad and Tobago," said Lystra Hinds, information officer of the Trinidad and Tobago Embassy in Washington. "I'm temporarily relieved from the nostalgic feeling of not being back home during the carnival season."

Jackie Cumberbatch, a costume designer for more than 40 years who lives in Silver Spring, said: "I love to mesmerize onlookers with my spectacular designs. 'Mas-Mas,' my presentation for this year, shows elaborate pieces with intricate detail." ("Mas" is short for masqueraders and is also the word that Caribbean people often use for carnival.)

Math teacher Patrice Francis of Hyattsville, one of the few female costume designers and bandleaders, said, "It's hard work, but I enjoy every minute of it." Her presentation, "A Brazilian Dream," depicts the native dance and natural resources of Brazil. "I've used an array of bright colors, large feathers and costume jewelry," she said.

The weekend also includes activities for children, performers, Caribbean cuisine, arts, crafts and souvenirs.

The festival is in Benjamin Banneker Park at Barry Place, Saturday and Sunday from noon to 7 p.m. Admission is $10 or free for children under 12 and seniors.

For additional information, visit www.dccaribbeancarnival.org or call 202-726-2204.

-- LYSTRA LASHLEY

Subject: Costume design

Publication title: The Washington Post; Washington, D.C.

Pages: T.3

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jun 26, 2008

Section: MONTGOMERY EXTRA

Publisher: WP Company LLC d/b/a The Washington Post

Place of publication: Washington, D.C.

Country of publication: United States, Washington, D.C.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 01908286

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 410210150

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/410210150?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright The Washington Post Company Jun 26, 2008

Last updated: 2017-11-02

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 199 of 313

Spare Times: For Children

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Jun 27, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

FOR CHILDREN.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

FOR CHILDREN

AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY (Saturday through Thursday) Creatures that creep, crawl, slither and even swim are definitely the museum’s stars this season. The popular 2006 exhibition “Lizards & Snakes: Alive!” has reopened, with more than 60 breathing (and hissing) examples, from five continents. The museum is also showing a new Imax film, “Sea Monsters: A Prehistoric Adventure,” playing every half-hour from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Its subject is not the monsters of myth but very real species, like Dolichorhynchops and Styxosaurus, which swam the oceans while T. rex walked the earth. Open daily, 10 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., at Central Park West and 79th Street, (212) 769-5200, amnh.org. Tickets to special exhibitions and Imax films (includes museum admission): $22; $16.50 for students and 60+; $13 for 12 and younger.

‘ARCHAEOLOGY ZONE: DISCOVERING TREASURES FROM PLAYGROUNDS TO PALACES’ (Sunday through Thursday) Children will step into the shoes of an explorer like Indiana Jones in this exhibition at the Jewish Museum, but the adventures will be purely scholarly. Still, there is plenty of excitement in analyzing artifacts like a jar handle, a clay jug and a bangle and figuring out the purpose behind ancient pieces like a Greek helmet and a bull-shaped vessel. This interactive show also includes a recreated room from the Ottoman period (about 1900), where young archaeologists can dress in costume. (Through June 15, 2009.) Sunday through Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., and Thursday to 8 p.m., 1109 Fifth Avenue, at 92nd Street, (212) 423-3200, thejewishmuseum.org. Free with admission: $12; $10 for 65+; $7.50 for students; free for under 12 and members.

THE CHILDREN’S THEATER COMPANY (Saturday and Sunday) In New York you’re never too little for the stage, and this company welcomes actors as young as 7, as well as those much older. Its latest showcase features several short musicals. “The Bread and Butter Battle” and “Yertle & Myrtle , the Tyrant Turtles” are both Dr. Seuss adaptations dealing — in Seussian fashion — with power and its exploitation. “Rescue Me” uses popular song to deal with another aspect of power: how American women acquired it. (Through July 20.) At 4:30 p.m., Bahai Unity Center, 53 East 11th Street, Greenwich Village, childrenstheatercompany.org. Reservations required: (212) 633-6629. $12.

‘CINDERELLA’ (Saturday) Forget about a wicked stepmother and a pumpkin-turned-coach. This new production by Youth on Target Theater Company presents a version drawn from the Italian tradition, in which Cinderella’s mother is very much alive, and Cinderella is not so much persecuted as immobilized by grief. (Her father has died.) For ages 7 and older, this retelling will run through July 27 in different Brooklyn locations. At 2 p.m., Chez Bushwick, 304 Boerum Street, (212) 352-3101, youthontarget.org; $15; $10 for 12 and under.

CIRCUS SUNDAYS IN JUNE (Sunday) Brooklyn not only has a floating concert hall (Bargemusic), it also has a floating circus. This attraction, on board the Waterfront Museum and Showboat Barge, presents different entertainers every Sunday of the month. This final Sunday’s roster includes the oddball juggler Will Shaw; Dikki Ellis, a tightrope-walking clown; and Kenichi Ebna, a master robo-dancer from Japan. At 1 and 4 p.m., Conover Street and the waterfront, Red Hook, (877) 238-5596, waterfrontmuseum.org. Tickets: in advance, $16; $10 for under 12. At the door, $18 and $12.

CROSS-GENERATION CHESS TOURNAMENT (Sunday) The chessboard is common ground in this program, which brings together children from kindergarten through high school with elderly adults. Players of all levels are invited for games, live classical music (by the violinist Vladimir Tsypin) and, most important, lively conversation. Admission and a kosher lunch are free. From noon to 5 p.m., JCC in Manhattan, seventh floor, 334 Amsterdam Avenue, at 76th Street. Registration (optional): (917) 822-3141, crossgenerationchess.com.

‘DARWIN’S GARDEN: AN EVOLUTIONARY ADVENTURE’ (Friday through Sunday) Long before children study the theory of natural selection in school, they can become acquainted with its principles in this special display, a junior version of the larger Darwin show that recently closed at the New York Botanical Garden. This display, in the Everett Children’s Adventure Garden, allows young visitors to enter a re-creation of Darwin’s laboratory, see a model of the ship used in his travels and emulate his research, including exploring various bogs and creating a herbarium specimen using the primrose. From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Bronx River Parkway (Exit 7W) and Fordham Road, Bedford Park, the Bronx, (718) 817-8700, nybg.org. Admission, including the Everett garden and all displays: $13; $11 for students and 62+; $5 for ages 2 to 12; free for under 2.

‘THE GAZILLION BUBBLE SHOW’ (Friday through Sunday, and Wednesday and Thursday) Children love bubbles, and Ana Yang, in this interactive show, promises not just a gazillion but also some of the largest ever blown (her husband, Fan Yang, holds the world record), along with light effects and lasers. Audience members may even find themselves in bubbles of their own. (Through January.) Friday at 2 and 5 p.m.; Saturday at 11 a.m. and 2 and 7 p.m.; Sunday at noon and 3 p.m.; Wednesday at 2 p.m.; Thursday at 2 and 7 p.m., New World Stages, 340 West 50th Street, Clinton, (212) 239-6200, gazillionbubbleshow.com; $41.50 to $86.50.

‘IT’S A BEE, HONEY!’ (Sunday) Children are invited to join the hive in this outdoor production, billed as a “musical puppet circus.” Created by Erin Orr and the performer known as Baby Dee, the show illustrates the life cycle of bees in a humorous combination of nature documentary and sports event. (The drone bees, in their race to the queen, are interviewed by sportscasters.) On Saturday from 10 a.m. to noon Ms. Orr will hold a free puppet workshop at the Abrons Arts Center for children 5 to 10 who would like to play worker bees (parents must also attend); the participants will then rehearse on Sunday at 1:30 p.m. Performance at 3 p.m., rain or shine, the Abrons Arts Center sculpture garden, 466 Grand Street, at Pitt Street, Lower East Side, (212) 598-0400, abronsartscenter.org; free.

‘MAGIC: THE SCIENCE OF ILLUSION’ (Saturday through Thursday) Harry Potter may rely on a wand and a book of spells, but real performing magicians base their acts on the natural, not the supernatural. This exhibition shows how much they depend on the laws of science, creating several illusions (including mind-reading and levitation) and using video testimony from mavens like Penn & Teller and Doug Henning to explain the physics, psychology and math behind the tricks. (Through Sept. 14.) At the New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th Street, Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens, (718) 699-0005, nyscience.org. Hours: Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Monday, 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Tuesday through Thursday, 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free with admission: $11; $8 for ages 2 through 17, students and 62+; free for under 2. Also free this Sunday from 10 to 11 a.m.

NEW YORK FAMILY ARTS FESTIVAL (Friday through Sunday) This city is made up of many cultures, and this annual event explores several in each of three weekends. The concluding festivities start on Friday at 7 p.m. with “Resurrection of a Swan,” a love story told through music, dance and poetry, including the lyrics of gospel, jazz and opera works. On Saturday from 2 to 6 p.m. families can enjoy an Italian Cultural Village, with workshops devoted to folk dances, the tarantella (a children’s workshop is at 4:10) and commedia dell’arte. On Sunday at 2 p.m. the bandleader Johnny Colón will be interviewed and perform with his orchestra. At the Riverside Theater, Riverside Drive at 122nd Street, Morningside Heights, theriversidetheatre.org. Free, but reservations requested: (212) 870-6784.

‘NETTING CHANGE THROUGH SPOKEN WORD’ (Saturday) Ne Ne Ali is only 10, but she has already developed a talent and a social conscience. A spoken-word artist and rapper, she is the organizer and headliner of this event, which will raise funds for Nothing but Nets (nothingbutnets.net), a campaign to combat malaria in Africa by purchasing mosquito netting for beds. The evening will also include world music by the band the Earthman Experience. At 6 p.m., Middle School 142, 3750 Baychester Avenue, near Schefflin Avenue, Wakefield, the Bronx, (614) 638-9113; free with a donation.

NEW-YORK HISTORICAL SOCIETY (Saturday and Sunday) Take your children to the museum to watch TV? It may sound heretical, but here it makes sense: the historical society is screening the complete HBO mini-series “John Adams,” one episode each Sunday through Aug. 3. The first installment was shown last Sunday, but it’s easy to catch up, and families can enter a raffle to win the entire set on DVD. The screenings are being held in conjunction with the exhibition “French Founding Father: Lafayette’s Return to Washington’s America,” as is the society’s “Living History Days” program. Saturday is one of those days, with re-enactors portraying Revolutionary soldiers — the Fourth New York Regiment — visiting, starting at 10 a.m. At 170 Central Park West, at 77th Street, (212) 873-3400, nyhistory.org. Free with admission: $10; $7 for educators and 65+; $6 for students; free for 12 and under and members.

‘PICTURE THIS!’ (Friday and Monday) Children are often adorable in front of the camera, but put them behind it, and they can produce fascinating work. This exhibition displays photography, animation and documentary video by students in elementary, middle and high schools in all five boroughs of New York. The pieces were done during residency programs sponsored by Magic Box Productions, an arts education organization that sends teaching artists into the schools. From 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., the Gallery at 180 Maiden Lane, between Front and South Streets, Lower Manhattan, (914) 630-0256, magicboxproductions.org; free.

‘PRESERVATION DETECTIVES’ FAMILY TOURS (Sunday) The Lower East Side has transformed over the last century, but the past still comes vibrantly alive in many of its corners. One is the Eldridge Street Synagogue, the landmark 1887 building where many Jewish immigrants worshiped. Now the Museum at Eldridge Street, the organization that recently restored the synagogue, is leading a family tour every Sunday. Children 5 to 10 can view artifacts, learn neighborhood and cultural lore and role-play a little history, including making a copy of a stained-glass window and putting together a Yiddish newspaper. At 2 p.m., 12 Eldridge Street, between Canal and Division Streets, (212) 219-0302, eldridgestreet.org; $10; $8 for 65+; $6 for ages 5 through 18.

‘RAINBOW ADVENTURES’ (Saturday) Artists have been chasing rainbows since time immemorial, and children can join them in this workshop at the Rubin Museum of Art. Working with museum educators, young visitors will look through the galleries for works with rainbows, which have special significance in Himalayan culture. Then they will make their own rainbow-inspired creations. From 2 to 3:30 p.m., 150 West 17th Street, Chelsea, (212) 620-5000, Ext. 344, rmanyc.org. Registration recommended. Free with museum admission: $10; $7 for students, 65+ and neighbors (ZIP codes 10011 and 10001); free for under 12 and members.

STATE FAIR MEADOWLANDS (Friday through Thursday) This annual event captures the spirit of an old-fashioned state fair only a short drive from the city. This year’s attractions include the Marcan Tiger Show, which uses live animals to educate the public about the plight of Bengal tigers; the Nerveless Nocks, a Swiss group doing aerial acts that are nerve-racking for the audience if not for them; and the Bantu Wizards Acrobatic Troupe, tumblers and dancers from Kenya. (Through July 13.) Friday, 6 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Saturday, 2 p.m. to 2 a.m.; Sunday, 2 p.m. to midnight; Monday through Thursday, 6 p.m. to midnight. At Giants Stadium Fairgrounds, East Rutherford, N.J., (973) 450-1073, njfair.com; $9; $6 for 12 and under; free for children under 34 inches tall.

TENNIS LESSONS (Monday) Aspiring Venus Williamses and Andy Roddicks can get into the swing of things at this free summer-long program, sponsored by the New York Junior Tennis League. Open to children ages 6 through 18, the sessions, held in all five boroughs, include not only tennis instruction but also field trips and tournaments. Tennis equipment is available for loan; parents must register their children onsite. More information and a full list of locations: (347) 417-8157, nyjtl.org.

‘THE TRAGEDY OF MACBETH’ (Friday and Monday) O.K., so it’s not what you’d call a children’s play. But the setting is undeniably fun and family-friendly — at Castle Clinton in Battery Park — and the actors, the members of New York Classical Theater, change locations with every scene, so the audiences roam the night as much as Macbeth. And perhaps most appealing for budding Shakespeare enthusiasts ages 7 to 13, the theater will offer preperformance workshops in July in which they can learn about the play and act out a scene. Those attending are advised to bring a picnic basket and sneakers. At 7 p.m., Battery Park, Lower Manhattan, (212) 252-4531, newyorkclassical.org; free.

WORD FOR WORD KIDS (Saturday) The words come from books and stories, which are celebrated in this summer series at the Bryant Park Reading Room. This Saturday’s installment, “Brazilian Carnival,” will include Ila Lane Gross reading folklore from her book “Animal Tales.” But the fun, for ages 4 through 10, isn’t just about words: children can make their own rain sticks (percussion instruments), learn the Brazilian carnival dance and frolic to a live drummer. From noon to 1 p.m., Bryant Park, Avenue of the Americas at 40th Street, (212) 768-4242, bryantpark.org; free. LAUREL GRAEBER

Subject: Tournaments & championships; Adventure; Art galleries & museums; Students; Theater companies; Parks & recreation areas; Archaeology; Theater; Actors; Circuses; Workshops

Location: New York

Identifier / keyword: CENTRAL PARK (NYC) Children and Youth American Museum of Natural History Families and Family Life Art Graeber, Laurel Geisel, Theodor Seuss Tennis Imax Corp Greece Theater JEWISH MUSEUM Music New York State Penn, Jillette BREAD AND BUTTER Teller Historic Buildings and Sites GREENWICH VILLAGE (NYC) Bees Henning, Doug Brooklyn (NYC) Chez Bushwick Education and Schools Adams, John Bargemusic Mergers, Acquisitions and Divestitures Japan RED HOOK (NYC) Waterfront Museum Museums Williams, Venus Circuses Manhattan (NYC) New York Botanical Garden Shakespeare, William Amsterdam (Netherlands) Everett Children's Adventure Garden Poetry and Poets Bronx (NYC) New World Stages Oceans Synagogues Abrons Arts Center LOWER EAST SIDE (NYC) Queens (NYC) Folk Music New York Hall of Science New-York Historical Society Africa France Home Box Office Museum at Eldridge Street Washington (DC) Himalayas Rainbow Adventures CHELSEA (NYC) Rubin Museum of Art New York Giants Meadowlands (NJ) New York Junior Tennis League Switzerland Kenya READING ROOM New Jersey BATTERY PARK CITY (NYC) BRYANT PARK (NYC) Brazil

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jun 27, 2008

Section: arts

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2221750377

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2221750377?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-06-27

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 200 of 313

Festival may leave downtown: Riverfront renovation could prompt possibly permanent move

Author: Lawrence, Keith

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune Business News ; Washington [Washington]01 July 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Alternate locations being considered include Yellow Creek Park in Thruston, the Daviess County Lions Club Fairgrounds in Philpot, Owensboro Community & Technical College, Owensboro-Daviess County Regional Airport and Towne Square Mall. "A location change would change the makeup of the festival," said Karen Miller, executive director of the Owensboro-Daviess County Convention & Visitors Bureau, who is chairing the committee looking at the festival's location.

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Full text:  

Jul. 1--After 30 years in downtown Owensboro, the International Bar-B-Q Festival may be moving next year.

Alternate locations being considered include Yellow Creek Park in Thruston, the Daviess County Lions Club Fairgrounds in Philpot, Owensboro Community & Technical College, Owensboro-Daviess County Regional Airport and Towne Square Mall.

It's not the first time the festival has looked at other sites.

Back in 1984, when the festival was five years old, the committee looked at English Park, the airport, the mall and the Sportscenter as alternate locations.

They decided to stay on the riverfront then.

But for at least the next two years, the downtown riverfront will be undergoing $45 million worth of renovations.

And that's likely to mean no room for the festival on Veterans Boulevard.

Moving farther south into the city creates problems because "there isn't ample electrical service on Third Street," said Michelle Wright, festival spokeswoman. "We've gone to using generators for the past few years. But generators cost $1,500 each, and the gas was costing us $600 a day. There's no way we can raise our prices enough to cover that."

Tony Cecil, city operations manager, said the problem originated in the 1990s when the city put utilities underground downtown.

"It looks great," he said. "But it limits what you can do for temporary festivals. We have power in place on Veterans Boulevard, but not on the other streets."

Riverfront construction was supposed to start in May. But the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has yet to issue a permit for the work.

Cecil said the city plans to advertise for bids Sunday. But there is still no timetable for starting construction.

"At a minimum, it will likely be 2011 before the work is finished" and the barbecue festival can be assured of space on Veterans Boulevard, he said.

Wright said being on the river adds ambiance to the festival. English Park, also on the river, isn't large enough to handle the festival, she said.

Few places are. It's grown to fill 14 downtown blocks and, most years, a parking space four blocks away is considered close.

"Parking is one issue," Wright said. "We also need indoor space. We've been using both the RiverPark Center and the Executive Inn. Losing the Executive Inn is already a real big problem. And 99 percent of the places we've looked at have power supply issues."

Is it a downtown event?

Cecil said other issues being studied include: "Should it be downtown? Is it too large? Should it go back to its heritage as a cooking festival without the carnival and all the other things that have been added."

Some people, he said, "think a downtown festival is almost sacred. But there are downtown merchants who don't like it because they say it hurts their business. They say that in private meetings, but they don't want to sound like they don't support the community."

Cecil said he's also hearing concerns that if high-rises are built downtown, people wouldn't have a way to get to their condos during the festival.

"It's almost like sacrilege to talk about change," he said. "But the festival has been changing all along."

A decision on the site will have to be made by the end of August to give the festival committee time to plan the May event, he said.

Changing locations will mean more money for marketing to let tourists know where the festival will be, Wright said.

"If we move away from downtown for two years, we might not be able to come back," she said. "We would have to market the change a second time. We have a limited budget, so we try not to make too many changes."

Cecil said some in city government are concerned about the festival's budget.

"The city had to waive several of the fees it charges this year to help them make their budget," he said.

"A location change would change the makeup of the festival," said Karen Miller, executive director of the Owensboro-Daviess County Convention & Visitors Bureau, who is chairing the committee looking at the festival's location.

"If it does need to move, we'll help them with marketing," she said. "And I feel like the state will too. It's a festival the state is known for."

Whatever happens, Miller said, the community has to make sure the barbecue festival survives and thrives.

"It's our largest festival," she said. "We're known internationally for it. People don't realize how much tourism means to our economy."

The festival, which celebrates the county's barbecue tradition dating back to at least 1834, has drawn visitors from as far away as Australia, Brazil, Canada, Egypt, Germany, Japan, Mexico, Moldavia, the Philippines and South Africa to devour 10 tons of mutton, 5,000 chickens and 1,500 gallons of burgoo on the Saturday before Mother's Day each year.

Crowd estimates have ranged as high as 85,000 in the past.

Cecil said the city hopes to keep Veterans Boulevard open during riverfront construction.

"Our bid package will require the entire street to remain open during this phase of work," he said. "But if the contractor attaches a significant cost for that, we may have to consider other options."

That uncertainty makes it hard for festivals to plan to use the street, Cecil said.

Credit: Messenger-Inquirer, Owensboro, Ky.

Subject: Veterans; Marketing; Festivals; Committees; Budgets

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune Business News; Washington

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jul 1, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 464804799

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/464804799?accountid=4840

Copyright: To see more of the Messenger-Inquirer, or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.messenger-inquirer.com. Copyright (c) 2008, Messenger-Inquirer, Owensboro, Ky. Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Last updated: 2017-10-30

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 201 of 313

Weekend Planner: More than just Red, White & Blue

Author: Wood, Sam

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune Business News ; Washington [Washington]02 July 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Ethnic festivals at Penn's Landing have been given the the weekend off, unless Independence Day can be considered a blow-out celebration of America's heritage. Fifteen musical acts -- featuring well-known names -- perform a host of styles from classic Philly R&B, smooth jazz, and brazilian samba.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

Jul. 2--Fireworks and Fourth of July festivities will dominate the plans of most folks through the weekend, but there's plenty more going on throughout the region.

From the city to the Shore, weather could be a mixed bag on Saturday and Sunday. A chance of thunderstorms threatens to rain on Independence Day parades. Forecasters say it's still too early to tell if fireworks might be washed out. Keep your fingers crossed.

Watch out for traffic gridlock. The Benjamin Franklin Parkway is playing host to the region's biggest events this weekend, so if you're planning to be anywhere near the Art Museum and on four-wheels, make sure it's a skateboard. Capice? That goes for Thursday, too, when the Parkway is the stage for an all-day Latino celebration.

Ethnic festivals at Penn's Landing have been given the the weekend off, unless Independence Day can be considered a blow-out celebration of America's heritage.

Baseball is back in Philadelphia for the weekend with the Phillies squaring off against the Mets. Down the Shore, the Atlantic City Surf defend the sandlot against Nashua tonight, then fend off an invasion by the Jackals of North Jersey for a three game stand.

No need to wait until Friday to get your party on.

Start the holiday early, like this evening, with Wednesday Night Out on South Broad Street under near perfect skies. Fifteen musical acts -- featuring well-known names -- perform a host of styles from classic Philly R&B, smooth jazz, and brazilian samba.

Wednesday

Mostly clear skies tonight with lows in the upper 60s, say forecasters at the National Weather Service.

What's going on tonight:

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Philadelphia

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Music

Wednesday Night Out Live music from 15 artists performing on four stages. Locust Street south to the Kimmel Center. Begins at 6:30 p.m. Among the performers: smooth jazzers Point Blank and Jeff Lorber; Philadelphia International Records stars Bunny Sigler, MFSB, and the surviving Soul Survivors. Look for the recently regrouped PhilaSamba, led by Brazillian ex-pat Orlando Haddad and featuring dancer Fatima Lavor Peters. Click for info

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The Black Crowes Kings of retro-rock in the second gig of a three night stand. Dudes! 9 p.m. TLA, 334 South Street. Click for info.

Rickie Lee Jones Beatnik chanteuse continues her residency at the Painted Bride Arts Center, 230 Vine Street. 8 p.m. Inquirer preview Click for info

Philadelphia Orchestra Night of Mozart. Mann Music Center, 5201 Parkside Ave. Click for info.

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Pennsylvania Suburbs

Derek Trucks & Susan Tedeschi Soul Stew Revival Tour with Scrapomatic. Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square. 8 p.m. Click for info.

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Down the Shore

Baseball

Atlantic City Surf v. Nashua Pride Bernie Robbins Stadium, 545 North Albany Avenue, Atlantic City. 7:05 p.m. Click for info

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Thursday

Sunny skies on Thursday with highs in lower 90s turning to partly cloudy at night with lows near 70s. It'll be slightly cooler at the Shore, but the forecast looks the same, said meteorologist Mark DeLisi at the National Weather Service.

Philadelphia

Fiesta on the Parkway 2:00-8:30 p.m. Celebration of Latino culture on the Benjamin Franklin Parkway with music, food, dancing and scores of activities. Innovative salsa band DLG (Dark Latin Groove) headlines a show at 7:50 p.m. that also features N'Klabe and Daniel Santa Cruz. Several locals are also scheduled, including Jimmy Jorge & the Latin Express, Carnival Yanga, El Danny, Bats N' Rome, El Himo Lola, Alo' Brasil and Dominic Martes. Top professional dance teams La Luna, Fuego, Art in Motion and Bilongo Lodo Dancers perform a 7:30 p.m. Tribute to Salsa. Stiltwalkers, giant puppets and more. NBA Nation tour bus provides hands-on activities and videos of the 50 greatest NBA plays. Click for info.

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Music

The Black Crowes Last in a three night stand. Baby, that was sure hard to handle. Yes, it was. TLA 334 South Street. 9 p.m. Click for info.

Bobby Zankel & the Warriors of the Wonderful Sound Alto saxophonist fronts a 16-piece big band. Tritone, 1508 South St. Click for info.

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Theater

The Color Purple Pulitzer-winning novel by Alice Walker adapted for the stage. Closes 7/13. The Academy of Music, Broad & Locust Sts. Click for info. Click for Inquirer review.

Les Miserables Musical warhorse based on Victor Hugo's tale of class struggle. Closes 8/3. Walnut Street Theatre, 825 Walnut St. Click for info . Click for Inquirer review .

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Sports

Phillies v. New York Mets Citizens Bank Park, Broad St & Pattison Ave. 7:05. Click for info Atlantic City Surf v. New Jersey Jackals Bernie Robbins Stadium, 545 North Albany Avenue, Atlantic City. 7:05 p.m. Click for info

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Pennsylvania Suburbs

Theater

King Lear Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival at DeSales University, 2755 Station Ave., Center Valley. Closes 8/3. Click for info.

Sherlock Holmes & The Case of the Jersey Lily Loosely based on Sherlock Holmes by Gillette & Doyle, with a nod to Oscar Wilde's The Importance of Being Earnest. Closes 7/13. People's Light & Theatre Company, 39 Conestoga Rd., Malvern. Click for info .

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South Jersey

Barbecue on the Battleship Hot dogs, hamburgers, and live music aboard America's most decorated warship. Battleship New Jersey, 1 Riverside Drive. Noon to 3 p.m. Click for info

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Down the Shore

Music

50 Cent & Friends With G-Unit, Lloyd Banks, Tony Yayo, O'Neil McKnight. House of Blues Atlantic City, 801 Boardwalk. 10 p.m. Click for info

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Theater

Private Lives Classic comedy of manners by Noel Coward. Closes 8/16. Cape May Stage, 31 Perry St., Cape May. 8 p.m. Click for info.

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Friday

Keep your fingers crossed. Forecasters are calling for partly sunny skies, but there's be a chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon into the evening. No one is willing to guess if fireworks will be washed out. Highs will be in the upper 80s with lows in the upper 60s. It'll be cooler at the Shore with a similar chance of rain and natural pyrotechnics.

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Philadelphia

Music

Philadelphia Salsa Congress World renowned Salsa dancers, workshops, performance showcases, Salsa competitions, live music, social dancing & more. Pennsylvania Convention Center, 1101 Arch St. Runs through Sunday. Events begin at 9 a.m. Click for info.

Bootsie Barnes Organ Trio Local tenor sax legend blows fireworks of his own. Featuring Lucas Brown on organ and Wayne Smith on drums. Chris' Jazz Cafe, 1421 Sansom St. 8 p.m. Click for info

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Sports

Phillies v. New York Mets Citizens Bank Park, Broad St & Pattison Ave. 7:05. Click for info

Atlantic City Surf v. New Jersey Jackals Bernie Robbins Stadium, 545 North Albany Avenue, Atlantic City. 7:05 p.m. Click for info

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Pennsylvania Suburbs

Events

Kutztown Folk Festival Traditional crafts, food, music & folklife. Kutztown Fairgrounds, Rte. 222, Kutztown. Through Sunday. 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Click for info.

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Down the Shore

Music

Rush Long-lived art-rocking power trio. Has it really been 40 years? Trump Taj Mahal, Etess Arena. 8 p.m. Click for info

Boz Scaggs Blue-eyed soul balladeer. Music Box at the Borgata. 9 p.m. Click for info

Melissa Etheridge Gravel-voiced rocker. Borgata Event Center, Atlantic City. 8 p.m. Click for info

Neville Brothers New Orleans' first family of funk. Hey, Hey, Pockyway! With Jaimoe's Jasssz Band. House of Blues Atlantic City. 9:30 p.m. Click for info

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Saturday

Ack! Partly to mostly cloudy skies with a chance of showers and thunderstorms throughout the day. Highs in the mid-80s. Lows in the upper 60s. Cooler at the shore, but the forecast is largely the same. You can run but you can't hide.

Philadelphia

Music

Seun Kuti Seun Kuti's father, the legendary Afro-beat king Fela Anikulapo Kuti, died in 1997 of AIDS. Though only Seun was only 14 at the time, he decided that his father's band would not die with him. And he would be the one to lead it. World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St. 9 p.m. Click for info.

GospelFest 2008 Featuring Regina Belle, Denise King & Destiny Praise. New Covenant Church of Philadelphia, 7500 Germantown Ave. Through Sunday. Click for info.

Philadelphia Salsa Congress World-renowned Salsa dancers, workshops, performance showcases, Salsa competitions, live music, social dancing & more. Through Sunday. Pennsylvania Convention Center, 1101 Arch St. Click for info.

.

Pennsylvania Suburbs

Events

Blueberry Festival Live music, children's games, hayrides, costumed characters, & blueberry treats. Linvilla Orchards, 137 W. Knowlton Rd., Media. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Click for info

.

Music

Kutztown Folk Festival Meet the Mennonites. Traditional crafts, food, music & folklife. Kutztown Fairgrounds, Rte. 222, Kutztown. Click for info .

Al Bien & Friends Bryn Mawr Twilight Concerts Bryn Mawr Gazebo, 9 S. Bryn Mawr Ave., Bryn Mawr. 7 p.m. Click for info

.

South Jersey

Events

Eyes Wide Open: New Jersey Traveling exhibit of combat boots memorialize NJ soldiers killed in Iraq. Medford Friends Meeting, 14 Union St., Medford. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Click for info.

After-Hours at the Adventure Aquarium Camden Waterfront 1 Aquarium Dr. Click for info.

.

.

Down the Shore

Events

Super Saturday Highlights include shark & stingray feeding and an exotic animal show. Atlantic City Aquarium, 800 N. New Hampshire Ave., Atlantic City. 11 a.m. Click for info.

Whale of a Day Family Festival Fair with live music, craft activities, food and a flea market offering folk art, vintage jewelry and more. Clubhouse Drive and Townbank Road, Cape May. Click for info.

.

Music

Gretchen Wilson Raucous, righteous country singer. House of Blues Atlantic City. 9 p.m. Click for info

.

Comedy

Jay Leno Gab king aspires to amuse. Circus Maximus Theater, Caesars Atlantic City. 7:30 & 10 p.m. Click for info.

Sports

Atlantic City Surf v. New Jersey Jackals Bernie Robbins Stadium, 545 North Albany Avenue, Atlantic City. 7:05 p.m. Click for info.

.

Sunday

A repeat of Saturday's weather forecast. Partly to mostly cloudy skies with a chance of showers and thunderstorms throughout the day. Highs in the mid-80s. Lows in the upper 60s. Cooler at the shore, but the forecast is largely the same. You can run but you can't hide.

.

Philadelphia

Taste of Philadelphia Chowhounds flock to waterfront to sample cuisine from some of the city's finest restaurants. Traditional picnic foods like burgers, corn on the cob and other Independence Day favorites round out the event. Great Plaza at Penn's Landing Columbus Blvd & Chestnut St. Click for info.

Philadelphia Salsa Congress World renowned Salsa dancers, workshops, performance showcases, Salsa competitions, live music, social dancing & more. Pennsylvania Convention Center, 1101 Arch St. From 9 a.m. Click for info.

GospelFest 2008 Includes Regina Belle, Denise King & Destiny Praise. New Covenant Church of Philadelphia, 7500 Germantown Ave. 1 to 6 p.m. Click for info.

.

Sports

Phillies v. New York Mets Citizens Bank Park, Broad St & Pattison Ave. 1:35 p.m. Click for info

.

Pennsylvania Suburbs

Events

Disney Channel Games Party Radio Disney hosts a "pre-party" to advance an upcoming athletic competition that'll be broadcast on the cable channel later this month. Jump rope challenge, push ups for prizes, a mini obstacle course, a soccer dribble challenge. Noon to 2 p.m. Exton Square Mall. Click for info.

.

Theater

Twelfth Night How now, Malvolio! It's Shakespeare's looney comedy. Closes 7/6. Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival at DeSales University, 2755 Station Ave., Center Valley. Click for info.

.

South Jersey

Eyes Wide Open: New Jersey Traveling exhibit of combat boots memorialize NJ soldiers killed in Iraq. Medford Friends Meeting, 14 Union St., Medford. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Click for info.

.

Down the Shore

John Legend R&B crooner plays a venue a tad smaller than the Benjamin Franklin Parkway. Borgata Event Center, Atlantic City. 8 p.m. Click for info

Plain White T's With Kung Fu Girls & Mae. House of Blues Atlantic City, 801 Boardwalk, 8 p.m. Click for info

Ocean City Pops: Our Three Tenors I Jonathan Boyd, Cody Austin & Richard Troxell. The Ocean City Music Pier, Moorlyn & the Boardwalk, Ocean City; 8 p.m. Click for info.

.

Comedy

Two Funny Philly Guys Joe Conklin & Big Daddy Graham. Music Box at the Borgata. 9 p.m. Click for info

.

Sports

Atlantic City Surf v. New Jersey Jackals Bernie Robbins Stadium, 545 North Albany Avenue, Atlantic City. 7:05 p.m. Click for info

.

Contact staff writer Sam Wood at 215-854-2796 or at samwood@phillynews.com.

Credit: The Philadelphia Inquirer

Subject: Weather; Musical theater; Musical performances; Music; Dancers & choreographers

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune Business News; Washington

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jul 2, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 464800231

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/464800231?accountid=4840

Copyright: To see more of The Philadelphia Inquirer, or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.philly.com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu Copyright (c) 2008, The Philadelphia Inquirer Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Last updated: 2017-10-30

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 202 of 313

Once Bitten

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Jul 13, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

The short, wild life of Joe Slowinski, snake wrangler.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Some years ago, in South Africa, I took a course in becoming a game ranger, which included an afternoon devoted to snakes: tracking them, identifying them, treating bites. Our young teacher had a horrendous scar resembling a boot lace running the length of his arm. He enjoyed letting his pets slide around inside his clothes, he explained. One day, as an adder luxuriated in his sleeve, his mother had let the screen door slam behind her. The startled snake bit him. He lived, but a doctor had slit open his swelling arm to keep it from bursting.

Something in the way he told the tale left me feeling not terribly sorry for him. He was still bragging — an exhibitionist with a death wish. I kept getting the same feeling as I read “The Snake Charmer,” Jamie James’s brief biography of Joe Slowinski, a promising herpetologist at the California Academy of Sciences who died at age 38 on a collecting trip to Burma.

No matter how hard James tries to make Slowinski sound roguishly charming, how often he mentions his “disarming, gap-toothed smile,” how earnestly he swears in the epilogue that he sorely feels the loss of someone he never met, I could not help reading between the lines: intentionally or not, he makes his subject sound like a Class A jerk.

It isn’t Slowinski’s redneck genius persona — meeting academy donors in a baggy T-shirt, smuggling reptiles without permits, kicking down his own door to impress a date when he forgets his keys. That was just snake shtick. Nor is it his earlier “starving graduate student my work is everything” ethos, even when he shouts at his not-well-off father for offering to buy him a table so they don’t have to eat while sitting on the stairs. Nor is it the poses James puts him in: the boy Hercules, age 5, brandishing a rat snake “as thick as his own little arm,” or the carnival man dazzling Burmese villagers just before his death, the sun “glinting penny-bright” on his goatee as he “free-handled the dangerous serpent they called ngan taw kyar (‘royal tiger snake’) with cool bravado.”

Rather, it’s his ruthlessness. His toying with snakes while drunk, terrifying friends. His treatment of his only long-term girlfriend, whom he dumps over the phone. His theft of the prize specimens of a Brazilian herpetologist; caught with her snakes dead in his freezer, he blames the language barrier, claiming he thought she’d granted permission. And the coup de grâce is his final, fatal blunder. Relying on bribes and half-truths, he smuggles an expedition of 16 scientists and 130 porters into one of the most remote and malarial corners of the world without official permission or a doctor — just a first-aid kit so meager it wouldn’t have served a Boy Scout camp-out.

That decision — no antivenin, no respirator, no escape plan — comes back to bite him in the form of a 10-inch many-banded krait he encounters when he, in another foggy morning hangover, thrusts his hand into the previous day’s collecting bags without checking them. His calm in giving instructions as he feels paralysis coming on is admirable. And the 30 hours his team spends giving him mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, trying to keep him oxygenated until the venom can wear off, is nothing short of heroic. It’s all the more engaging because it’s one of those losing medical battles we usually see waged in TV emergency rooms, not on the floor of a tin-roofed schoolhouse in a village named Rat Baw. But still, I couldn’t help empathizing with the snake.

Donald G. McNeil Jr. is a science reporter and former foreign correspondent for The Times.

Subject: Snakes

Location: California South Africa Myanmar (Burma)

Identifier / keyword: Hyperion Press Books and Literature Snakes First Aid McNeil, Donald G Jr South Africa California Academy of Sciences Brazil Contests and Prizes James, Jamie Frauds and Swindling Boy Scouts Bribery Environment Slowinski, Joe Camps and Camping Snake Charmer, The (Book)

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jul 13, 2008

Section: books

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2221775463

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2221775463?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-09

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 203 of 313

St. Louis Post-Dispatch Bill McClellan column: Blame it on Rio: It's about time to give up on French

Author: McClellan, Bill

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune Business News ; Washington [Washington]14 July 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Here is my new daydream: I am in Rio de Janeiro, sitting at an open-air cafe near the beach at Ipanema, smoking a Cuban cigar, wearing a Panama hat and drinking a Budweiser, that great Brazilian lager.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Jul. 14--Now that Anheuser-Busch has a deal with InBev, it seems that the heart and soul of St. Louis will soon be in Brazilian hands.

We can either be dopey about it or we can do the Brazilian thing, which is to go with the flow.

Here is my new daydream: I am in Rio de Janeiro, sitting at an open-air cafe near the beach at Ipanema, smoking a Cuban cigar, wearing a Panama hat and drinking a Budweiser, that great Brazilian lager. I am watching the young women walk past to play volleyball on the beach. Because South American women are attracted to older men, several of the young women stop to flirt with me.

"Where are you from?" one asks me.

"Rio de Luis," I reply.

That is as much of the daydream as I care to reveal, but let me just say that the young women are captivated by the notion that there is a Brazilian city in the heart of the United States.

And why shouldn't we change our name to become a Brazilian city? The French thing is all worn out. Most of us don't know who Louis was, anyway. Do you really trust a king who was a saint? I don't. A guy can be one or the other, but not both. And which Louis are we? There were something like 14 of them.

When this town was first settled, it made sense to go with a French name. The continent was still in play. The French had a chance to win. So we took a chance. It's like endorsing somebody in a primary. You want to be on board early. Had the French won, perhaps St. Louis would have been the capital of the new country.

But the French lost, and here we were, stuck with a French name in a British colony. No wonder we didn't prosper.

Besides, we never even got French pronunciations right. Chouteau is supposed to be Show-TOE. Gravois is supposed to be Grav-WAH. Instead of endearing ourselves to the French, we came off as hicks.

It's like a speech impediment we struggled with for years. Meanwhile, France was on the wane. They kept losing wars. World War I, World War II, Algeria, Vietnam. You name it, they lost it. You'd think our civic leaders would have said, "Let's get off this roller coaster." But they didn't, and the more France declined on the world stage, the more we declined on the national stage.

It is no coincidence that we were the fourth largest city in the United States before France went on its losing streak.

Brazil is a different matter. That's a country with which a city would like to be identified. Let me give you one word: Carnival.

Oh, my gosh! It is the wildest party in the world. It makes Mardi Gras look tame. And with New Orleans still suffering the effects of Hurricane Katrina, Rio de Luis would have an opportunity to corner the market on the biggest party in the U.S.

Of course, the police would have to learn to control themselves. Because we're named for a saint, St. Louis has always been uptight about Mardi Gras, and the police department reflects that general concern. Public drunkenness, women lifting their blouses so young men will throw them beads -- stuff like that just doesn't go over well around here. The police can tolerate it for only so long, and then they wade into the crowd to put a stop to it. I remember when the police whacked a few people with nightsticks one year, and I wrote in support of that. The police are underpaid, overworked and underappreciated, and it's nice to have one night a year when they can riot, I wrote.

But that's when we were named for a saint. If we change our name to Rio de Luis, the police are going to have to be more tolerant. For that matter, the citizens are going to have to be a little wilder.

That's probably not asking too much. For the last several years, all of our proposed developments have been "entertainment districts." Just thinking of downtown, the Bottle District, Ballpark Village and the Ice House District all are supposed to feature restaurants and bars. They will combine with the Washington Avenue bar district, and link up with Soulard to the south and Euclid to the west and the girlie joints across the river to create one vast entertainment district. As far as the eye can see, one big party. It's almost a good thing so many jobs are leaving. Everybody will be too hung over to work. At any rate, we are a city meant for Carnival.

Admittedly, I don't know the logistics of this, but I would suspect it's easy for a city to change its name. I'm sure we could get the aldermen on board. Let's ditch St. Louis. It's old and tired. The future looks bright for Rio de Luis.

Credit: St. Louis Post-Dispatch

Subject: Young adults; Mardi Gras

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune Business News; Washington

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jul 14, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 464722625

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login ?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/464722625?accountid=4840

Copyright: To see more of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch, or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.stltoday.com. Copyright (c) 2008, St. Louis Post-Dispatch Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Last updated: 2017-10-30

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 204 of 313

Young Catholics kick off World Youth Day in Sydney

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Jul 15, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

SYDNEY — World Youth Day, which the Roman Catholic Church bills as the largest gathering of young people on the planet, got under way in a carnival atmosphere Tuesday, with more than 140,000 people celebrating Mass on a wharf at Sydney Harbor.

"Too often in the history of the world, when young people travel in great number to other parts of the world, they do so in the cause of war. But you here today are here as pilgrims of peace," Prime Minister Kevin Rudd of Australia told the congregation, which included 26 cardinals and more than 400 bishops, before extending a welcome in nine different languages.

The Mass that followed marked the formal beginning of six days of celebrations that will culminate Sunday with a Mass offered by Pope Benedict XVI before a predicted audience of 500,000 people.

Like many other mainstream Christian denominations, Roman Catholicism is struggling to maintain its following in Australia, squeezed by the rise of charismatic independent congregations on one side and secular materialism on the other.

Young people are at the center of the battle.

"Many young people today lack hope," Benedict said last week. "They are perplexed by the questions that present themselves ever more urgently in a confusing world, and they are often uncertain which way to turn for answers."

But Benedict, who arrived in Australia on Sunday but will not formally join the celebrations until Thursday, said that those gathered in Sydney could be part of the solution, and that World Youth Day can be a point of renewal.

"It is my firm belief that young people are called to be instruments of that renewal, communicating to their peers the joy they have experienced through knowing and following Christ," he said.

And there was genuine joy at the Mass on Tuesday.

"I'm having a ball," said Giselle Rawlins, 34, who flew in from Trinidad. "There are no words to describe it, being among so many people filled with the spirit."

Her comments were echoed by many others, like Raed Sidawi, a 20-year-old business student from Jordan, who said he felt "strong and powerful" to be among so many co-religionists.

For days, Sydney has been overrun by young men and women from all over the world, moving around in happy groups, identifiable by their yellow, orange and red World Youth Day backpacks and the "pilgrim passports" hanging around their necks.

World Youth Day, which takes place every three or four years, has been a formidable logistics operation. Thousands of young pilgrims are sleeping in serried ranks in sports halls, churches and schools across the city.

And the event has found some unusual supporters. There are 282 pilgrims from Argentina, Brazil and the United States sleeping at the Malek Fahd Islamic School in Sydney's western suburbs.

"This was a good opportunity to extend our hand in friendship and break down the barriers and misunderstandings between religions," said Pinad El-Ahmad, who is in charge of inter-religious activities at the school.

"Hospitality is part of our Islamic teaching. We know that the prophet opened his house and mosque to non-Muslims, and so it is only right that we should do the same," she said.

Though the standards of accommodation are basic, it does not seem to have curbed the enthusiasm of those who have traveled to be here.

But if the participants seem happy, the preparations for World Youth Day have not been without controversy.

In an attempt to ensure that the event would run smoothly the state government in New South Wales passed a law banning people from "annoying" pilgrims, inciting protests that this was an unacceptable infringement of civil liberties.

On Tuesday the federal court struck down the law as unconstitutional, paving the way for demonstrators to hand out condoms and coat hangers, a reference to the illegal abortions they say are the inevitable result of the church's opposition to birth control.

Many Australians are also uncomfortable that the local and federal governments are subsidizing the event with more than 150 million Australian dollars, or about $147 million. Although Australia does not have a statutory separation of church and state, some people are unhappy that the Catholic Church, which counts only a quarter of Australians among its members, appears to be receiving preferential treatment.

More longstanding problems have also resurfaced.

In the past two weeks, the head of the Catholic Church in Australia, Cardinal George Pell, who presided over Tuesday's Mass, has come under close scrutiny for his handling of a sexual abuse case involving a priest.

In 2003 Pell sent a letter to the alleged victim, Anthony Jones, dismissing his assertion that he was assaulted by a priest, in part, Pell said, because there had been no other claims against the priest in question, the Reverend Terence Goodall.

However, on the same day as he sent the letter to Jones, Pell sent another letter to another person upholding his claims of assault against Goodall.

Pell denies any cover-up, saying his comments to Jones were "badly worded and a mistake." He has reopened the inquiry into Jones's allegations.

The Pope has indicated that he will offer an apology for past acts of sexual abuse by Catholic priests, as he did on his recent visit to the United States.

Subject: Young adults; Assaults; Sex crimes; Christianity

Location: Australia Argentina Brazil United States--US New South Wales Australia

People: Rudd, Kevin Benedict XVI (Pope)

Company / organization: Name: Roman Catholic Church; NAICS: 813110

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jul 15, 2008

Section: world

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2221649603

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2221649603?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-09

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 205 of 313

Young Catholics kick off World Youth Day in Sydney

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Jul 15, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

SYDNEY — World Youth Day, which the Roman Catholic Church describes as the largest gathering of young people on the planet, got under way in a carnival atmosphere Tuesday, with more than 140,000 people celebrating Mass on a wharf at Sydney Harbor.

"Too often in the history of the world, when young people travel in great number to other parts of the world, they do so in the cause of war. But you here today are here as pilgrims of peace," Prime Minister Kevin Rudd of Australia told the congregation, which included 26 cardinals and more than 400 bishops, before extending a welcome in nine different languages.

The Mass that followed marked the formal beginning of six days of celebrations that will culminate Sunday with a Mass offered by Pope Benedict XVI before a predicted audience of 500,000 people.

Like many other mainstream Christian denominations here, Roman Catholicism is struggling to maintain its following, squeezed by the rise of charismatic independent congregations on one side and secular materialism on the other.

Young people are at the center of the battle.

"Many young people today lack hope," Benedict said last week. "They are perplexed by the questions that present themselves ever more urgently in a confusing world, and they are often uncertain which way to turn for answers."

But Benedict, who arrived in Australia on Sunday but will not formally join the celebrations until Thursday, said that those gathered in Sydney could be part of the solution and that World Youth Day could be a point of renewal.

"It is my firm belief that young people are called to be instruments of that renewal, communicating to their peers the joy they have experienced through knowing and following Christ," he said.

And there was genuine joy at the Mass on Tuesday.

"I'm having a ball," said Giselle Rawlins, 34, who flew in from Trinidad. "There are no words to describe it, being among so many people filled with the spirit."

Her comments were echoed by many others, like Raed Sidawi, a 20-year-old business student from Jordan, who said he felt "strong and powerful" to be among so many co-religionists.

For days, Sydney has been crowded by young men and women from all over the world, moving around in happy groups, identifiable by their yellow, orange and red World Youth Day backpacks and the "pilgrim passports" hanging around their necks.

It is a formidable logistics operation. Thousands of young pilgrims are sleeping in sports halls, churches and schools across the city.

And the event has found some unusual supporters. There are 282 pilgrims from Argentina, Brazil and the United States sleeping at the Malek Fahd Islamic School in Sydney's western suburbs.

"This was a good opportunity to extend our hand in friendship and break down the barriers and misunderstandings between religions," said Pinad El-Ahmad, who is in charge of inter-religious activities at the school.

"Hospitality is part of our Islamic teaching. We know that the prophet opened his house and mosque to non-Muslims, and so it is only right that we should do the same," she said.

Though the standards of accommodation are basic, it does not seem to have curbed the enthusiasm of those who have traveled to be here.

But if the participants seem happy, the preparations for World Youth Day have not been without controversy.

In an attempt to ensure that the event would run smoothly, the state government in New South Wales passed a law banning people from "annoying" pilgrims, inciting protests that this was an unacceptable infringement of civil liberties.

On Tuesday the federal court struck down the law as unconstitutional, paving the way for demonstrators to hand out condoms and coat hangers, a reference to the illegal abortions they say are the inevitable result of the church's opposition to birth control and legalized abortion.

Many Australians are also uncomfortable that the local and federal governments are subsidizing the event with more than 150 million Australian dollars, or about $147 million.

Although Australia does not have the same constitutional separation of church and state as the United States, some people are unhappy that the Catholic Church, to which a quarter of Australians belong, appears to be receiving preferential treatment.

More longstanding problems have also resurfaced.

In the past two weeks, the head of the Catholic Church in Australia, Cardinal George Pell, who presided over the Mass on Tuesday, has come under close scrutiny for his handling of a sexual abuse case involving a priest.

In 2003 Pell sent a letter to the alleged victim, Anthony Jones, dismissing his assertion that he was assaulted by a priest, in part, Pell said, because there had been no other claims against the priest in question, the Reverend Terence Goodall.

However, on the same day as he sent the letter to Jones, Pell sent another letter to another person upholding his claims of assault against Goodall.

Pell denies any cover-up, saying his comments to Jones were "badly worded and a mistake."

He has reopened the inquiry into Jones's allegations.

The pope has indicated that he will offer an apology for past acts of sexual abuse by Catholic priests, as he did on his recent visit to the United States.

Subject: Church & state; Young adults; Assaults; Sex crimes; Christianity

Location: Australia Argentina Brazil United States--US New South Wales Australia

People: Rudd, Kevin Benedict XVI (Pope)

Company / organization: Name: Roman Catholic Church; NAICS: 813110

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jul 15, 2008

Section: world

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2221729139

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2221729139?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-09

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 206 of 313

July 21, 2008 (Page 16 of 64)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]21 July 2008: 16.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 207

First page: 16

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jul 21, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2226072177

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2226072177?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Jul 21, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-16

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 207 of 313

July 21, 2008 (Page 28 of 66)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]21 July 2008: 28.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 49

Issue: 87

First page: 28

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jul 21, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249225299

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249225299?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Jul 21, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 208 of 313

The world to meet scousers

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Eastern Eye ; London (UK) [London (UK)]25 July 2008: 5.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Climaxing on August 2, Contacting the World will create the largest single carnival performance in Britain. It involves 2,000 costumed participants, acrobats, musicians, circus performers and street theatre.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

AN ARTS show aims to bring together artists from as far and wide as Britain, India, Brazil and Nepal.

Liverpool will play host to Contacting the World by Manchesterbased Contact theatre group from next week.

As one of the main commissions for Liverpool's 2008 Capital of Culture year, 150 artists from around the world will arrive in the city for a week of performances, workshops, and street theatre, with shows from Sunday (27).

Climaxing on August 2, Contacting the World will create the largest single carnival performance in Britain. It involves 2,000 costumed participants, acrobats, musicians, circus performers and street theatre.

Subject: Special events; Artists; Workshops; Carnivals

Location: Liverpool England

Publication title: Eastern Eye; London (UK)

Issue: 954

Pages: 5

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jul 25, 2008

Publisher: Ethnic Media Group Ltd.

Place of publication: London (UK)

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London (UK)

Publication subject: Ethnic Interests, Asian/Pacific Islander

ISSN: 0965464X

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 389968415

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/389968415?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Ethnic Media Group Ltd. Jul 25, 2008

Last updated: 2013-10-01

Database: Ethnic NewsWatch

Document 209 of 313

Friday: Coldplay and Disney Block Party

Author: Wood, Sam; Prout, Lita

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune Business News ; Washington [Washington]25 July 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Down the Shore, the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, is tearing it up in Atlantic City as a battalion of pretenders impersonate the King (that would be Elvis, young 'uns) on the other side of town. Don't be cruel! A three-day Ozzfest for Preschoolers, the Disney Music Block Party rocks the tots in Toms River all weekend with some of the the biggest names in children's music. Mann Music Center, 5210 Parkside Ave. 8 p.m. Click for information Rick DiFonzo Band A-list guitarist, formerly of the A's. 7:30 p.m. Tin Angel, 20 S. 2nd St. Click for information Coldplay Self-described kings of "very heavy soft rock."

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Full text:

Jul. 25--A couple of rilly big shows are worth mentioning: Coldplay is doing their "heavy soft rock" thing tonight in South Philadelphia. Down the Shore, the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin, is tearing it up in Atlantic City as a battalion of pretenders impersonate the King (that would be Elvis, young 'uns) on the other side of town. Don't be cruel!

A three-day Ozzfest for Preschoolers, the Disney Music Block Party rocks the tots in Toms River all weekend with some of the the biggest names in children's music. Parents might even get a kick out of Dan Zanes, Ralph's World and They Might Be Giants -- all acts with rock and roll cred. The same festival drops anchor next week in Philadelphia's Fairmount Park.

There's a whole lot of jazzin' going on tonight, too. See below.

.

Weather

What a difference a day makes. Yesterday, the weatherman was calling for showers and thunderstorms. But today is looking mah-vellous with mostly sunny skies, reasonable humidity, and nary a drop of rain in the forecast. Highs may reach the upper 80s. Lows tonight of 67, according to the National Weather Service. Thank you, gentlemen.

Looking ahead:

Tickets went on sale today for rock's poet laureate Bob Dylan, Aug. 8, at the Electric Factory.

Billets also are for sale for actor Terrence Howard, who recently claimed he had been "blacklisted" by Bill Cosby. Howard has launched a second career as an "urban country" crooner and will warble Aug. 23 at the Theater of the Living Arts. Unsold seats are all Cos's fault, of course.

What's going on

In Philadelphia

Event

Collard Greens Cultural Festival A celebration of African-American culture and food presented by House of Umoja. With parade, live music, a cook-off. Carroll Park neighborhood. Through Sunday. Click for information. Click for Daily News preview

.

Music

She & Him Alt-soft country? Actress Zooey Deschenel (from the movie Elf) sings very sweetly with instrumentalist M. Ward. With Freakwater. 8 p.m. Trocadero, 1003 Arch St. Click for information

Alo Brasil Samba! Samba! Samba! Philadelphia's 12-piece rhythm machine also wields a mean Axe, too. With Venissa Santi. 7:30 pm. World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut Street. Click for more information

Ledisi Grammy-nominated R&B songstress. With Lalah Hathaway, daughter of the legendary Donny Hathaway. Great Plaza, Columbus Boulevard and Market Street. 7:30 p.m. Click for information

The Machine A tribute to Pink Floyd with the Delaware Symphony Orchestra and psychedelic laser show. Pleasant set and setting. Whoa! Mann Music Center, 5210 Parkside Ave. 8 p.m. Click for information

Rick DiFonzo Band A-list guitarist, formerly of the A's. 7:30 p.m. Tin Angel, 20 S. 2nd St. Click for information

Coldplay Self-described kings of "very heavy soft rock." Oh, yeah; Mr. Gwyneth Paltrow fronts. With Philadelphia's Santogold. 8 p.m. Wachovia Center, Broad Street & Pattison Avenue. Click for information

An American Chinese With Mick Basset and the Marthas, Mandi Perkins, The Armchairs. 9 p.m. Khyber, 56 S. 2nd St. Click for information

The West Philadelphia Orchestra With Nassira Project (featuring G. Calvin Weston). North Star Bar, 2639 Poplar St. 9 p.m. Click for information

Philly Jazz Leaders Art After 5 Series. Philadelphia Museum of Art. 5 p.m. Click for information.

Richie Cole His Alto Madness Orchestra Chris' Jazz Cafe, 1421 Sansom St. 8 & 10 p.m. Click for information

Dub Is A Weapon Reggae duo brings da drum and bass. With Iron, World Cafe Live, 3025 Walnut St. 9 p.m. Click for information

Umphrey's McGee The jam band rocks twice in one night! With STS9. Festival Pier, Columbus Boulevard & Spring Garden Street. 7 p.m. Click for information. . . Theater of Living Arts, 334 South St. 11 p.m. Click for information

Ronnie Baker Brooks Son of blues legend Lonnie Brooks. Warmdaddy's, 1400 Columbus Boulevard. 8 & 10 p.m. Through Saturday. Click for information.

Love City With Mondo Topless. Johnny Brendas, Frankford & Girard Aves. Click for information

.

Theater

Les Miserables Musical based on Victor Hugo's epic of class struggle. Walnut Street Theatre, 825 Walnut St. Closes Aug. 3. Click for info . Click for Inquirer review

Mama Mia! Or, How I learned to Swallow my Pride and Learned to love ABBA. Academy of Music. Through Sunday. Click for information

.

In the Suburbs

Theater

King Lear Pennsylvania Shakespeare Festival at Desales University, 2755 Station Avenue, Center Valley. Through Aug 3. Click for information

.

In South Jersey

Events

Farm Fairs Ol' McDonald had a farm and he's bringing his animals and antique farm equipment to the fair. With carnival rides, crafts, pig racing and more. Through Sunday. In Burlington County at the Village Green Fairgrounds, 62 Chestnut St., Lumberton. Click for information . . . In Gloucester County at the 4-H Fairgrounds, Route 77 South, Mullica Hill. Click for information.

.

Music

Vans Warped Tour An army of bands, with Gym Class Heroes, Reel Big Fish, Aggrolites, We the Kings, MC Chris, Say Anything, and more. Susquehanna Bank Center, 1 Harbour Blvd, Camden. Noon. Click for information.

.

At the Shore

Event

Ultimate Elvis Tribute Artist Contest Viva Atlantic City! A celebration of the King by the rhinestoned pretenders to his throne. 8 p.m. Superstar Theater, Resorts Atlantic City. Click for information

.

Music

Aretha Franklin Queen of Soul, the real thing, reigns at the ocean. 9 p.m. Borgata, 1 Borgata Way. Click for information.

Donna Summer Disco powerhouse still going strong. Love to Love You, Baby. 10 p.m. Circus Maximus Theater, Caesars, Atlantic City. Click for information

Gov't Mule Southern jams with roots in the Allman Bros. band. With Rose Hill Drive. 9 p.m. House of Blues Atlantic City. Click for information.

For the Kids

Disney Music Block Party Tour A three-day Ozzfest for the pre-schoolers and their parents. They Might Be Giants, Ralph's World, Dan Zanes & Friends and others. 3 p.m. Through Sunday. Toms River High School North, 1245 Old Freehold Rd., Toms River. Click for information

.

Contact staff writer Sam Wood at samwood@phillynews.com.

Credit: The Philadelphia Inquirer

Subject: Musicians & conductors; Musical theater; Musical performances; Childrens music

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune Business News; Washington

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jul 25, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: NEWS

ProQuest document ID: 464632554

Document URL: htt ps://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/464632554?accountid=4840

Copyright: To see more of The Philadelphia Inquirer, or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.philly.com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu Copyright (c) 2008, The Philadelphia Inquirer Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Last updated: 2017-10-30

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 210 of 313

Arts: Celebrating the beauty of diversity

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Sunday Business Post ; Cork [Cork]27 July 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

A new Festival Cafe at Carlisle Pier will serve gourmet food from a variety of traders and the Festival Times - a free newspaper - will feature specially-commissioned articles from contributors about integration, eco sustainability, fair trade and censorship.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

The Festival of World Cultures. August 22-24, Various venues and locations, Dun Laoghaire, Co Dublin

The Festival of World Cultures, aside from being the largest celebration of international cultures in Ireland, is also one of the country's best summer festivals. While more than 70 per cent of its events are free, tickets for the highlighted shows sell like hot cakes.

Now in its eighth year, the festival is set to attract audiences in excess of 250,000 people to more than 150 events. Presented by Dun Laoghaire-Rathdown County Council, the three-day festival will feature acts from60 countries in 40 venues, both indoor and outdoor.

There will be a mix of global music from, among others, Algeria, Brazil, China, Ethiopia, Mali, Morocco and Tibet. There will also be street theatre, dance and club nights, markets, exhibitions, workshops for all ages and activities for children.

The Irish premier of Abyssinian swing act Ethiopiques, with Mahmoud Ahmed, Mulatu Astatqe, Alemayehu Eshete & The Either/ Orchestra will open the event. The arrival of Sa Dingding from China, meanwhile, represents a new wave of atmospheric electronica.

New events this year include the opportunity to glimpse the hidden world of the Geisha. German street artist Edgar Muller will transform a huge area of Dun Laoghaire's East Pier into a dramatic 3D ice age scene using pavement art.

A new Festival Cafe at Carlisle Pier will serve gourmet food from a variety of traders and the Festival Times - a free newspaper - will feature specially-commissioned articles from contributors about integration, eco sustainability, fair trade and censorship.

Soak up the atmosphere by wandering the streets, where drummers, dancers, fanfare musicians, stilt walkers and cultural groups will perform in the Carnival of Colour Parade along on the seafront. Visit the Global Village where market stalls will sell food, clothes, art and accessories.

The Royal Marine Hotel, meanwhile, will feature workshops in soap-making, Dhol drumming, basket-making, Inca sun masks, South American rainsticks and Moorish mosaics.

Tibetan singer Yungchen Lhamo; funk by Balkan Beat Box; the godfathers of Parisian Arab rock Orchestre National de Barbes; Soulful Brazilian funk with Seu Jorge and rhythmic dancing and 'praise-singing' with West African Griots Banaya are a handful of events organisers say are worth checking out.

Another highlight, inspired by reggae legend BobMarley, is Africa's self-described "silent rebel" Tiken Jah Fakoly. His free concert on the giant outdoor stage at Newtownsmith Green will entertain audiences with the singer's fusion of reggae grooves and politically charged lyrics.

Extra public transport will be provided over the weekend as parking in Dun Laoghaire will be limited. Some are ticketed. Tickets and programme information available at www.festivalofworldcultures.com and at the box office, 01-8721122.

Subject: Reggae; Musical recordings; Festivals

Publication title: Sunday Business Post; Cork

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Jul 27, 2008

Section: Agenda

Publisher: Post Publications Ltd.

Place of publication: Cork

Country of publication: Ireland, Cork

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--Ireland

ISSN: 07912617

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 818328418

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/818328418?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Thomas Crosbie Holdings Limited Jul 27, 2008

Last updated: 2016-10-08

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 211 of 313

August 2, 2008 (Page 9 of 42)

Publication info: Tallahassee Democrat (1949-2011) ; Tallahassee, Florida [Tallahassee, Florida]02 Aug 2008: 9.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Tallahassee Democrat (1949-2011); Tallahassee, Florida

Volume: 103

Issue: 215

First page: 9

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 2, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Tallahassee, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Tallahassee, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 0738-5153

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2095913027

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2095913027?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Aug 2, 2008

Last updated: 2018-08-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 212 of 313

For Wealthy Brazilian, Money From Ore and Might From the Cosmos

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Aug 2, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

João Carlos Cavalcanti, the Brazilian mining magnate, meditates for three hours a day and says he draws strength from the “cosmos” -- when he is not collecting expensive cars.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

SALVADOR, Brazil

“I AM connected to the divine, to these forces here,” João Carlos Cavalcanti, the Brazilian mining magnate, said as he swept an arm out across the lily pad-covered lake behind his $15 million mansion.

A gentle breeze rustled through his thick white beard. Mr. Cavalcanti stood on the pier and closed his eyes for a moment. A uniformed servant, one of a staff of 15, hovered nearby with hors d’oeuvres and nonalcoholic drinks. She knew better than to disturb a man who meditates for three hours a day and constantly refers to himself as a “mystical” person who draws strength from “the cosmos” — when he is not collecting expensive cars, fine paintings and other playthings.

Minutes later, as Mr. Cavalcanti made his way back up the hill, through his Thai- and Indonesian-inspired gardens with Buddhist statues, his cellphone rang. Another banker was calling, this one from Canada, eager to do business with one of Brazil’s newest billionaires. Mr. Cavalcanti explained that he had big plans of his own, to form a “world mining bank” with Merrill Lynch and raise capital for exploration projects around the world.

This is the life of the nouveau billionaire in Brazil — the life that Mr. Cavalcanti said he dreamed of from the age of 9 and from the time he immersed himself in biographies of Henry Ford, John Jacob Astor and John D. Rockefeller.

A geologist by training, Mr. Cavalcanti — who goes by J.C. — applied his knowledge and considerable gumption to discovering huge reserves of iron ore and other minerals. Today he pegs his net worth at $1.2 billion, placing him among the 20 richest men in Brazil. Before this year is out, he vows to have $1 billion in liquid investments, to go with his 39 cars, 10 homes and two airplanes.

Mr. Cavalcanti, 59, is a charter member of an emerging mega-rich group in Brazil, whose flourishing economy minted the third most millionaires last year, after India and China, according to a recent study by Merrill Lynch and Capgemini, the big consulting firm. He is among the newly wealthy benefiting from Brazil’s boom in commodities like soybeans and iron ore.

The group includes Eike Batista, a mining and oil exploration entrepreneur who is worth $6.6 billion, according to Forbes. Mr. Batista, a college dropout and former champion powerboat racer, has boasted that he will become Brazil’s richest man by next year.

Today, the list of Brazil’s billionaires still has its bankers and industrialists. Indeed an industrialist, Antônio Ermírio de Moraes, chairman of Votorantim Group, which produces metals, papers, cement and electricity, is reckoned the wealthiest person in South America, with a fortune of some $10 billion. Just behind him is a financier, Joseph Safra, who runs Safra Group, a banking and investment conglomerate. Forbes pegs Mr. Safra at $8.8 billion.

Mr. Cavalcanti, the son of a railroad-track laborer, seemed highly unlikely to become a billionaire. He spent his early years in a rustic two-bedroom house in Caculé, a small farming town in Bahia State. At 24, he concluded that Bahia was too small for him, so he left for a consulting job in São Paulo with a German firm. He spent Sundays driving the wealthy neighborhoods, photographing mansions in Morumbi and in Jardim Europa and admiring the BMWs and Porsches in the showrooms.

“I always had a vision of what I wanted to have,” he said.

LATER, he began prospecting on his own for minerals. By 2003, with cash to support his search drying up, he sold a beach house and an apartment to raise investment funds. The gamble paid off in 2004, when he discovered a huge iron ore reserve back home in Bahia. Other geologists had long given up on the area; the giant mining company Vale, which owned a magnesium reserve close by, had missed the iron deposit, Mr. Cavalcanti said.

By his telling, he discovered the reserve while driving at night mostly alone in a four-wheel-drive truck, relying on old regional maps dating from 1937.

According to mining industry publications, Mr. Cavalcanti later sold the reserve, which contains at least 1.8 billion tons of ore, to an Indian miner, Pramod Agarwal, for some $360 million. He does not dispute the reports.

“J.C. is a born entrepreneur,” said João César de Freitas Pinheiro, assistant general director for the National Department of Mineral Production. “He had a vision that the market would improve, and he waited for an opportunity to explore when the prices got better, and he took it.”

Since then Mr. Cavalcanti has been on a spree. He said his 39 cars would fetch about $1 million, including a Ferrari, Maserati, Porsche and two BMWs. His love of cars extends to American classics like the 1959 Ford pickup truck parked at his home here. He said he was negotiating to buy a specially built Mercedes McLaren, price tag $1.4 million. (Only three Brazilians have a McLaren, he said, one of those being Mr. Batista.)

Last December he and his wife, Renilce, 55, moved into a home straight out of Gone With the Wind. Recently she showed off the $3 million in artwork they bought to fill three walls, all by Brazilian painters, including Ismael Nery and Flavio de Carvalho. The Brazilian landscaper Gilberto Elkis designed the home’s sculpted gardens for a fee of $1 million.

Mr. Cavalcanti recently bought a $15 million Hawker 900 plane with a longer range than his Learjet, enabling him to make nonstop trips to Europe and the United States.

THE son of Italian immigrants, Mr. Cavalcanti said he was building a home in the family’s native Tuscany, which will become his 11th residence.

For all his lavish possessions, Mr. Cavalcanti described himself as a disciplined soul who long ago forsook the playboy life for a deeply spiritual one. He does not drink alcohol or smoke. He described soccer, the passion of most Brazilians, as “a waste of time.” He said he detested Carnival, the annual street bacchanal for which Salvador is widely known.

He met his wife at a family wedding when he was 12 years old. He said they shared a passion for studying spiritual gurus that spanned the gamut. The library of his Salvador home is filled with books from authors like Joel S. Goldsmith, the American Christian Scientist.

With his thick beard, his wavy white hair and his habit of talking with his eyes closed, Mr. Cavalcanti looks the New Age part. At home in Salvador, he meditates most mornings at 3 a.m., sitting in a Buddhist chair in the backyard with his arms outstretched while soothing music plays. Sometimes his cat Felicity joins him.

He and his wife say all living things should be protected. Mr. Cavalcanti said he spurned a deal with a mining entrepreneur in 2004 after the man crushed a large ant with his fist at a Salvador restaurant. “I told him I would no longer do business with him,” Mr. Cavalcanti said. “He thought I was crazy.”

He said he planned to become a major philanthropist, along the lines of Warren Buffett and Bill and Melinda Gates. The Cavalcantis have established a foundation to protect abandoned animals, some 2,000 dogs and 500 cats so far. Mr. Cavalcanti said he also planned to open a cancer treatment hospital for children.

The trappings of wealth notwithstanding, he said he remained an explorer at heart. Early last month he decided it was time to return to the field and to the search for more mineral deposits.

“I need to discover new reserves that can generate more wealth, more employment,” he said. “I need to go back to being J.C. in the country again.”

Mery Galanternick contributed reporting from Rio de Janeiro.

Subject: Iron compounds

Location: South America China Brazil United States--US Rio de Janeiro Brazil Canada India Europe

People: Ford, John Buffett, Warren

Company / organization: Name: Merrill Lynch & Co Inc; NAICS: 523110, 523120; Name: Capgemini; NAICS: 541512, 541611

Identifier / keyword: Brazil Automobiles Barrionuevo, Alexei MILLIONAIRES AND BILLIONAIRES Merrill Lynch & Co Carnival (Pre-Lenten) Salvador (Brazil) HOUSING Mines and Mining Rockefeller Foundation Ford, Henry Cap Gemini SA Banks and Banking Batista, Eike Cocktails Metals and Minerals Buffett, Warren E Forbes Magazine Canada Safra Group Eyes and Eyesight India Entrepreneurship Ferrari SpA China Steel and Iron South America Maserati SpA Bahia (Brazil) Porsche AG Oil (Petroleum) and Gasoline Germany Ford Motor Co Cancer Europe Certificates of Deposit Gates, Bill and Melinda, Foundation United States Tuscany (Italy)

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 2, 2008

Section: world

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2221572937

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2221572937?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-09

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 213 of 313

August 2, 2008 (Page 8 of 234)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]02 Aug 2008: 8.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 219

First page: 8

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 2, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2225924082

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2225924082?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Aug 2, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-16

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 214 of 313

Cavalcanti draws strength from 'cosmos'

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Aug 4, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

SALVADOR, BRAZIL — "I am connected to the divine, to these forces here," João Carlos Cavalcanti, the Brazilian mining magnate, said as he swept an arm out across the lily pad-covered lake behind his $15 million mansion.

A gentle breeze rustled through his thick white beard. Cavalcanti stood on the pier and closed his eyes for a moment. A uniformed servant, one of a staff of 15, hovered nearby with hors d'oeuvres and nonalcoholic drinks. She knew better than to disturb a man who meditates for three hours a day and constantly refers to himself as a "mystical" person who draws strength from "the cosmos" - when he is not collecting expensive cars, fine paintings and other playthings.

Minutes later, as Cavalcanti made his way back up the hill, through his Thai and Indonesian-inspired gardens with Buddhist statues, his cellphone rang. Another banker was calling, this one from Canada, eager to do business with one of Brazil's newest billionaires.

Cavalcanti explained that he had big plans of his own, to form a "world mining bank" with Merrill Lynch and raise capital for exploration projects around the world.

This is the life of the nouveau billionaire in Brazil - the life that Cavalcanti said he dreamed of from the age of 9 and from the time he immersed himself in biographies of Henry Ford, John Jacob Astor and John Rockefeller.

A geologist by training, Cavalcanti - who goes by J.C. - applied his knowledge and considerable gumption to discovering huge reserves of iron ore and other minerals. Today he pegs his net worth at $1.2 billion, placing him among the 20 richest men in Brazil. Before this year is out, he vows to have $1 billion in liquid investments, to go with his 39 cars, 10 homes and two airplanes.

Cavalcanti, 59, is a charter member of an emerging megarich group in Brazil, whose flourishing economy minted the third-most millionaires last year, after India and China, according to a recent study by Merrill Lynch and Capgemini, the consulting firm. He is among the newly wealthy benefiting from Brazil's boom in commodities like soybeans and iron ore, not to mention its bankers and industrialists.

The group includes Eike Batista, a mining and oil exploration entrepreneur who is worth $6.6 billion, according to Forbes. Batista, a college dropout and former champion powerboat racer, has boasted that he will become Brazil's richest man by next year.

Indeed an industrialist, Antônio Ermirio de Moraes, chairman of Votorantim Group, which produces metals, papers, cement and electricity, is reckoned the wealthiest person in South America, with a fortune of some $10 billion. Just behind him is a financier, Joseph Safra, who runs Safra Group, a banking and investment conglomerate. Forbes pegs Safra at $8.8 billion.

Cavalcanti, the son of a railroad-track laborer, seemed highly unlikely to become a billionaire. He spent his early years in a rustic two-bedroom house in Cacule, a small farming town in Bahia state. At 24, he concluded that Bahia was too small for him, so he left for a consulting job in São Paolo with a German firm. He spent Sundays driving the wealthy neighborhoods, photographing mansions in Morumbi and in Jardim Europa and admiring the BMWs and Porsches in the showrooms.

"I always had a vision of what I wanted to have," he said.

Later, he began prospecting on his own for minerals. By 2003, with cash to support his search drying up, he sold a beach house and an apartment to raise investment funds. The gamble paid off in 2004, when he discovered a huge iron ore reserve back home in Bahia. Other geologists had long given up on the area; the giant mining company Vale, which owned a magnesium reserve close by, had missed the iron deposit, Cavalcanti said.

By his telling, he discovered the reserve while driving at night mostly alone in a four-wheel-drive truck, relying on old regional maps dating from 1937.

According to mining industry publications, Cavalcanti later sold the reserve, which contains at least 1.8 billion tons of ore, to an Indian miner, Pramod Agarwal, for some $360 million. He does not dispute the reports.

"J.C. is a born entrepreneur," said João César de Freitas Pinheiro, assistant general director for the National Department of Mineral Production. "He had a vision that the market would improve, and he waited for an opportunity to explore when the prices got better, and he took it."

Since then, Cavalcanti has been on a spree. Last December he and his wife, Renilce, 55, moved into a home straight out of "Gone With the Wind." Recently she showed off the $3 million in artwork they bought to fill three walls, all by Brazilian painters, including Ismael Nery and Flavio de Carvalho. The Brazilian landscaper Gilberto Elkis designed the home's sculpted gardens for a fee of $1 million.

Cavalcanti recently bought a $15 million Hawker 900 plane with a longer range than his Learjet, enabling him to make nonstop trips to Europe and the United States.

The son of Italian immigrants, Cavalcanti said he was building a home in the family's native Tuscany, which will become his 11th residence.

But for all his lavish possessions, Cavalcanti described himself as a disciplined soul who long ago forsook the playboy life for a deeply spiritual one. He does not drink or smoke.

He described soccer, the passion of most Brazilians, as "a waste of time." He said he detested Carnival, the annual street bacchanal for which Salvador is widely known.

He met his wife at a family wedding when he was 12 years old. He said they shared a passion for studying spiritual gurus that spanned the gamut. The library of his Salvador home is filled with books from authors like Joel Goldsmith, the American Christian Scientist.

With his thick beard, his wavy white hair and his habit of talking with his eyes closed, Cavalcanti looks the New Age part. At home in Salvador, he meditates most mornings at 3 a.m., sitting in a Buddhist chair in the backyard with his arms outstretched while soothing music plays. Sometimes his cat Felicity joins him.

He and his wife say all living things should be protected.

Cavalcanti said he spurned a deal with a mining entrepreneur in 2004 after the man crushed a large ant with his fist at a Salvador restaurant. "I told him I would no longer do business with him," Cavalcanti said. "He thought I was crazy."

He said he planned to become a major philanthropist, along the lines of Warren Buffett and Bill and Melinda Gates. The Cavalcantis have established a foundation to protect abandoned animals, some 2,000 dogs and 500 cats thus far. Cavalcanti said he also planned to open a cancer treatment hospital for children. The trappings of wealth notwithstanding, he said he remained an explorer at heart. Early last month he decided it was time to return to the field and to the search for more mineral deposits. "I need to discover new reserves that can generate more wealth, more employment," he said. "I need to go back to being J.C. in the country again."

Mery Galanternick contributed reporting from Rio de Janeiro.

Subject: Iron compounds; Entrepreneurs

Location: United States--US Canada India South America China Brazil Rio de Janeiro Brazil Europe

People: Ford, John Buffett, Warren

Company / organization: Name: Merrill Lynch & Co Inc; NAICS: 523110, 523120; Na me: Capgemini; NAICS: 541512, 541611

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 4, 2008

Section: business

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2221640681

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2221640681?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-09

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 215 of 313

Q4 2008 Cisco Systems Earnings Conference Call - Final

Publication info: Fair Disclosure Wire ; Linthicum [Linthicum]05 Aug 2008.

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Full text:  

OPERATOR: Thank you for holding and welcome to Cisco Systems fourth-quarter fiscal year 2008 financial results conference call. At the request of Cisco Systems, today's conference is being recorded. If you have any objections, you may disconnect.

Now, I would like to introduce Ms. Blair Christie, Senior Vice President of Corporate Communications for Cisco Systems. Ma'am, you may begin.

BLAIR CHRISTIE, SVP, CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS, CISCO SYSTEMS: Good afternoon everyone. Welcome to our 74th quarterly conference call. I'm Blair Christie and I'm joined by John Chambers, our Chairman and CEO; Frank Calderoni, Chief Financial Officer; Rick Justice, Executive Vice President of Worldwide Operations and Business Development; as well as Pankaj Patel, Senior Vice President and General Manager of our Service Provider Group; Ned Hooper, Senior Vice President of Corporate Development and Consumer Group; and Jim McDonald, Chief Executive of our Service Provider Video Group.

The Q4 fiscal year 2008 press release is on Full National Marketwire and the European Financial and Technology Wire as well as on the Cisco website at, www.Cisco.com. I would like to remind you that we have a corresponding webcast with slides. In those slides, you will find the financial information we covered during the call as well as additional financial metrics and analysis that you might find helpful. Downloadable Q4 financial statements will be available following the conference call, including revenue segments by product and geography, income statements, full GAAP to non-GAAP reconciliation information, balance sheets and cash flow statements, can also be found on our website in the Investor Relations section. Just click on the financial section of the website to access the slides and these documents.

A replay of this call will be available via telephone from August 5 through August 12 at 866-357-4205 or 203-369-0122 for international callers. It's also available from August 5 through October 17 on Cisco's Investor Relations website.

Throughout this conference call, we'll be referencing both GAAP and non-GAAP financial results. Our commentary today will be providing information about our Q4 financial results as well as our fiscal year 2008 financial results. The results in the press release are unaudited.

As always, the matters we will be discussing today include forward-looking statements and as such are subject to the risks and uncertainties that we discuss in detail in our documents filed with the SEC, specifically the most recent Annual Report on Form 10-Q and 10-K and any applicable amendment which identify important risk factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements.

Unauthorized recording of this conference call is not permitted. And I will now turn it over to John for his commentary on the quarter. John?

JOHN CHAMBERS, CHAIRMAN, CEO, CISCO SYSTEMS: During the opening comments for the conference call, I will focus on what I view to be the key takeaways for Q4 and fiscal year 2008 an update on why we continue to be comfortable with our long-term growth projections of 12% to 17% and our revenue guidance going forward with the appropriate caveats. Frank will follow these opening comments with additional detail on Q4 and on the fiscal year 2008. The third section of the call will focus on business momentum and strategy from a geographic, product, and customer segment basis. Frank will then follow with additional financial parameters around our guidance. I will then wrap it up with some comments in terms of Cisco's momentum going into Q1 and finally our Q&A session.

In this conference call, we are going to move to a more abbreviated format. For new areas or areas that have evolved, we will provide additional detail in this call and in future calls. We encourage your feedback on these changes. We will cover fiscal year 2008 at this time and then cover Q4.

First, from a fiscal year point of view and a financial perspective, we're very pleased with the following very solid financial results in fiscal year 2008. Revenue was a record $39.5 billion, a 13% year-over-year increase. Cash generated from operations was $12.1 billion, a 20% year-over-year increase. Non-GAAP earnings per share were $1.56, a 16% year-over-year increase and GAAP earnings per share were $1.31, a 12% year-over-year increase.

Second year-over-year order growth was also very solid for fiscal year 2008. Product order growth was approximately 12%. Service order growth was approximately 25%. Product book-to-bill was above 1.

Third, in a year were there were a number of challenges, we were pleased with both our geographic balance and year-over-year order growth for fiscal year 2008. Our emerging countries' focus continued with solid momentum. China order growth was approximately 30%. India order growth was 32%. Mexico had order growth of 30% -- 32%. And Russia grew 23%. Brazil grew 48%. Emerging countries in Asia in total grew approximately 28%. That is our Asia-Pacific operation, not counting Korea and Australia and New Zealand.

Our emerging market theater which consists of Eastern Europe, Latin America, the Middle Eastern and Africa and Russia and CIS grew in total approximately 19%. Asia-Pacific in total grew approximately 20%. European markets grew approximately 13%, while the US and Canada order growth was 9%. Japan grew 5%.

Fourth, from a fiscal year 2008 year-over-year product revenue growth perspective, routing revenues grew 14% year-over-year, again led by hand routing with a CRS growth of approximately 119%. Switching grew 7% year-over-year. Our advanced technologies grew 21% year-over-year, led by Unified Communications with growth of approximately 51% and Application Networking Services with growth of approximately 36%.

Fifth, from a customer segment perspective for fiscal year 2008, enterprise public sector order growth was approximately 10% year-over-year, commercial continued strong at 20%, growth year-over-year, service providers grew approximately 10% year-over-year. Now, moving on to Q4 fiscal year 2008.

Q4 was a very solid quarter for Cisco, especially given some challenges that we're all seeing occur in the global marketplace. In terms of those areas that we can control or influence, we continue to feel very comfortable with both our progress in the quarter and our long-term differentiated strategy as we move into new market adjacencies. Again, let me review it first from a financial point of view where we were pleased with the following results in Q4.

Revenue was a record $10.4 billion, approximately a 10% year-over-year increase and it was our first $10 billion quarter from a revenue perspective as generated from operations with $3.5 billion. Non-GAAP earnings per share were $0.40 and 11% year-over-year increase and GAAP earnings per share were $0.33, a 6% year-over-year increase. Non-GAAP gross margins were very solid at 65.2%. Non-GAAP operating expenses as a percentage of revenue for Q4 was 35.7%.

Second, in terms of year-over-year order growth in Q4, balance was good. Product order growth was approximately 10%. Service order growth was approximately 20%. Product book-to-bill was comfortably above 1.

Third, from a geographic year-over-year order growth perspective, there were a number of positives in Q4 and a couple of challenges. Our emerging countries' focus where orders tend to be variable -- that is lumpy in my terms -- continued at solid momentum. And we achieved better balanced results across the majority of the emerging countries than we had seen in recent quarters. China order growth again was over 30%. India growth was approximately 20%. Mexico and Russia both had order growth above 40%. Brazil grew approximately 30%. Emerging countries in the Asia-Pacific theater, again not counting Korea and Australia and New Zealand in the total number, in total grew approximately 23%.

Our emerging market theater which does not include Asia grew in total approximately 10%. Asia-Pacific in total grew 19% in Q4. Japan, after a very strong Q3, grew year-over-year at 10%. European markets grew approximately 11%, while the US and Canada orders grew approximately 7%.

Fourth, from a Q4 year-over-year product revenue growth perspective, routing revenue grew 8% year-over-year, again led by high-end routing with a CRS-1 growth of approximately 85%. Switching grew 5% year-over-year. Our advanced technologies grew 15% year-over-year led by Unified Communications with growth of approximately 29% and Application Networking Services with growth of approximately 30%.

Fifth is an update of our early-stage internal startups, what we call emerging technologies. Our strategy is to develop a reasonable percentage of these emerging technologies into what we categorize as advanced technologies with a realistic possibility of becoming $1 billion plus in sales and the number one market position in the respective product categories if we execute properly.

Overall, progress was extremely strong in Q4. While these numbers are not significant at this point in time, we believe that with proper execution, they can become very significant to our growth ranges in the long run. Q4 was a very strong quarter for emerging technologies group and in total grew approximately 300% year-over-year. We will focus on year-over-year growth rates for the following breakouts within the emerging technologies group.

Telepresence grew approximately 500% year-over-year. Digital media systems grew approximately 200% year-over-year and physical security grew approximately 250% year-over-year. Again, those are from order perspective on the emerging technologies.

Six, from a global customer segment perspective, enterprise public sector orders' growth in Q4 was approximately 10% year-over-year with the enterprise area growing approximately 13% on a global basis and the public sector growing 4% year-over-year. Commercial orders continued strong at 17% growth year-over-year and service providers grew approximately 5%. Anticipating your questions about the US enterprise order growth, Q4 grew year-over-year at 13% versus what Q3 enterprise US growth rate was at 6%. We will provide additional details on each of the above areas later on in the conference call.

On the very positive side, we are seeing network-enabled collaborative business process changes and productivity increases begin to gain traction on a global basis. Discussion with many of our customers are moving from a conceptual what if collaboration of Web 2.0 and how it will conceptually enable competitive advantage of productivity increases now through our leading-edge customers having a discussion about how they could implement collaborative network-enabled Web 2.0 productivity tools often with Cisco as their strategic and trusted business partner.

In summary, in terms of areas that we can control or influence, we continue to be pleased with our progress. Again, our confidence in the 12% to 17% long-term growth range remains very strong.

While at the risk of stating the obvious and as we said repeatedly in prior conference calls and we'll continue to say in our future conference calls, there may be times when our revenues grow above our expectations and there will definitely be times when they grow below. From a challenger's perspective first, we all see the same mixed signals in the market from both a US perspective and other parts of the world in terms of economic momentum, stock market behavior, energy costs, and confidence changes. Second, from a service provider perspective which now represents approximately one-third of our total product business, FX expenditure signals are mixed, both by companies and geographies.

With the shift to IP networks firmly having taken hold, we believe we're strongly positioned with the global service providers more than we have ever been before both from a technology and a business partner perspective. In simple terms, our service provider customers are often in one of three phases. A first phase are those that over the last several years have built out very large IP networks and are in the process of loading those networks and adding services. Second are those at the start of either their first next-generation IP buildout or even their second next-generation IP buildout. And third, those that are slowing CapEx until they achieve more top-line growth. Regardless of which state these companies are in, we think we're in a very good position to capture a larger percentage of the total spend. Now, moving on to a discussion of revenue guidance.

As we said before, Cisco will always be affected by major economic changes, capital spending patterns, new and existing competitors and our ability to execute or not on our strategy and other factors as discussed in our SEC reports. For purposes of our long-range guidance as well as our quarterly guidance, we're also seeing that our vision of how the industry and the market will evolve will be accurate and we will effectively execute on that vision.

As a reminder, during each of the economic slowdown in the last 15 years, Cisco has always navigated through them very effectively. We did this in 1993, 1997, 2001, 2003. And in each scenario, we gained both wallet share and in my opinion profit share. As a result, we were better positioned coming out of the transitions versus our peers. We will continue to be aggressive in our investments during this slowdown.

Despite the uncertain macroeconomic environment and the impact it's having on many of our customers, particularly in the US, we believe that our strategy and the critical role the network plays in enabling all forms of communication and IT is right on target. Secondly, with all the appropriate caveats, our best estimate is this is a relatively short challenge going forward. Cisco will use this time as an opportunity to expand our share of customer spend and to be aggressive about moving into new market adjacencies.

While it is very difficult to predict when we may see a stronger spending environment by our customers and return to our 12% to 17% long-term growth objectives, our best estimate with the appropriate caveats mentioned earlier is that the current economic challenges remain with us for the next few quarters. It is for this reason that we will provide guidance for the first half of fiscal year 2009 rather than the entire fiscal year until we become more comfortable with the predictability of when we believe our revenue growth will accelerate back toward our long-term guidance.

With this discussion in mind, our revenue guidance for Q1 fiscal year 2009 including our usual caveats as discussed earlier and in our financial reports is for revenue growth in the range of 8% year-over-year. As for guidance in Q2 fiscal year 2009, again with all the appropriate caveats, is for revenue growth in the 8.5% range year-over-year.

In summary, we believe that we are very well-positioned in the industry from a vision, differentiated strategy and an execution perspective. We believe we are entering the next phase of the Internet as growth and productivity will center on collaboration enabled by network Web 2.0 technologies. We will do our best to provide the product architectures and the expertise to help our customers in the implementation of these collaborative capabilities both from a technology and a business perspective. We will also share with our customers how we have done this internally. In short, we're going to attempt to execute our strategy over the next decade that is very similar to what we did in the early '90s. And as we said before, it powered Cisco's growth for an entire decade except for the obvious differences this time of being a company that is now at a run rate of approximately $40 billion with over 66,000 employees focused on this opportunity.

Let me now turn it over to Frank for some additional comments.

FRANK CALDERONI, CFO, CISCO SYSTEMS: We're pleased with Cisco's very solid results this quarter as we closed out our fiscal year. Starting with our Q4 results, total revenue for the fourth quarter was $10.4 billion, an increase of approximately 10% year-over-year at the high end of our guidance of 9% to 10%, Cisco's first $10 billion revenue quarter. Routing revenue was $2 billion, up 8% year-over-year, due primarily to continued growth in our high-end router portfolio at 12% year-over-year with particular strength in CRS-1 growth of approximately 85% year-over-year. Switching revenue was $3.5 billion, an increase of 5% year-over-year driven by growth in our fixed switching portfolio. Advanced technologies revenue totaled $2.6 billion, representing an increase of 15% year-over-year led by strong performance in Unified Communications of 29% year-over-year growth and Application Networking Services growth of approximately 30% year-over-year. Other product revenue totaled $551 million, an increase of 9% year-over-year.

Total service revenue was $1.7 billion, up approximately 16% year-over-year with solid growth across all geographies. We are particularly pleased with growth in Advanced Services of approximately 23%. Total revenue growth by geography was in the range of 5% year-over-year in the US and Canada to a high of 42% in emerging markets. Emerging markets revenue growth for the quarter was higher than the order growth rate that John reported due to the increased shipments and recognition of previously-deferred revenue.

Q4 total non-GAAP gross margin was 65.2%, down slightly quarter-over-quarter and flat on a year-to-year basis. For product only, non-GAAP gross margin for the fourth quarter was 65.3%, down 0.6 point quarter-over-quarter and up slightly year-over-year. Our non-GAAP service margin for the fourth quarter was 64.7%, up from 62.7% last quarter. Service margin will typically experience some variability over time due to various factors such as the changes in mix between technical support services and advanced services as well as the timing of support contract initiations and renewals.

Total gross margin by geography ranged from 62.6% for emerging markets to 70.9% in Japan. Across the geographies, the margins have remained relatively stable over the last few quarters.

Non-GAAP operating expenses as a percentage of revenue were approximately 35.7% in Q4 fiscal year 2008, up from 35.5% in Q4 fiscal year 2007. Foreign exchange impact for the quarter was $82 million when compared to the same period last year which added approximately 0.8 point to the ratio. Excluding foreign exchange, non-GAAP operating expenses for Q4 grew at 8% year-over-year. Going forward, we will continue to invest in areas that we believe will drive future growth in innovation while remaining focused on prudently managing our discretionary spending.

Interest and other income was $157 million for Q4 versus $228 million for Q4 fiscal year 2007. The decline year-over-year was due to market conditions which resulted in lower gains from the sale of public equity investments and lower interest rates. We remain pleased with the high quality and the conservative risk profile of our investment portfolio. Our Q4 fiscal year 2008 non-GAAP tax provision rate was 25.6%, reflecting realignment of foreign subsidiaries. For the full year, our non-GAAP tax rate was 23.1%, reflecting the benefit we reported in Q1 related to a tax audit settlement. Excluding the settlement, our full year non-GAAP tax rate would be approximately 24%.

Non-GAAP net income for the fourth quarter of fiscal 2008 was $2.4 billion compared to $2.3 billion in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2007, representing a 6% increase on a year-to-year basis. Non-GAAP earnings per share on a fully diluted basis for the fourth quarter were $0.40, up from $0.36 in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2007, an 11% increase year-over-year. GAAP net income for the fourth quarter was $2 billion as compared to $1.9 billion in the fourth quarter fiscal year 2007. GAAP earnings per share on a fully diluted basis for the fourth quarter were $0.33, up from $0.31 in the same quarter of fiscal year 2007.

Now, switching to our full fiscal year performance. Total revenue for fiscal year 2008 was $39.5 billion, an increase of approximately 13% over fiscal year 2007 revenue of $34.9 billion. Routing revenue ended the year at $7.9 billion, up 14% year-over-year with strong growth in CRS-1 revenue, up approximately 119% year-over-year. Switching revenue was $13.3 billion, an increase of 7% over fiscal year 2007 and Advanced Technologies revenue grew 21% year-over-year to $9.7 billion. Total services revenue was $6.4 billion, growth of approximately 18% in fiscal year 2008.

Total non-GAAP gross margins of fiscal year 2008 was 65.4%, up 0.6 point year-over-year. For product only, non-GAAP gross margin was up 0.8 year-over-year due to higher cost savings and shipment volumes, partially offset by discounts in pricing. Non-GAAP operating expenses as a percentage of revenue were approximately 35.9% in fiscal year 2008, up from 35.2% in fiscal year 2007. Foreign exchange impact for the full fiscal year was approximately $332 million when compared to the same period last year, which added approximately 0.8 point to the ratio.

Non-GAAP net income for fiscal year 2008 was $9.6 billion, up approximately 14% from fiscal year 2007 non-GAAP net income of $8.4 billion. Non-GAAP earnings per share on a fully diluted basis for fiscal year 2008 were $1.56, up from $1.34 in fiscal year 2007, representing a 16% increase year-over-year. GAAP net income for fiscal year 2008 was $8.1 billion or $1.31 per share on a fully diluted basis compared to $7.3 billion or $1.17 per share on a fully diluted basis in fiscal 2007. This represents 10% and 12% increases year-over-year respectively. The product backlog at the end of fiscal year 2008 was $4.8 billion compared with $3.9 billion at the end of fiscal year 2007.

Moving on to the balance sheet, the total of cash, cash equivalents, and investments at the end of Q4 was $26.2 billion, up $1.8 billion from Q3. During Q4, we generated $3.5 billion in cash flow from operations as well as $616 million in proceeds from our stock option exercises and employee stock purchases. For the full fiscal year 2008, we generated $12.1 billion of cash from operations. For the quarter, we repurchased $1.35 billion of common stock or 54 million shares of our stock at an average price of $25.11 per share. For the full fiscal year, we repurchased $10.4 billion of common stock or 372 million shares of stock at an average price of $27.80. We ended the quarter with approximately $8.4 billion remaining in the current stock repurchase authorization.

Moving on to Accounts Receivable, we ended the quarter at $3.8 billion, down 9% from Q3. At the end of Q4, days sales outstanding, or DSO, was 34 days compared to 39 days in Q3. Total inventory at the end of Q4 was $1.2 billion, down 3% from Q3 FY 2008. Non-GAAP inventory turns improved from 10.7 last quarter to a record 11.5 turns this quarter. Our inventory purchase commitments at the end of Q4 were 2.7 billion, relatively flat from the end of Q3.

Deferred revenue was $8.9 billion at the end of Q4, an increase of $270 million from Q3 and $1.8 billion from Q4 FY 2007, representing growth of 26% from Q4 FY 2007. Deferred product revenue was $2.7 billion, down $165 million from last quarter and deferred service revenue was $6.1 billion, up $435 million from last quarter.

At the end of Q4, our headcount totaled 66,129, a net increase of approximately $900 from Q3 FY 2008. Our headcount increases were primarily the results of Cisco hires in engineering, sales, and services.

In conclusion, I'm very pleased with our performance for the fourth quarter of the fiscal year, enabled by our balanced portfolio management approach to innovation, a broad and growing global footprint and a team dedicated to outstanding execution. I'm also pleased with our performance for the entire fiscal year led by strong top-line growth in the first half and excellent balance sheet management in the second half. Our ability to deliver solid financial results with excellent cash flow and a strong book-to-bill during a fiscal year that included somewhat uncertain macroeconomic conditions in our largest geographies illustrates the power of our business model.

Finally, as John indicated, we do plan to continue investments in our diversified technology portfolio while maintaining our proven focus on profitability in order to take advantage of market transitions and drive toward our long-term growth target of the 12% to 17% over the next three to five years. I'll now turn the call over to John.

JOHN CHAMBERS: In this section of the call, we will cover our geographies, customer segments, and products for Q4 in more detail. The product review will be in revenue growth terms, while the geographic and customer segments will be discussed in terms of orders unless otherwise indicated. First, from a geographic and customer segment point of view in terms of Q4 year-over-year order growth, there were a number of positives from our five theaters and customer segments.

Discussing Asia-Pacific first, order growth in the Asia-Pacific in Q4 was very solid at approximately 19% year-over-year. As we said earlier, growth in China was about 30% and India was approximately 20%. Korea was flat. Australia and New Zealand grew approximately 15% year-over-year. The rest of Asia grew approximately 17%.

From a customer segment perspective, balance was again good with enterprise growing in the high teens and Asia-Pacific public sector growing 20%, service provider growing at 10% and commercial at approximately 30%. Japan continued their solid momentum in Q4 with growth of approximately 10% following a strong Q3 where they experienced growth above 20%. Leading the way was a service provider with growth about 25% which represents approximately half of our total business in Japan. Enterprise, public sector and commercial were relatively flat. Overall, we feel good about our momentum in the Japanese market.

Europe. Europe had a very solid Q4 with growth of approximately 11% despite a more challenging economic environment. Balance was relatively good by customer segments within some of the key countries. Commercial growth was 16%. Enterprise growth in Europe was 12%. Public sector was 7% and service provider growth was 9% year-over-year. Germany led the way with growth in the upper 20s. The UK and the Netherlands had growth in the low teens. Spain had growth of approximately 20% and Italy was down slightly.

For the US, order growth in Q4 was approximately 7% year-over-year. From a customer segment perspective, enterprise growth not including public sector was approximately 13%. Commercial was approximately 14% and service provider which had very tough comparisons from Q4 a year ago was flat. Public sector year-over-year order growth in the US was down approximately 6%. As we said earlier, the enterprise segment grew approximately 13%. Balance was good across the six US enterprise areas, with five of the six growing from the high single digits to approximately 23% year-over-year.

Emerging markets. We were very pleased with the balance across all of our emerging market countries. The emerging market theater grew approximately 10% year-over-year. As a reminder, the emerging market theater does not include emerging countries in Asia, such as China which grew approximately 30% year-over-year and India which grew approximately 20% year-over-year as we said earlier.

In the emerging market theaters, three of the four geographies had year-over-year growth in the high teens to mid-20s in Q4. These included Eastern Europe, Latin America, and Russia/CIS. As we have shared in prior conference calls, growth can be variable in terms of the countries or segments in the emerging markets. Middle East and Africa growth was down approximately 5% year-over-year in Q4.

Products. As a reminder, products are discussed in terms of revenue growth year-over-year. Routers in total grew approximately 8% in Q4 led by high-end router growth of 12% and midrange router growth of approximately 10%. Low-end router growth was relatively flat. Switching grew approximately 5% with modular switches flat and fixed switches growing at approximately 10% year-over-year. Advanced Technologies growth was solid. Security grew approximately 10%. Network home grew in the mid-20s. Unified Communication grew 29%. Wireless grew 13% and storage was down approximately 14%. Application Networking Services grew approximately 30% and video systems grew approximately 7%. Again, the total for all advanced technologies was 15% year-over-year growth in Q4. As we discussed in last quarter's conference call, we were very pleased with our product pipeline and innovation leadership across almost all of our product areas.

In summary, our vision of how the industry is going to evolve appears to be playing out very much as we expected. We believe our differentiated strategy is also achieving the benefits to both Cisco and our customers that we thought were possible. Finally, our execution is on target in terms of results as measured by customer partnership perspective, market share, and share of our customers' total communications and IT expenditures as the network becomes a platform for delivering these capabilities.

Now I will turn it back over to you Frank for additional detail on financial guidance and other financial highlights.

FRANK CALDERONI: Let me remind you again that our comments include forward-looking statements. You should review our recent SEC filings that identify important risk factors and understand that actual results could materially differ from those contained in the forward-looking statements. The guidance we're providing is on a non-GAAP basis with reconciliation to GAAP.

As John indicated, at this time, we will provide revenue guidance for the first half of fiscal year 2009 rather than for the entire fiscal year until we become more comfortable with the predictability of when we believe our revenue growth rates will accelerate back toward our long-range guidance of 12% to 17%. Therefore, we anticipate total revenue growth for the first quarter to be 8% plus or minus 1% year-over-year. Revenue growth for the second quarter is expected to be 8.5% plus or minus 1% year-over-year. At this point, let me remind you that in light of Regulation FD, Cisco will not comment on its financial guidance during the quarter unless it is done through an explicit public disclosure.

Now, let me give you some additional details on Q1 financial guidance. As we have said in the past, forecasting gross margins has always been challenging due to various factors such as volume, product mix, variable component costs, customer and channel mix and competitive pricing pressures. That being said, we believe total gross margin in Q1 will be approximately 65%. We believe Q1 operating expenses will be approximately 37% of revenue. This includes the impact of foreign exchange which continues to have a negative impact on our overall expense. We expect interest and other income to be approximately $175 million in the first quarter and our tax provision rate for Q1 is expected to be approximately 24%.

While we expect to continue our share repurchase program, it is difficult to predict the exact weighted average shares outstanding. We're modeling share count to be flat to down approximately 50 million in weighted average shares outstanding for EPS purposes. In this estimated share count, we're not taking into consideration any further change in stock price that could occur in the first quarter of fiscal year 2009. As a point of reference, a $1 increase in our average stock price would increase the calculated shares outstanding for purposes of determining earnings per share by approximately $16 million.

Regarding cash flow from operations, we would expect to generate $600 million to $800 million per month. For our Q1 FY 2009 GAAP earnings, we anticipate that Q1 GAAP EPS will be $0.04 to $0.06 per share lower than non-GAAP EPS, primarily due to the acquisition-related charges and stock compensation expense. Please see the slides that accompany this webcast for more detail.

Other than those items noted above, there are no other significant differences between GAAP and our non-GAAP guidance. This guidance assumes no additional acquisitions, asset impairments, restructuring and tax or other events which may or may not be significant.

Let me now turn the call back to John. John?

JOHN CHAMBERS: The following is a summary of my view of Cisco's momentum and opportunities entering Q1 of fiscal year 2009. In areas that we can control or influence, our momentum continues to be strong, especially in the areas of product leadership, innovation, and thought leadership. Balance given the global challenges continues to be good across our geographies, products, services, and customer segments. As we said before, even if the market slows, we don't see this changing our long-term growth targets if we execute the way we have in prior slowdowns.

As we head into the next fiscal year, we plan to be aggressively and investing in new and adjacent markets for the longer-term, regardless of how long it takes for the macroeconomic environment to rebound. We would not be investing aggressively if we thought this current slowdown was going to be long in duration and that we didn't have a high probability of achieving our 12% to 17% long-term growth objectives.

In terms of major areas where momentum would appear to be solid and the ease in possibly gaining momentum would be the following areas -- emerging markets including both our emerging market theater and emerging countries in Asia-Pacific such as China and India, Japan and service providers, next-generation network buildouts, collaboration and network enabled Web 2.0 acceptance and Cisco's leadership in our customers' minds and their beginning to implementations views, product pipeline and innovation leadership, and advanced technologies and emerging technologies. While there are many more positive areas than there are areas of concern, the areas that we continue to monitor closely are the US market and the possibility of these challenges in the US spreading to other geographies and service providers' long-term growth rates for capital expenditures.

On a global and US basis, we see the same challenges and uncertainties from an economic, political, and capital spending perspective that many of you continue to witness. While it's too early to indicate it as a trend, we're seeing progress in the US enterprise market. Total overall enterprise growth is possibly stabilizing. While growth still varies dramatically by industry, the large multinationals and financial institutions which were the first ones to decline almost a year ago in terms of their spending with us now are doing dramatically better. Just to share the data with you, in five of the last six quarters, these accounts which used to be called our Statement One accounts had negative growth or best case mid single-digit positive growth. In Q3 and now again in Q4, we saw the year-over-year growth rates comfortably in double digits. Time will tell if this is a trend and if it continues and evolves through the other industries within our enterprise segment.

The secondary that we're watching closely is service provider CapEx spending. One way to analyze CapEx growth is in capital expenditures as a percentage of total sales. The rate of growth in this area appears to be moderating; although, it varies dramatically from company to company and by geography. Where our technology and business partnership relationship and most of the service providers are continuing to get even stronger, there are clearly some very tough comparisons when you think about year-over-year growth to fiscal year 2007 Q4 and fiscal year 2008 Q1 and Q2 which had very strong year-over-year growth rates.

As an additional data point regarding the challenging comparisons, worldwide service provider orders have been growing for three years in a row at a very rapid rate. Fiscal year 2007 as an example grew approximately 40% year-over-year. Again, if the market does continue to slow, we believe this will not dramatically change our long-term opportunities and our vision of how the industry will evolve with our differentiated strategy. In fact, it is our intent to expand our share of customer spend during these corrections as we've done in the past. We also believe that our opportunities to expand in our current market and market adjacencies are actually increasing. This is true from a data center to the home market and from the service provider to the small business and consumer. Therefore, you'll continue to see us aggressively invest where appropriate while maintaining our focus on our financial models.

Once again, with our usual caveat as discussed earlier and in our financial reports, our Q1 fiscal year 2009 guidance is for year-over-year revenue growth in the 8% range. And for Q2 fiscal year 2009 guidance is for year-over-year revenue growth in the 8.5% range. We believe our long-term growth opportunities remain in the 12% to 17% range, again assuming our usual caveat. We will focus on what we can control and influence and attempt to position Cisco to gain momentum in market transitions whether they are industry consolidations, product transitions, market adjacency opportunities or economics. In summary, for those areas that we can control or influence we believe that our vision, strategy and execution are in great shape and producing results.

As always, I want to thank our shareholders, customers, employees, and partners for their support and continued confidence in our ability to execute during rapidly and changing industry consolidation, market transitions, and challenging economic times. Now, Blair, I would like to turn it over to you.

BLAIR CHRISTIE: Now at this point, we're going to open up the call to Q&A. And I will request that sell-side analysts please ask only one question. So, Kim, if you could go ahead and open up the lines, we'll start with the first question.

OPERATOR: (Operator Instructions). Tal Liani, Merrill Lynch.

TAL LIANI, ANALYST, MERRILL LYNCH: I have so many questions. First, I want to thank you for the level of disclosure. It's just unbelievable and I hope that other companies will do the same. I want to ask a general question about one sentence you put in the press release. You said that you have intentions to expand into adjacent markets. In this kind of environment, you want to take the opportunity. Would you mind to elaborate on this? First, do you have an appetite for a big acquisition or a series of small acquisitions? And second, what kind of areas are you interested in?

JOHN CHAMBERS: So breaking the information into three pieces. First, thank you very much for your feedback and Tal, you and others have been very candid with us about giving you more details. So we're attempting to do that and we appreciate very much you appreciating the value of it.

Secondly, in terms of areas we're going to expand into -- and Ned, I'm going to ask you to comment in just a little bit of moment on our concepts. We going to expand into areas in market adjacencies in every major customer segment -- in the home, in the small business, in the medium-sized commercial business, in the enterprise, and in the service provider. We will go as we said in the comments really from the data center to the home devices.

In terms of our strategy, innovation will continue to be defined as done internally in terms of expanding our existing product and evolving the market adjacencies internally in terms of startups where the emerging technology groups are really knocking the cover off the ball. Those numbers were fantastic in the three new emerging technologies that are growing in total over 300%. And, also, in terms of partnerships and you'll see us partner primarily big to big; you'll see us acquire primarily big to small to medium.

I would not rule out all four areas of growth in each of our customer segment groups. If you think about what we're going to do, we usually acquire as we move into new markets that we do not have the expertise or the product segments in. We tend to partner big to big. So, think of us partnering with companies like an IBM, a Microsoft, an Intel and EMC and Accenture, Emphasis, Wipro, Tata, companies of that type. Think of us acquiring more in the [Jim] -- Scientific-Atlanta type of range, the WebEx or ideal ones as Ned and I have always discussed is 100 engineers with a really hot product that's just about to come to market that some of our best customers say go buy and we'll buy a lot of.

Ned, maybe take it to the next step.

NED HOOPER, SVP, CORPORATE DEVELOPMENT AND CONSUMER GROUP, CISCO SYSTEMS: So we expect to continue to be very aggressive in using acquisitions as part of our build, buy and partner strategy to expand our presence in the markets. You've seen us continuing through the slowdown most recently with our acquisition of Pure Networks in the consumer market which positions us in the network home, both through retail and through the service provider delivered to provide the simplest, easiest to use and best customer experience. Great example, John, of a small acquisition where we were able to bring in a strong innovative engineering team to expand our additional markets. We will also, as you know with Scientific-Atlanta, WebEx, and others continue to use platform acquisitions to position ourselves in new markets going forward.

JOHN CHAMBERS: Thank you very much and I hope that answered your questions.

BLAIR CHRISTIE: We'll take the next questions please.

OPERATOR: Paul Mansky, Citigroup.

PAUL MANSKY, ANALYST, CITIGROUP: Obviously, John, congratulations. You did call the macro turndown I would argue probably first certainly out of the tech group (multiple speakers) --

JOHN CHAMBERS: You were simply wrong on that, Paul.

PAUL MANSKY: I prefer you have been very, very wrong on that actually. But, it looks as though you called it right. And yet, as we've got two quarters underneath our belt here, obviously you've fallen off your target rate of growth, although not as dramatically as some might have anticipated, while at the same time recognizing currency benefits that impact different companies at different paces. Very largely if I look at large cap tech and then I also look at your smaller direct competitors, companies certainly haven't been lowering numbers. So I was hoping just to get your perspective relative to what it is that Cisco may or may not be seeing that's unique and then just any color you could potentially provide around that. Because obviously I'm sure you pay pretty close attention to what your competitors both direct and indirect are doing.

JOHN CHAMBERS: So let me kind of take the overall geography question and kind of bringing it down to the specific questions at hand. The overall geography is what we're hearing when we look at an economic perspective. We mainly listen to what our customers are telling us and what our customers are telling us outside the US is largely that their GDP growth and the growth of their own business is pretty solid. That doesn't mean that some of the things going on in the US won't affect them. But if China grows from 13% growth to 11% or 11% to 9.5%, we and others are still going to do very well there.

And as we said earlier, it's the best balance we've seen in our emerging markets. And that's emerging markets, doesn't matter where it is in the world in Asia, in Latin America, Eastern Europe, Russia, CIS. And I'd be very surprised if we didn't see the Middle East and Africa bounce back very strongly this next year, so good balance there. It's actually been a pleasant surprise to us in areas like the UK where clearly they've had some of the same challenges the US did. Their growth over last quarter was very solid.

Areas like Germany, you really see the country investing for the future. And it looks very solid there. We experienced growth in the high 20s in Germany. In the US, it's really mixed. We have a certain number of our customers who actually say if it weren't for what they were hearing in the press, their business is very solid. And even their shareholders don't believe them when they say that but they say China really is. You have others who are a little bit more cautious and I think all of us understand that by industry segments, etc.

We do have some tough comps which ought to be taken into consideration when you look at our Q1 and Q2 growth, especially true in service provider where you went through three years in a row where the average quarter year-over-year growth was above 30%. And clearly, you have to absorb that capacity.

What percentage of CapEx say spend is a percentage of sales will vary a little bit on investments but you're seeing service provider network loads grow very, very rapidly. So, actually, our US enterprise was stronger than we expected this quarter. Our US service provider was a little bit weaker. But if I look at the total global scenario, it is probably going to be a little bit longer than we would have said six months ago. But still, most of my customers see it turning early next year and that's what we're listening to our customers and we're budgeting that way. We don't want to project that in terms of our yearly growth numbers until we see it occurring. And most likely even if we were, we'd miss what that number would be.

PAUL MANSKY: Completely understandable.

BLAIR CHRISTIE: Next question please.

OPERATOR: Nikos Theodosopoulos, UBS.

NIKOS THEODOSOPOULOS, ANALYST, UBS: My question, John, is several quarters ago when you mentioned that things were slowing a bit, it was more enterprise focused. And it seems like that part of your business now has stabilized and maybe bottomed and it's the service provider part of the business that gives you some caution. Is it safe to say in your discussion with your customers globally that the worst is behind us in enterprise and we just need to now get through the telco -- I'm sorry the service provider capital spending uncertainties or do you -- is there still some risk you think on the enterprise side? Thank you.

JOHN CHAMBERS: Well, let me start in reverse order. From the service provider perspective, our relationship has never been better. We're working with most all the large service providers around the world, not just in providing a technology product but beginning to evolve the technology architectures in considering going all the way from the home to their data centers and combining data, voice, video. The loads on their networks are starting to approach levels that many of them have said, John, you all probably call that one right even four or five years ago when you said the loads on networks wouldn't be 50% or 100% of multiple hundreds of percent as video really begins to take off.

The major challenge they face is how do they bring the economics to the loads on their networks. And so, when you build out with a capacity that people have said before, it takes a while to absorb that and it also takes a while for their service providers to transition from charging purely for individual voice connections or for bandwidth speeds to the services they put on top. But you're seeing most service providers begin to do that. That's a nice way of saying we would not anticipate service provider spending over the long run not returning into double digits. Time would tell if that's right or wrong.

In terms of the enterprise market, it really varies. Around the world, they've held up remarkably strong and they may be lumpy by an individual country at a given point in time, but pretty solid around the world. Again, our relationship with the CIOs around the world, we would get ranked usually number one of almost all IT and communication companies in any large surveys done in terms of everything from vision to customer sat. So we're positioned well.

In the US, I think it's a little bit too early to call the trend. I think we want to share with you and when you see US enterprise going from 6% to 13%, that's very positive. (inaudible) not forecasting those types of numbers yet for the future. And so, we'd like to watch at least another quarter before I would call it a trend. But if you do believe and we follow -- we try to follow everything that moves, the organizations that led us into this slowdown which were financial and the large multinationals who went through as I said earlier over a year of very sluggish growth to negative growth would be kind words, we've seen them upturn as a group. And we saw good balance across our enterprise market in five of the six theaters going from 8% to mid-20s%. So it's a nice way of saying we would like to say yes to your question. But no, I think it's going to take a little bit longer to play it out.

In summary, what we control the influence, we are pretty good. What we're pretty good at is predicting the overall additions of all of our balance of markets, although we often miss by customer segments or individual products. I hope that it helps explains a little bit. I wish a quarter from now I could give you a more definitive answer on the enterprise.

NIKOS THEODOSOPOULOS: That was perfect.

BLAIR CHRISTIE: Next question please.

OPERATOR: Simona Jankowski, Goldman Sachs.

SIMONA JANKOWSKI, ANALYST, GOLDMAN SACHS: John, I just wanted to understand a little bit the assumption behind your guidance. When I look at some of the metrics in your business last quarter, your orders by geography actually improved in a couple of the regions, like the United States and Asia. Also, your deferred revenues improved. Advanced Services were up nicely. Your book-to-bill was above 1. Clearly, there were areas of deceleration as well. But I was just curious how putting all those things together, how that comes out to a further deceleration in the business.

JOHN CHAMBERS: Frank, you want to take a crack at that?

FRANK CALDERONI: So as you pointed out, as we ended fiscal year 2008 for Q4, we do have -- but we're going into the Q1 with a stronger position as we look at our backlog and also the amount of deferred revenue that we've been able to build. I mentioned this quarter that we had deferred revenue growing at 26%. We had a comparable amount last quarter. So that really bodes well as we look into the future in building that kind of a base.

We've taken that in consideration. Although that's a good start point as we go into the quarter. But as John mentioned, we really have to call it as we see it and we take all that into consideration. While we did have some great growth and strength in the quarter, we also are looking at these tough compares, especially on the service provider that we're taking into consideration as we look at Q1 and Q2. And that is a factor that affects our growth rate. So, in balance, we feel fairly confident with what we see right now with the 8% plus or minus 1% and the 8.5% for the second quarter plus or minus 1%, it kind of gives us the right balance of the good, the positive as well as some of the areas where we have a little bit more challenge.

SIMONA JANKOWSKI: Maybe just to clarify that, was there anything about the linearity of the quarter judging by the decline in your Accounts Receivable or the DSOs that also suggested you should come out with this kind of guidance despite some of the metrics improving?

BLAIR CHRISTIE: Simona, I am going to ask that we catch up with you after the call because we have a lot of questions here. Next question please.

JOHN CHAMBERS: Simona, if you go ahead and ask it, I will answer it when the call is over.

OPERATOR: Jeff Evenson, Sanford Bernstein.

JEFF EVENSON, ANALYST, SANFORD BERNSTEIN: Related to that, your DSOs were lower, implying maybe there was a little bit lower sales toward the end of the quarter. Yet, you seem pretty confident in guiding the second quarter will have about 3.3% sequential growth using the midpoint of your numbers plus a higher year-over-year growth rate. Given that you are unlikely to be seeing anything macroeconomic that makes you much more confident about the fourth quarter, are you doing something internally, like new products or organizational issues, that gives you confidence to guide for the acceleration toward the end of the year?

JOHN CHAMBERS: A series of questions. First, it does feed into Simona's question as well. The DSOs were very solid but our order growth rate actually was very strong in July. So, it was probably a point or two above the normal percentage of business that comes in the third month of the quarter, especially in Q4. In terms of what gives us comfortability in terms of the direction, while there might be an occasional competitor that gains a little bit of market share in a category temporarily -- and by the way, that's healthy for the business because if the market isn't growing well, we aren't getting good competitors, we've got a bigger issue -- we actually feel very comfortable with where we're positioned in all the markets.

We do see collaboration of Web 2.0 starting to take hold. I personally believe that's going to be the biggest driver of our direction as a company over the next five to 10 years. And you now for the first time that I can remember as a CEO, you talk to other CEOs and they can actually gave an advertisement for me on collaboration and telepresence in terms of saying this is changing the way that I do business. This is the direction that we're going, etc.

Video is clearly the killer app here. When you think about the loads currently going on networks, these are largely downloads that are occurring today or one person to one person. If you begin to take concepts like telepresence where you have 10 different locations into a single meeting which I do pretty regularly now as an example and you begin to think about that occurring not only in the area of business but also to the home where you watch sporting events together from your home across multiple sites and do reruns etc., you begin to see, wow, our view of at least what we believe will be loads on the networks still will actually accelerate even though they are often in many of our accounts starting to hit the 200%, 250% range.

Third element is you're beginning to see balance and a lot of our strategies we're putting in place are occurring. Fourth element is that you are seeing easier comps. We had some very tough comps coming off of service providers in Q1 and Q2. They're a little bit more adjustable in Q3 and Q4. Although Pankaj, make no mistake about it, I want to get service providers back sustainably into the growth in the double digits. If we execute right, I expect us to.

It's a nice way of saying Jeff a lot of moving parts in my opinion, all of them that we can control or influence almost without exception are going in the right way. It doesn't mean for Cisco people who are listening on the phone we can't do better. But I think on what we can control the influence, it looks good. And our customers are also even saying this is the most likely scenario for them in terms of what they see occurring on the macro environment.

FRANK CALDERONI: Just a point of clarification that you mentioned about the DSOs. So we were very pleased with the DSO of 34 days in the quarter. We did report 39 days last quarter but we also noted that last quarter we had some of our service deals that impacted that. So we've had some comparable DSO in that 34 day range right now for a couple of quarters.

JOHN CHAMBERS: Just for people on the phone, as long as it's in the 30 to 40 day range -- I don't even ask Frank about it -- if it were to go on either side of that, I would say we are doing something unusual and we want to really think it through. So, Frank, congratulations to your all's team and the manufacturing team on that measurement.

BLAIR CHRISTIE: Next question please.

OPERATOR: Scott Coleman, Morgan Stanley.

SCOTT COLEMAN, ANALYST, MORGAN STANLEY: I'm wondering if we can focus on the router market for a minute, growth of 8% year-over-year. When you look at your competitors in this market, they're growing at much faster rates. I'm wondering if you have a reason behind that. Is it that they're more focused on the EDGE part of the market? Do you need to do something with the existing product portfolio over the next couple of quarters to drive that growth rate back higher? I'm just curious why the numbers are so divergent from your competitors.

JOHN CHAMBERS: Break into probably three or four segments of it. First is, if you watch our growth using high-end routers as an example, Pankaj, that the last five to six quarters we've gained market share on everyone. If you look at high-end, multi-chassis routers, our market share there is huge and in going into the large-scale deployment almost as fast as we can build them within it.

Secondly, even at our size, orders can be a little bit lumpy. So, that's using an example that's very real. We have a medium-size service provider who's a great Cisco partner that we're not losing market share in. But they did gain in a comparable quarter $125 million and in this quarter they'll probably do less than $20 million. So that's $100 million on our numbers. But if you look across the board, that's probably a 7% or 8% negative change in terms of the scenario on it.

Third is that I would probably challenge you a little bit in terms of sustainable gained by the majority of our router peers in the industry. We actually have been very effective on our peers and I'm real comfortable with the product range from the core to the EDGE. I do think we have to do a little bit more, Pankaj, into certain segments of the EDGE. So, the ASR 1000 I think has been very solid. We probably have a little bit of work to do in some of the other product areas and I wouldn't be mentioning that if I didn't expect us to close that gap as well.

I do however want to congratulate Juniper to your indirect part of your question. They had a very good quarter. They clearly would not with a new CEO coming in project growth to be actually accelerating at these levels and beyond and redo their guidance if they didn't feel comfortable with it. We do have to make it a little bit tougher for them in a couple of the service provider commercial accounts and we understand where those are and we will do a little bit better job competing in those. Pankaj, anything you want to add to that?

PANKAJ PATEL, SVP, GENERAL MANAGER, SERVICE PROVIDER GROUP, CISCO SYSTEMS: John, I think you called it very well. I think innovations and our R&D investment especially in the high-end like CRS-1 for a number of years now is being operated. I believe we have a pretty strong position in that and especially with the offering like multi-chassis, we excel pretty well. So I think what you pointed out earlier which is when it comes to the architectural called leadership systems end into end-to-end solutions that's gaining both the mind share and the market share. I don't think we have been in a better position than ever than we have been in this market.

FRANK CALDERONI: John, just to add one more point from a data point of view, not only the midsize service provider that you referenced but a very, very large service provider who gave us a record business in the first quarter of last year who will do very well this year, still the comps are extraordinary in that situation.

JOHN CHAMBERS: Yes, if you do the numbers and you add three years in a row of 30% year-over-year growth, you realize there's a lot of capacity. Scott, let me be very direct and bold here. I think we're going to lead in our architecture and router across the board. I think there might be very short gaps where somebody might have a feature or temporary advantage. I think over time you'll see us continue to be the clear leader in routing in all categories and our customers who we've disclosed our current and future plans to would probably agree with that.

Having said that, there's always a little bit of room for a couple of accounts that we know that one or two of our competitors did very well in. And if $100 million can swing us by 7% on our growth numbers, imagine what an incremental $50 million can do for one of our smaller peers to kind of put it in perspective. Nice way of saying congratulations to those peers that had a good quarter. We'll try to give them a little bit better run over this next year. And we have traditionally given them a very good run over the last couple.

BLAIR CHRISTIE: Next question please.

OPERATOR: Mark Sue, RBC Capital Markets.

MARK SUE, ANALYST, RBC CAPITAL MARKETS: John, there's a big difference between 8 and 12 and a bigger difference between 8 and 17. Is 12 to 17 just glass is half full optimism? And why do you still feel the current revenue contraction will be short-lived? And I ask since we're looking at four potential quarters of revenue growth below your long-term growth guidance and the short-term is starting to feel pretty long.

JOHN CHAMBERS: First, Mark, I realize that in many markets and especially in some of the markets that our shareholders who make these decisions are measured in, you are often measured by the quarter or by the year. I make no decisions by the quarter and very few by the year. I make all my decisions, 3, 5, 7 years out. And, if you watch what we've been able to do, our growth projections over 17 years have been remarkably accurate. And, there are periods of time more often than not where we actually exceed our growth projections versus those where we are operating a little bit underneath them.

If you can grow in the 8% to 10% range, just for purpose of the discussion, when your market that represents one-third of your business is growing in mid single digits in the US which represents 50% of your business is growing at about 7%, I would challenge the reverse way. I would say Mark, and I know you are challenging me on this in a very positive way that the 12% to 15% might be a little bit low in terms of what the opportunities are.

So, I see nothing that has changed my view on the 12% to 17% range. In fact, if you knew what's occurring on a geography basis, it's a little bit like that game that you used to play in the carnival with Whack-A-Mole where now it's automated. No sooner do we put one of those challenges or opportunities down than another one pops up. But eventually, we will get them in sequence.

And so, if you can grow in the 8% to 10% range without currency effects and if you have your expenses being hampered by Frank I think it's about 2.5% a quarter, you get hit negatively on the expenses because of currency. As currency begins to balance out as the economy in the US comes around and it will and we might have active discussion, is it one quarter to two quarters or is it three quarters or four quarters out, then I would actually say those numbers look pretty to very reasonable in terms of the expectation. I can tell you now however if you try to add up each one of the variables, it's very difficult to say exactly what the growth will be. We're pretty good at portfolio management, not as good as signaling to each one of the individual variables.

So, in summary, if you were to look at 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, the vast majority of the time the numbers have actually run ahead of our guidance and at the upper end of the range.

BLAIR CHRISTIE: Next question please.

OPERATOR: Ehud Gelblum, JPMorgan.

EHUD GELBLUM, ANALYST, JPMORGAN: A couple of things. If you look at the cash flow guidance that Frank gave of 600 million to 800 million a month, you're usually saying 700 million to 900 million a month and I'm assuming that's correlated with the guidance that Frank gave for next quarter on the gross margin and the OpEx that points to an operating margin of 28%, a little bit below the 29.5% sort of range that you had before. My guess is that those are two sides of the same point.

Can you give us a sense as to where the extra expense is going and why you gave guidance like this two quarters ago and it turned out that you didn't do it. It turned out you actually did your 29.5% operating margin and not the 28%. Do you expect that your OpEx -- and if you can give us a little sense as to where it will be stepped up because it sounds like it's costing roughly 300 million a quarter to 100 million per month and why you feel the right thing to do is to spend more money and in what areas during these times of slow revenue growth? That would be helpful; I'd appreciate it.

JOHN CHAMBERS: Frank, I'm going to give you that easy question and have you do it. And each of the members sitting around the team from engineering to sales are saying, we would like to have more as well. So kind of take it within the parameter; then, I might kind of sum her up after you do it.

FRANK CALDERONI: So John, clearly over the last two quarters --

JOHN CHAMBERS: You're just being conservative.

FRANK CALDERONI: A little both. But over the last two quarters with the uncertainty in the macroeconomic environment, we try to be extra cautious as far as looking at and focus on spending across the board. And so, as we continue to make investments, we were more prudent as far as selecting those investments. We have those two quarters behind us. As we've mentioned on the call today, both John and I talked about this, in going into the new fiscal year, we're making investments for our innovation for the long-term. There are so many different opportunities that we're looking at in our portfolio. We've spent a tremendous amount of time, especially over the last six months, while we were managing our expense, looking at the opportunity and what the payback was going to be over longer-term.

It really goes back to the question that John just answered about the 12% to 17%. We feel very confident in that 12% to 17%. And in order for us to deliver on that 12% to 17%, we need to make investments in driving the innovation to go after that. We've got our portfolio in place. We're into a new fiscal year. We've got that all portioned out as far as where we're going to be making those investments, many of which John talked about on the call, especially in advanced technology, emerging technologies, solutions opportunities especially services is where we're growing on a global basis. So, there are many opportunities. The right thing that we have to keep in control as we move forward is making the right trade-off in that portfolio. And we're ready to do that.

JOHN CHAMBERS: So if you really think about it from a mathematical point of view, we've talked about it before in terms of our collaborative approach to market opportunities instead of doing one or two cross functional a year, we're going to do almost two dozen. Out of this two dozen, I would have to look at it mathematically but I would say at least half have no material effect on our top line for at least two years out. So if you look at the investments we're making and we're making them on a larger front than ever before and we're actually accelerating the market adjacencies that we're moving into as well as the new market opportunities and I would argue with a tremendous success rate.

Just use telepresence as an example. But Martin and team have been spending in telepresence for a two year development cycle. And then, the best we've ever had $1 billion product come to market is five years later in a new market area, they are very likely to beat that with all the appropriate caveats in terms of the run rates.

So we're investing and we're investing in a portfolio play. We're investing very broad. It goes back to I think it was Mark who was doing it in a constructive way exercising me about my comfort level which is going to 17%. If I were just doing routers and switches and a little bit of advanced technologies, I would say fair challenge. But look at where we're moving and our success rate of not only moving there and becoming rapid growth with a great profitability but also becoming the number one player in doing what we said. It's been really good.

So, if I were a shareholder and I was really saying, you run it like it was a private company and look where the stock is two or three years out, I would actually probably be more aggressive on the expenses. And that's where I think both Frank and I and the rest of the team are a little bit conservative. But, you'll see us spend the money. We're going to be aggressive and you will also see us if we execute versus our past with a pretty good hit rate. In fact, at the current hit rate Ned is a little bit higher than I would like. I would like to take a little bit more risk because so far we've been remarkably accurate.

EHUD GELBLUM: So we should assume that when revenue growth goes above 10%, operating margin goes back to 29.5%?

JOHN CHAMBERS: I'm not going to tie it down. We'll give you ranges as we go through it. But we could bring operating profits down to again up to whatever level we wanted very quickly. We will always balance our opportunities versus our long-term growth objectives, etc. I have no problem with growth opportunities. My problem is the reverse. How do we spend across the whole Company, not just in R&D as we move into new areas? Because Rick has to spend on go to market. Service has to spend on it. Manufacturing has to spend. Each of our groups have to invest into it. So, as you move into this many markets, it takes a little bit more time to be effective on it.

BLAIR CHRISTIE: Next question please.

OPERATOR: Paul Silverstein, Credit Suisse.

PAUL SILVERSTEIN, ANALYST, CREDIT SUISSE: John, I thought I just heard you say that telepresence is going to be $1 billion market in less than five years which hasn't happened before. The question is, I'm hoping you can give us a little more insight in terms of the base of business today on these new growth drivers, telepresence, Nexus, which I know you just started shipping -- and I suspect the numbers are extremely small -- and application network services. And can you also give us some insight relative to your comment about telepresence what type of impact you think these products could have over the next couple of years as well as that longer five year timeframe?

JOHN CHAMBERS: Again, it's very difficult to do by individual products but our ability to add up the total gets pretty dramatic. So, I would say in many ways Paul, it's like when we first moved into advanced technology several years going and you saw how successful we were across-the-board, each of us would have probably got those six technology growth rates wrong. But in total, they were remarkably sustainable. And for five of the six, they actually exceeded our expectations and continue to grow extremely well.

I will use one example and then maybe in future calls we can expand further. If I were to look at the three emerging technology groups as an example, they grew 300% year-over-year in terms of orders. They are at a run rate of about $200 million now. And, using telepresence as an example, it is at a run rate of 500% year-over-year growth. The total of the three are actually at a 300% year-over-year growth. So, it gets kind of confusing if I were to throw more valuables in but that's kind of a sampling of how we approach it and a pretty good track record on doing it.

The IP phone is an example. I don't know if one of you have the data in front of you but if you look at Unified Communications for us at the present time, its run rate I think is about 2 billion type of run rate. It was a market that we didn't really even really address aggressively five or six years ago. So we've shown an ability to go into that pretty quickly. Frank is in the meantime paging through his book frantically to make sure I've got that number right. And, if we didn't, we'll correct it a little bit later.

PAUL SILVERSTEIN: John, I'm not trying to put words in your mouth but did you say that you thought telepresence could be a $1 billion product in the next five years? And if you did say that, is that direct revenues and the indirect impact on your switching and router business or is that just direct?

JOHN CHAMBERS: That's just direct revenues. And I think I've got to add all the caveats that we're all very much aware of that if there's one product that really captures people's imagination, it's telepresence. And it speaks to the role of video and communications. 60% of the way you communicate is nonverbal. It's about video and that loads the heck out of networks and you're just beginning to see what's capable with telepresence. And so today, while you see the typical ones that probably each of you have seen, you have not seen our movement into the home which we're clearly going to do. Probably a couple of you have seen it on YouTube with [Nurly] doing a virtual hologram, being able to virtually appear onstage together with people that are either in other parts of the world or actually time shifted into those roles.

So while it's not a sure thing and obviously I expect very good execution and there's always a portfolio play here, the one product I feel with the highest probability of hitting that $1 billion run rate in a new area that we haven't been before is probably telepresence. The other products, Paul, it's early in the cycle. So when you think about data center, there's always a slow uptake when you bring in brand-new products into the data center. Our feedback on the customers and you've seen the awards we won, the Nexus 5000, Nexus 7000 look really good.

BLAIR CHRISTIE: We have time for one more question.

OPERATOR: Tim Long, Banc of America.

TIM LONG, ANALYST, BANC OF AMERICA: If I could just follow back on the Unified Communication comments, obviously, it continues to be strong there. Just give us a little color John where you think we are in this cycle and how the economy is going to maybe influence some of those upgrades. And also, you get this question every quarter if you could just talk to the pull-through of switching that you are seeing on the Unified Communications side, that would be great. Thank you.

JOHN CHAMBERS: Yes, the run rate on Unified Communications, actually the number for the year was above 2.5 billion on the order rate. So, the run rate you all have seen over a period of time, it varies. Some of the areas like the IP telephony is a given and people will spend on that during good times and during bumps, maybe not quite as much during the bumps as the good times. But that is a role that I think it's pretty much a given that the phones of the future will be IP and they won't describe them as phones. They will probably describe them as a combination of data, voice, video, wired and wireless flexibility within that.

The second part of the question I missed.

BLAIR CHRISTIE: Was around the broader market and how the impact (multiple speakers) --

JOHN CHAMBERS: So, for new technologies and let's use telepresence as an example, during stronger economic times, it's a lot easier for people to put in a pilot group of 20 systems and then take them to 100 during a little bit of tougher economic times until they experience it and beginning to get their base, it's a little bit longer ramp-up in terms of what might occur. So that's the nice way of saying in areas that have a very quick ROI that the customer feels pretty comfortable with, they spend either way during areas that are a little bit more based on productivity and collaboration I think we've got a little bit more work to go.

But, that's a very appropriate one to end on because what has changed most of all in the last six months is the conversations on collaboration of Web 2.0. It move from theoretical or pilot based more toward our leading-edge customers saying help me implement it. Which sequence do we go in? How do I get there? That's true, both in the enterprise and in the service provider environment.

So, I want to thank everyone and Blair maybe turn it over to you for final closing. Please give us feedback on what you thought of the new format. We tried to be a little bit more [net] and leave a little bit more time for a healthy give and take in the Q&As. Don't hesitate to share with us what areas you want to see us improve on. But in summary, what we can control or influence I feel very good about. And our growth opportunities I think is more a prioritization on execution than having opportunities to go at. And I think that's really unique in the industry as a whole. So Blair, back to you.

BLAIR CHRISTIE: Cisco's next quarterly conference call which will reflect our first-quarter fiscal year 2009 results will be on Wednesday, November 5, 2008 at 1:30 PM Pacific, 4:30 PM Eastern Time. Additionally, downloadable Q4 financial statements as I said before will be available following this call, including revenue segments by product and geography, income statements, full GAAP to non-GAAP reconciliation information, balance sheet, and cash flow statements can be found on our website in the Investor Relations section. Just click on the financial section of the website to access those.

Again, I would like to remind you that in light of regulation fair disclosure, Cisco plans to retain its long-standing policy to not comment on its financial guidance during the quarter unless it is done through an explicit public disclosure. Please call the Investor Relations Department with any follow-up questions from this call and thank you for your participation and continued support. This does conclude our call.

OPERATOR: Thank you for participating on today's conference call. If you would like to listen to the call in its entirety, you may call 866-357-4205. For participants dialing from outside the US, please dial 203-369-0122. You may disconnect at this time.

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Company / organization: Name: Cisco Systems Inc; Ticker: CSCO; NAICS: 334119, 511210; DUNS: 15-380-4570; Name: Thomson Financial; NAICS: 551111

Publication title: Fair Disclosure Wire; Linthicum

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 5, 2008

Publisher: CQ Roll Call

Place of publication: Linthicum

Country of publication: United States, Linthicum

Publication subject: Business And Economics, Law--Corporate Law

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

ProQuest document ID: 466160986

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Copyright: 2008 CCBN, Inc. and FDCH e-Media, Inc.

Last updated: 2018-02-23

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 216 of 313

Event Brief of Q4 2008 Cisco Systems Earnings Conference Call - Final

Publication info: Fair Disclosure Wire ; Linthicum [Linthicum]05 Aug 2008.

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PARTICIPANTS

. Blair Christie, Cisco Systems, SVP, Corporate Communications . John Chambers, Cisco Systems, Chairman, CEO . Frank Calderoni, Cisco Systems, CFO . Tal Liani, Merrill Lynch, Analyst . Ned Hooper, Cisco Systems, SVP, Corporate Development and Consumer Group . Paul Mansky, Citigroup, Analyst . Nikos Theodosopoulos, UBS, Analyst . Simona Jankowski, Goldman Sachs, Analyst . Jeff Evenson, Sanford Bernstein, Analyst . Scott Coleman, Morgan Stanley, Analyst . Pankaj Patel, Cisco Systems, SVP, General Manager, Service Provider Group . Mark Sue, RBC Capital Markets, Analyst . Ehud Gelblum, JPMorgan, Analyst . Paul Silverstein, Credit Suisse, Analyst . Tim Long, Banc of America, Analyst

OVERVIEW

Co. reported 4Q08 revenue of $10.4b. GAAP net income was $2b and GAAP fully diluted EPS was $0.33 in 4Q08.

FINANCIAL DATA

A. Key Data From Call 1. FY08 revenue = $39.5b. 2. 4Q08 revenue = $10.4b. 3. FY08 GAAP net income = $8.1b. 4. FY08 non-GAAP net income = $9.6b. 5. 4Q08 GAAP net income = $2b. 6. 4Q08 non-GAAP net income = $2.4b. 7. FY08 GAAP fully diluted EPS = $1.31. 8. FY08 non-GAAP fully diluted EPS = $1.56. 9. 4Q08 GAAP fully diluted EPS = $0.33. 10. 4Q08 non-GAAP fully diluted EPS = $0.40. 11. FY08 total non-GAAP GM = 65.4%. 12. 4Q08 non-GAAP GM = 65.2%. 13. 4Q08-end DSO = 34 days. 14. 4Q08-end total inventory = $1.2b. 15. 4Q08-end total of cash, cash equivalents, and investments = $26.2b. 16. FY08 share repurchase = $10.4b of common stock or 372m shares at an avg. price of $27.80. 17. 4Q08 share repurchase = $1.35b of common stock or 54m shares at an avg. price of $25.11 per share.

PRESENTATION SUMMARY

S1. Business Review (J.C.) 1. Introductory Comment: 1. Continues to be comfortable with long-term growth projections at 12-17% and revenue guidance going forward. 2. FY08 Highlights: 1. Revenue was a record $39.5b, 13% YoverY increase. 2. Cash generated from operations was $12.1b, 20% YoverY increase. 3. Non-GAAP EPS was $1.56, 16% YoverY increase. 4. GAAP EPS was $1.31, 12% YoverY increase. 3. FY08 Order Growth: 1. Product order growth was approx. 12%. 2. Service order growth was approx. 25%. 3. Product book-to-bill was above 1. 4. Geographical Mix: 1. Emerging countries' focus continued with solid momentum. 1. China order growth was approx. 30%. 2. India order growth was 32%. 3. Mexico had order growth of 32%. 4. Russia grew 23%. 5. Brazil grew 48%. 2. Emerging countries in Asia in total grew approx. 28%, that is Co.'s Asia-Pacific operations not counting Korea, Austria, and New Zealand. 3. Emerging market theater which consists of Eastern Europe, Latin America, Middle East and Africa, and Russia and CIS grew in total approx. 19%. 4. Asia-Pacific in total grew approx. 20%. 5. European market grew approx. 13%. 6. US and Canada, order growth was 9%. 7. Japan grew 5%. 4. FY08 Product Revenue Growth: 1. Routing revenues grew 14% YoverY lead by high-end routing with CRS growth of approx. 119%. 2. Switching grew [7%] YoverY. 3. Advanced Technologies grew 21% YoverY, led by: 1. Unified Communications with growth of approx. 51%. 2. Application Networking Services with growth of approx. 36%. 5. FY08 Customer Segment Order Growth: 1. Enterprise public sector order growth was approx. 10% YoverY. 2. Commercial continued strong at 20% growth YoverY. 3. Service providers grew approx. 10% YoverY. 6. 4Q08 Highlights: 1. Revenue was a record $10.4b, approx. 10% YoverY increase. 1. Co.'s first $10b qtr. from a revenue perspective. 2. Cash generated from operations was $3.5b. 3. Non-GAAP EPS was $0.40, 11% YoverY increase. 4. GAAP EPS was $0.33, 6% YoverY increase. 5. Non-GAAP GM was solid at 65.2%. 6. Non-GAAP OpEx as a percentage of revenue was 35.7%. 7. 4Q08 YoverY Order Growth: 1. Product order growth was approx. 10%. 2. Service order growth was approx. 20%. 3. Product book-to-bill was comfortably above 1. 4. Geographical Mix: 1. Emerging countries focus, where orders tend to be variable, continued at solid momentum. 2. Co. achieved better balanced results across majority of emerging countries than it had seen in recent quarters. 3. China order growth was over 30%. 4. India growth was approx. 20%. 5. Mexico and Russia both had order growth [of about] 40%. 6. Brazil grew approx. 30%. 7. Emerging countries in Asia-Pacific theater, not counting Korea, Australia and New Zealand in the total number, in total grew approx. 23%. 8. Emerging market theater which does not include Asia grew in total approx. 10%. 9. Asia-Pacific in total grew 19%. 10. Japan, after a very strong 3Q08, grew YoverY at 10%. 11. European markets grew approx. 11%. 12. US and Canada orders grew approx. 7%. 8. 4Q08 Product Revenue Growth: 1. Routing revenue grew 8% YoverY lead by high-end routing with CRS-1 growth of approx. 85%. 2. Switching grew 5% YoverY. 3. Advanced Technologies grew 15% YoverY lead by: 1. Unified Communications with growth of approx. 29%. 2. Application Networking Services with growth of approx. 30%. 9. 4Q08 Emerging Technologies Update: 1. Co.'s strategy is to develop a reasonable percentage of these technologies into advanced technologies with a realistic possibility of becoming: 1. $1b plus in sales. 2. Number 1 market position in respective product categories. 2. In total, grew approx. 300% YoverY. 3. Order Growth Rate Breakout: 1. Telepresence grew approx. 500% YoverY. 2. Digital media systems grew approx. 200% YoverY. 3. Physical security grew approx. 250% YoverY. 10. 4Q08 Customer Segment Order Growth: 1. Enterprise public sector orders growth was approx. 10% YoverY with: 1. Enterprise area growing approx. 13% on a global basis. 2. Public sector growing 4% YoverY. 2. Commercial orders continued strong at 17% growth YoverY. 3. Service providers grew approx. 5%. 4. US enterprise orders grew YoverY at 13% vs. 6% in 3Q08. 11. Outlook: 1. Is seeing network-enabled collaborative business process changes and productivity increases begin to gain traction on a global basis. 2. Co.'s confidence in 12-17% long-term growth range remains strong. 3. Sees mixed signals in the market from both a US perspective and other parts of the world in terms of: 1. Economic momentum. 2. Stock market behavior. 3. Energy costs. 4. Confidence changes. 4. From a service provider perspective, which now represents approx. one-third of Co.'s total product business, FX expenditures signals are mixed, both by companies and geographies. 5. With shift to IP networks firmly having taken hold, Co. believes it is strongly positioned with global service providers more than it has ever been before from a technology and a business partner perspective. 6. Co.'s service provider customers are often in one of three phases. 1. Those that over last several years have built out very large IP networks and are in the process of loading those networks and adding services. 2. Those at the start of either their first next-generation IP build-out or even their second next-generation IP build-out. 3. Those that are slowing CapEx until they achieve more topline growth. 4. Regardless of which state these companies are in, Co. thinks Co. is in a very good position to capture a larger percentage of their total spend. 12. Revenue Guidance: 1. Co. will always be affected by: 1. Major economic changes. 2. CapEx patterns. 3. New and existing competitors. 4. Co.'s ability to execute or not on strategy and other factors. 2. During each of economic slowdown in last 15 years, CSCO has always navigated through them very effectively. 1. Did this in 1993, 1997, 2001 and 2003. 1. In each scenario Co. gained both wallet share and profit share. 2. As a result, Co. was better positioned coming out of the transitions vs. peers. 3. Will continue to be aggressive in investments during this slowdown. 1. Co.'s best estimate is this is a relatively short challenge going forward. 2. CSCO will use this time as an opportunity to: 1. Expand its share of customer spend. 2. Be aggressive about moving into new market adjacencies. 4. Co.'s best estimate is that the current economic challenges will remain with it for the next few quarters. 5. 1Q09 Guidance: 1. Revenue growth in 8% range YoverY. 6. 2Q09 Guidance: 1. Revenue growth in 8.5% range YoverY. 13. Strategy: 1. Believes, Co. is entering next phase of Internet as growth and productivity will center on collaboration enabled by network Web 2.0 technologies. 2. Would do best to provide the product architectures and expertise to help Co.'s customers in implementation of the elaborately collaborative capabilities from a technology and a business perspective. 1. Will share with customers how Co. has done this internally. 3. Is going to attempt to execute Co.'s strategy over the next decade that is very similar to what it did in the early '90s. 1. It powered Co.'s growth for entire decade except for the obvious differences this time of being a co. that is now at a run rate of approx. $40b with over 66,000 employees focused on this opportunity.

S2. Financial Review (F.C.) 1. 4Q08 Results: 1. Total revenue was $10.4b, up approx. 10% YoverY at high-end of guidance of 9-10%. 1. Co.'s first $10b revenue qtr. 2. Routing revenue was $2b, up 8% YoverY. 1. Due primarily to continued growth in Co.'s high-end router portfolio at 12% YoverY with particular strength in CRS-1 growth of approx. 85% YoverY. 3. Switching revenue was $3.5b, up 5% YoverY driven by growth in Fixed Switching portfolio. 4. Advanced Technologies revenue totaled $2.6b, representing increase of 15% YoverY led by strong performance in: 1. Unified Communications of 29% YoverY growth. 2. Application Networking Services growth of approx. 30% YoverY. 5. Other product revenue totaled $551m, up 9% YoverY. 6. Total service revenue was $1.7b, up approx. [16%] YoverY with solid growth across all geographies. 7. Growth in Advanced Services, approx. 23%. 8. Total revenue growth by geography within a range of 5% YoverY in US and Canada to a high of 42% in emerging markets. 1. Emerging markets revenue growth was higher than order growth rate, due to increased shipments and recognition of previously deferred revenue. 2. 4Q08 Margins: 1. Total non-GAAP GM, 65.2%. 1. Down slightly QoverQ and flat on YtoY basis. 2. For product only, non-GAAP GM was 65.3%. 1. Down 0.6 point QoverQ and up slightly YoverY. 3. Non-GAAP service margin was 64.7%, up from 62.7% last qtr. 1. Service margins will typically experience some variability over time due to various factors such as: 1. Changes in mix between technical support services and advanced services. 2. Timing of support contract initiations and renewals. 4. Total GM by geography ranged from 62.6% for emerging markets to 70.9% in Japan. 1. Across the geographies, margins have remained relatively stable over last few quarters. 3. 4Q08 OpEx: 1. Non-GAAP OpEx as a percentage of revenue, approx. 35.7%, up from 35.5% in 4Q07. 2. FX impact was $82m vs. 4Q07, which added approx. 0.8 points to the ratio. 3. Excluding FX, non-GAAP OpEx grew 8% YoverY. 4. Will continue to invest in areas that Co. believes will drive future growth and innovation, while remaining focused on prudently managing discretionary spending. 4. 4Q08 Interest & other income: 1. Was $157m vs. $228m for 4Q07. 1. Decline was due to market conditions which resulted in lower gains from: 1. Sale of public equity investments. 2. Lower interest rates. 2. Remains pleased with high quality and conservative risk profile of Co.'s investment portfolio. 5. Tax: 1. 4Q08 non-GAAP tax provision rate was $25.6%, reflecting realignment of foreign subsidiaries. 2. For full-year, non-GAAP tax rate was 23.1%, reflecting benefit reported in 1Q08 related to a tax audit settlement. 1. Excluding this settlement, full-year non-GAAP tax rate would be approx. 24%. 6. 4Q08 Other Financials: 1. Non-GAAP net income was $2.4b vs. $2.3b in 4Q07. 1. Represents 6% increase on YtoY basis. 2. Non-GAAP fully diluted EPS was $0.40, up from $0.36 in 4Q07, 11% increase YoverY. 3. GAAP net income was $2b vs. $1.9b in 4Q07. 4. GAAP fully diluted EPS was $0.33, up from $0.31 in 4Q07. 7. FY08 Performance: 1. Total revenue was $39.5b, up approx. 13% over FY07 revenue of $34.9b. 2. Routing revenue ended the year at $7.9b, up 14% YoverY with strong growth in CRS-1 revenue, up approx. 119% YoverY. 3. Switching revenue was $13.3b, up 7% over FY07. 4. Advanced Technologies revenue grew 21% YoverY to $9.7b. 5. Total services revenue was $6.4b, growth of approx. 18%. 6. Total non-GAAP GM was 65.4%, up 0.6 point YoverY. 1. For product only, non-GAAP GM was up 0.8 YoverY due to higher cost savings and shipment volumes, partially offset by discounts in pricing. 7. Non-GAAP OpEx as a percentage of revenue were approx. 35.9%, up from 35.2% in FY07. 1. FX impact was approx. $332m vs. 4Q07 which added approx. 0.8 point to the ratio. 8. Non-GAAP net income was $9.6b, up approx. 14% from FY07 non-GAAP net income of $8.4b. 9. Non-GAAP fully diluted EPS was $1.56, up from $1.34 in FY07. 1. Represents 16% increase YoverY. 10. GAAP net income was $8.1b or $1.31 per share on a fully diluted basis vs. $7.3b or $1.17 per share on a fully diluted basis in FY07. 1. Represents 10% and 12% increases YoverY respectively. 11. FY08-end product backlog was $4.8b vs. $3.9b at FY07-end. 8. Balance Sheet: 1. 4Q08-end total of cash, cash equivalents, and investments was $26.2b, up $1.8b from 3Q08. 2. During 4Q08, generated $3.5b in cash flow from operations and $616m in proceeds from stock option exercises and employee stock purchases. 3. For full FY08, generated $12.1b of cash from operations. 4. For 4Q08, repurchased $1.35b of common stock or 54m shares of Co.'s stock at an avg. price of $25.11 per share. 5. For full FY08, repurchased $10.4b of common stock or 372m shares of stock at an avg. price of $27.80. 6. Ended the qtr. with approx. $8.4b remaining in current stock repurchase authorization. 7. AR at qtr.-end, $3.8b, down 9% from 3Q08. 8. At 4Q08-end, DSO was 34 days vs. 39 days in 3Q08. 9. 4Q08-end total inventory was $1.2b, down 3% from 3Q08. 10. Non-GAAP inventory turns improved from 10.7 last qtr. to a record 11.5 turns this qtr. 1. Inventory purchase commitments at 4Q08-end were $2.7b, relatively flat from 3Q08-end. 11. 4Q08-end deferred revenue was $8.9b, up $270m from 3Q08 and $1.8b from 4Q07. 1. Represents growth of 26% from 4Q07. 12. Deferred product revenue was $2.7b, down $165m from last qtr. 13. Deferred service revenue was $6.1b, up $435m from last qtr. 14. 4Q08-end headcount totaled 66,129. 1. Net increase of approx. 900 from 3Q08. 2. Increases were primarily the results of hires in: 1. Engineering. 2. Sales. 3. Services. 9. Summary: 1. Co. plans to continue investments in diversified technology portfolio while maintaining proven focus on profitability to: 1. Take advantage of market transitions. 2. Drive toward Co.'s long-term growth target of 12-17% over next 3-5 years.

S3. 4Q08 Geographies, Customer Segments & Product Review (J.C.) 1. 4Q08 Geographic & Customer Segment Order Growth: 1. Asia-Pacific order growth was solid at approx. 19% YoverY. 1. Growth in China was about 30% and India was approx. 20%. 2. Korea was flat. 3. Australia and New Zealand grew approx. 15% YoverY. 4. Rest of Asia grew approx. 17%. 2. Enterprise grew in high-teens. 3. Asia-Pacific public sector grew 20%. 4. Service provider grew 10%. 5. Commercial, approx. 30%. 6. Japan continued solid momentum with growth of approx. 10% following a strong 3Q08 where they experienced growth of about 20%. 1. Leading the way was service provider with growth of about 25% which represents approx. half of total business in Japan. 2. Enterprise, public sector, and commercial were relatively flat. 7. Europe had growth of approx. 11% despite a more challenging economic environment. 1. Balance was relatively good by customer segments within some of the key countries. 2. Commercial growth was 16%. 3. Enterprise growth was 12%. 4. Public sector was 7%. 5. Service provider growth was 9% YoverY. 6. Germany led the way with growth in upper-20s. 7. The UK and the Netherlands had growth in low-teens. 8. Spain had growth of approx. 20%. 9. Italy was down slightly. 8. US order growth was approx. 7% YoverY. 1. Enterprise growth, not including public sector, was approx. 13%. 2. Commercial was approx. 14%. 3. Service provider, which had very tough comparisons in 4Q07, was flat. 4. Public sector YoverY order growth was down approx. 6%. 5. Enterprise segment grew approx. 13%. 6. Balance was good across the six US enterprise areas, with five of the six growing from the high single digits to approx. 23% YoverY. 9. Co. was very pleased with the balance across all emerging market countries. 1. Emerging market theater grew approx. 10% YoverY. 2. Emerging market theater does not include emerging countries in Asia, such as China which grew approx. 30% YoverY and India which grew approx. 20% YoverY. 3. Three of the four geographies had YoverY growth in the high-teens to mid-20s. 1. These included Eastern Europe, Latin America, and Russia/CIS. 4. Growth can be variable in terms of the countries or segments in the emerging markets. 10. Middle East and Africa growth was down approx. 5% YoverY. 2. YoverY 4Q08 Products Revenue Growth: 1. Routers in total grew approx. 8% led by high-end router growth of 12% and mid-range router growth of approx. 10%. 1. Low-end router growth was relatively flat. 2. Switching grew approx. 5% with modular switches flat and fixed switches growing at approx. 10% YoverY. 3. Advanced Technologies growth was solid. 4. Security grew approx. 10%. 5. Network home grew in mid-20s. 6. Unified Communication grew 29%. 7. Wireless grew 13%. 8. Storage was down approx. 14%. 9. Application Networking Services grew approx. 30%. 10. Video systems grew approx. 7%. 11. Total for all Advanced Technologies was 15% YoverY growth.

S4. Guidance (J.C.) 1. Highlights: 1. At this time, will provide revenue guidance for 1H09 rather than for entire FY09 until it becomes more comfortable with predictability of when Co. believes its revenue growth rates will accelerate back toward long-range guidance of 12-17%. 2. Anticipates total revenue growth for 1Q09 to be 8% plus or minus 1% YoverY. 3. Revenue growth for 2Q09 is expected to be 8.5% plus or minus 1% YoverY. 1. In light of Regulation FD, CSCO will not comment on its financial guidance during qtr. unless it is done through an explicit public disclosure. 2. 1Q09 Guidance: 1. Forecasting GM has always been challenging, due to various factors such as: 1. Volume. 2. Product mix. 3. Variable component costs. 4. Customer and channel mix. 5. Competitive pricing pressures. 2. Total GM will be approx. 65%. 3. OpEx will be approx. 37% of revenue. 1. Includes impact of FX, which continues to have a negative impact on overall expense. 4. Interest and other income to be approx. $175m. 5. Tax provision rate to be approx. 24%. 6. While expects to continue share repurchase program, it is difficult to predict the exact weighted avg. shares outstanding. 1. Modeling share count to be flat-to-down approx. 50m in weighted avg. shares outstanding for EPS purposes. 2. In this estimated share count, Co. is not taking into consideration any further change in stock price that could occur in 1Q09. 1. $1 increase in avg. stock price would increase the calculated shares outstanding for purposes of determining EPS by approx. $16m. 7. Cash Flow from Operations: 1. Expects to generate $600-800m per month. 8. GAAP EPS will be $0.04-0.06 per share lower than non-GAAP EPS, primarily due to: 1. Acquisition-related charges. 2. Stock compensation expense. 1. Other than these items noted above, there are no other significant differences between GAAP and non-GAAP guidance. 3. This guidance assumes no additional acquisitions, asset impairments, restructuring and tax or other events, which may or may not be significant.

S5. Summary (J.C.) 1. Momentum & Opportunities: 1. In areas that Co. can control or influence, momentum continues to be strong, especially in areas of: 1. Product leadership. 2. Innovation. 3. Thought leadership. 2. Balance given the global challenges continues to be good across: 1. Geographies. 2. Products. 3. Services. 4. Customer segments. 3. Heading into next fiscal year, Co. plans to be aggressively investing in new and adjacent markets for the longer-term, regardless of how long it takes for macroeconomic environment to rebound. 1. Would not be investing aggressively if Co. thought that: 1. This current slowdown was going to be long in duration. 2. Co. did not have a high probability of achieving 12-17% long-term growth objectives. 2. Major areas of Momentum: 1. Emerging markets including both Co.'s emerging market theater and emerging countries in Asia-Pacific such as China and India. 2. Japan and service providers. 3. Next-generation network build-outs. 4. Collaboration and network enabled Web 2.0 acceptance. 5. Co.'s leadership in customers' minds and their beginning to implementations views. 6. Product pipeline and innovation leadership. 7. Advanced technologies and emerging technologies. 3. Areas of Concern: 1. Areas that Co. continues to monitor closely are: 1. The US market and possibility of these challenges in the US spreading to other geographies. 2. Service providers' long-term growth rates for CapEx. 2. On a global and US basis, Co. sees same challenges and uncertainties from an economic, political, and CapEx perspective. 1. Co. is seeing progress in the US enterprise market. 2. Total overall enterprise growth is possibly stabilizing. 3. While growth still varies dramatically by industry, large multinationals and financial institutions which were the first ones to decline almost a year ago in terms of their spending with Co. now are doing dramatically better. 1. In five of the last six quarters, these accounts which used to be called Co.'s Statement One accounts had negative growth or best case mid-single-digit positive growth. 2. In 3Q08 and now again in 4Q08, Co. saw YoverY growth rates comfortably in double-digits. 3. Secondary that Co. is watching closely is service provider CapEx spending. 1. One way to analyze CapEx growth is in CapEx as a percentage of total sales. 2. Rate of growth in this area appears to be moderating; although, it varies dramatically from co. to co. and by geography. 3. Worldwide service provider orders have been growing for three years in a row at a very rapid rate. 1. FY07 grew approx. 40% YoverY. 4. If the market continues to slow, Co. believes this will not dramatically change its long-term opportunities and its vision of how the industry will evolve with its differentiated strategy. 4. Guidance: 1. 1Q09 guidance is for YoverY revenue growth in 8% range and for 2Q09 guidance is for YoverY revenue growth in 8.5% range. 2. Co. believes its long-term growth opportunities remain 12-17%. 3. Co. will focus on what it can control and influence and attempt to position CSCO to gain momentum in market transitions whether they are: 1. Industry consolidation. 2. Product transitions. 3. Market adjacency opportunities. 4. Economics.

QUESTION AND ANSWER SUMMARY

OPERATOR: (Operator Instructions). Tal Liani, Merrill Lynch.

TAL LIANI, ANALYST, MERRILL LYNCH: I have so many questions. First, I want to thank you for the level of disclosure. It's just unbelievable and I hope that other companies will do the same. I want to ask a general question about one sentence you put in the press release. You said that you have intentions to expand into adjacent markets. In this kind of environment, you want to take the opportunity. Would you mind to elaborate on this? First, do you have an appetite for a big acquisition or a series of small acquisitions? And second, what kind of areas are you interested in?

JOHN CHAMBERS, CHAIRMAN, CEO, CISCO SYSTEMS: So breaking the information into three pieces. First, thank you very much for your feedback and Tal, you and others have been very candid with us about giving you more details. So we're attempting to do that and we appreciate very much you appreciating the value of it.

Secondly, in terms of areas we're going to expand into -- and Ned, I'm going to ask you to comment in just a little bit of moment on our concepts. We going to expand into areas in market adjacencies in every major customer segment -- in the home, in the small business, in the medium-sized commercial business, in the enterprise, and in the service provider. We will go as we said in the comments really from the data center to the home devices.

In terms of our strategy, innovation will continue to be defined as done internally in terms of expanding our existing product and evolving the market adjacencies internally in terms of startups where the emerging technology groups are really knocking the cover off the ball. Those numbers were fantastic in the three new emerging technologies that are growing in total over 300%. And, also, in terms of partnerships and you'll see us partner primarily big to big; you'll see us acquire primarily big to small to medium.

I would not rule out all four areas of growth in each of our customer segment groups. If you think about what we're going to do, we usually acquire as we move into new markets that we do not have the expertise or the product segments in. We tend to partner big to big. So, think of us partnering with companies like an IBM, a Microsoft, an Intel and EMC and Accenture, Emphasis, Wipro, Tata, companies of that type. Think of us acquiring more in the [Jim] -- Scientific-Atlanta type of range, the WebEx or ideal ones as Ned and I have always discussed is 100 engineers with a really hot product that's just about to come to market that some of our best customers say go buy and we'll buy a lot of.

Ned, maybe take it to the next step.

NED HOOPER, SVP, CORPORATE DEVELOPMENT AND CONSUMER GROUP, CISCO SYSTEMS: So we expect to continue to be very aggressive in using acquisitions as part of our build, buy and partner strategy to expand our presence in the markets. You've seen us continuing through the slowdown most recently with our acquisition of Pure Networks in the consumer market which positions us in the network home, both through retail and through the service provider delivered to provide the simplest, easiest to use and best customer experience. Great example, John, of a small acquisition where we were able to bring in a strong innovative engineering team to expand our additional markets. We will also, as you know with Scientific-Atlanta, WebEx, and others continue to use platform acquisitions to position ourselves in new markets going forward.

JOHN CHAMBERS: Thank you very much and I hope that answered your questions.

BLAIR CHRISTIE, SVP, CORPORATE COMMUNICATIONS, CISCO SYSTEMS: We'll take the next questions please.

OPERATOR: Paul Mansky, Citigroup.

PAUL MANSKY, ANALYST, CITIGROUP: Obviously, John, congratulations. You did call the macro turndown I would argue probably first certainly out of the tech group (multiple speakers) --

JOHN CHAMBERS: You were simply wrong on that, Paul.

PAUL MANSKY: I prefer you have been very, very wrong on that actually. But, it looks as though you called it right. And yet, as we've got two quarters underneath our belt here, obviously you've fallen off your target rate of growth, although not as dramatically as some might have anticipated, while at the same time recognizing currency benefits that impact different companies at different paces. Very largely if I look at large cap tech and then I also look at your smaller direct competitors, companies certainly haven't been lowering numbers. So I was hoping just to get your perspective relative to what it is that Cisco may or may not be seeing that's unique and then just any color you could potentially provide around that. Because obviously I'm sure you pay pretty close attention to what your competitors both direct and indirect are doing.

JOHN CHAMBERS: So let me kind of take the overall geography question and kind of bringing it down to the specific questions at hand. The overall geography is what we're hearing when we look at an economic perspective. We mainly listen to what our customers are telling us and what our customers are telling us outside the US is largely that their GDP growth and the growth of their own business is pretty solid. That doesn't mean that some of the things going on in the US won't affect them. But if China grows from 13% growth to 11% or 11% to 9.5%, we and others are still going to do very well there.

And as we said earlier, it's the best balance we've seen in our emerging markets. And that's emerging markets, doesn't matter where it is in the world in Asia, in Latin America, Eastern Europe, Russia, CIS. And I'd be very surprised if we didn't see the Middle East and Africa bounce back very strongly this next year, so good balance there. It's actually been a pleasant surprise to us in areas like the UK where clearly they've had some of the same challenges the US did. Their growth over last quarter was very solid.

Areas like Germany, you really see the country investing for the future. And it looks very solid there. We experienced growth in the high 20s in Germany. In the US, it's really mixed. We have a certain number of our customers who actually say if it weren't for what they were hearing in the press, their business is very solid. And even their shareholders don't believe them when they say that but they say China really is. You have others who are a little bit more cautious and I think all of us understand that by industry segments, etc.

We do have some tough comps which ought to be taken into consideration when you look at our Q1 and Q2 growth, especially true in service provider where you went through three years in a row where the average quarter year-over-year growth was above 30%. And clearly, you have to absorb that capacity.

What percentage of CapEx say spend is a percentage of sales will vary a little bit on investments but you're seeing service provider network loads grow very, very rapidly. So, actually, our US enterprise was stronger than we expected this quarter. Our US service provider was a little bit weaker. But if I look at the total global scenario, it is probably going to be a little bit longer than we would have said six months ago. But still, most of my customers see it turning early next year and that's what we're listening to our customers and we're budgeting that way. We don't want to project that in terms of our yearly growth numbers until we see it occurring. And most likely even if we were, we'd miss what that number would be.

PAUL MANSKY: Completely understandable.

BLAIR CHRISTIE: Next question please.

OPERATOR: Nikos Theodosopoulos, UBS.

NIKOS THEODOSOPOULOS, ANALYST, UBS: My question, John, is several quarters ago when you mentioned that things were slowing a bit, it was more enterprise focused. And it seems like that part of your business now has stabilized and maybe bottomed and it's the service provider part of the business that gives you some caution. Is it safe to say in your discussion with your customers globally that the worst is behind us in enterprise and we just need to now get through the telco -- I'm sorry the service provider capital spending uncertainties or do you -- is there still some risk you think on the enterprise side? Thank you.

JOHN CHAMBERS: Well, let me start in reverse order. From the service provider perspective, our relationship has never been better. We're working with most all the large service providers around the world, not just in providing a technology product but beginning to evolve the technology architectures in considering going all the way from the home to their data centers and combining data, voice, video. The loads on their networks are starting to approach levels that many of them have said, John, you all probably call that one right even four or five years ago when you said the loads on networks wouldn't be 50% or 100% of multiple hundreds of percent as video really begins to take off.

The major challenge they face is how do they bring the economics to the loads on their networks. And so, when you build out with a capacity that people have said before, it takes a while to absorb that and it also takes a while for their service providers to transition from charging purely for individual voice connections or for bandwidth speeds to the services they put on top. But you're seeing most service providers begin to do that. That's a nice way of saying we would not anticipate service provider spending over the long run not returning into double digits. Time would tell if that's right or wrong.

In terms of the enterprise market, it really varies. Around the world, they've held up remarkably strong and they may be lumpy by an individual country at a given point in time, but pretty solid around the world. Again, our relationship with the CIOs around the world, we would get ranked usually number one of almost all IT and communication companies in any large surveys done in terms of everything from vision to customer sat. So we're positioned well.

In the US, I think it's a little bit too early to call the trend. I think we want to share with you and when you see US enterprise going from 6% to 13%, that's very positive. (inaudible) not forecasting those types of numbers yet for the future. And so, we'd like to watch at least another quarter before I would call it a trend. But if you do believe and we follow -- we try to follow everything that moves, the organizations that led us into this slowdown which were financial and the large multinationals who went through as I said earlier over a year of very sluggish growth to negative growth would be kind words, we've seen them upturn as a group. And we saw good balance across our enterprise market in five of the six theaters going from 8% to mid-20s%. So it's a nice way of saying we would like to say yes to your question. But no, I think it's going to take a little bit longer to play it out.

In summary, what we control the influence, we are pretty good. What we're pretty good at is predicting the overall additions of all of our balance of markets, although we often miss by customer segments or individual products. I hope that it helps explains a little bit. I wish a quarter from now I could give you a more definitive answer on the enterprise.

NIKOS THEODOSOPOULOS: That was perfect.

BLAIR CHRISTIE: Next question please.

OPERATOR: Simona Jankowski, Goldman Sachs.

SIMONA JANKOWSKI, ANALYST, GOLDMAN SACHS: John, I just wanted to understand a little bit the assumption behind your guidance. When I look at some of the metrics in your business last quarter, your orders by geography actually improved in a couple of the regions, like the United States and Asia. Also, your deferred revenues improved. Advanced Services were up nicely. Your book-to-bill was above 1. Clearly, there were areas of deceleration as well. But I was just curious how putting all those things together, how that comes out to a further deceleration in the business.

JOHN CHAMBERS: Frank, you want to take a crack at that?

FRANK CALDERONI, CFO, CISCO SYSTEMS: So as you pointed out, as we ended fiscal year 2008 for Q4, we do have -- but we're going into the Q1 with a stronger position as we look at our backlog and also the amount of deferred revenue that we've been able to build. I mentioned this quarter that we had deferred revenue growing at 26%. We had a comparable amount last quarter. So that really bodes well as we look into the future in building that kind of a base.

We've taken that in consideration. Although that's a good start point as we go into the quarter. But as John mentioned, we really have to call it as we see it and we take all that into consideration. While we did have some great growth and strength in the quarter, we also are looking at these tough compares, especially on the service provider that we're taking into consideration as we look at Q1 and Q2. And that is a factor that affects our growth rate. So, in balance, we feel fairly confident with what we see right now with the 8% plus or minus 1% and the 8.5% for the second quarter plus or minus 1%, it kind of gives us the right balance of the good, the positive as well as some of the areas where we have a little bit more challenge.

SIMONA JANKOWSKI: Maybe just to clarify that, was there anything about the linearity of the quarter judging by the decline in your Accounts Receivable or the DSOs that also suggested you should come out with this kind of guidance despite some of the metrics improving?

BLAIR CHRISTIE: Simona, I am going to ask that we catch up with you after the call because we have a lot of questions here. Next question please.

JOHN CHAMBERS: Simona, if you go ahead and ask it, I will answer it when the call is over.

OPERATOR: Jeff Evenson, Sanford Bernstein.

JEFF EVENSON, ANALYST, SANFORD BERNSTEIN: Related to that, your DSOs were lower, implying maybe there was a little bit lower sales toward the end of the quarter. Yet, you seem pretty confident in guiding the second quarter will have about 3.3% sequential growth using the midpoint of your numbers plus a higher year-over-year growth rate. Given that you are unlikely to be seeing anything macroeconomic that makes you much more confident about the fourth quarter, are you doing something internally, like new products or organizational issues, that gives you confidence to guide for the acceleration toward the end of the year?

JOHN CHAMBERS: A series of questions. First, it does feed into Simona's question as well. The DSOs were very solid but our order growth rate actually was very strong in July. So, it was probably a point or two above the normal percentage of business that comes in the third month of the quarter, especially in Q4. In terms of what gives us comfortability in terms of the direction, while there might be an occasional competitor that gains a little bit of market share in a category temporarily -- and by the way, that's healthy for the business because if the market isn't growing well, we aren't getting good competitors, we've got a bigger issue -- we actually feel very comfortable with where we're positioned in all the markets.

We do see collaboration of Web 2.0 starting to take hold. I personally believe that's going to be the biggest driver of our direction as a company over the next five to 10 years. And you now for the first time that I can remember as a CEO, you talk to other CEOs and they can actually gave an advertisement for me on collaboration and telepresence in terms of saying this is changing the way that I do business. This is the direction that we're going, etc.

Video is clearly the killer app here. When you think about the loads currently going on networks, these are largely downloads that are occurring today or one person to one person. If you begin to take concepts like telepresence where you have 10 different locations into a single meeting which I do pretty regularly now as an example and you begin to think about that occurring not only in the area of business but also to the home where you watch sporting events together from your home across multiple sites and do reruns etc., you begin to see, wow, our view of at least what we believe will be loads on the networks still will actually accelerate even though they are often in many of our accounts starting to hit the 200%, 250% range.

Third element is you're beginning to see balance and a lot of our strategies we're putting in place are occurring. Fourth element is that you are seeing easier comps. We had some very tough comps coming off of service providers in Q1 and Q2. They're a little bit more adjustable in Q3 and Q4. Although Pankaj, make no mistake about it, I want to get service providers back sustainably into the growth in the double digits. If we execute right, I expect us to.

It's a nice way of saying Jeff a lot of moving parts in my opinion, all of them that we can control or influence almost without exception are going in the right way. It doesn't mean for Cisco people who are listening on the phone we can't do better. But I think on what we can control the influence, it looks good. And our customers are also even saying this is the most likely scenario for them in terms of what they see occurring on the macro environment.

FRANK CALDERONI: Just a point of clarification that you mentioned about the DSOs. So we were very pleased with the DSO of 34 days in the quarter. We did report 39 days last quarter but we also noted that last quarter we had some of our service deals that impacted that. So we've had some comparable DSO in that 34 day range right now for a couple of quarters.

JOHN CHAMBERS: Just for people on the phone, as long as it's in the 30 to 40 day range -- I don't even ask Frank about it -- if it were to go on either side of that, I would say we are doing something unusual and we want to really think it through. So, Frank, congratulations to your all's team and the manufacturing team on that measurement.

BLAIR CHRISTIE: Next question please.

OPERATOR: Scott Coleman, Morgan Stanley.

SCOTT COLEMAN, ANALYST, MORGAN STANLEY: I'm wondering if we can focus on the router market for a minute, growth of 8% year-over-year. When you look at your competitors in this market, they're growing at much faster rates. I'm wondering if you have a reason behind that. Is it that they're more focused on the EDGE part of the market? Do you need to do something with the existing product portfolio over the next couple of quarters to drive that growth rate back higher? I'm just curious why the numbers are so divergent from your competitors.

JOHN CHAMBERS: Break into probably three or four segments of it. First is, if you watch our growth using high-end routers as an example, Pankaj, that the last five to six quarters we've gained market share on everyone. If you look at high-end, multi-chassis routers, our market share there is huge and in going into the large-scale deployment almost as fast as we can build them within it.

Secondly, even at our size, orders can be a little bit lumpy. So, that's using an example that's very real. We have a medium-size service provider who's a great Cisco partner that we're not losing market share in. But they did gain in a comparable quarter $125 million and in this quarter they'll probably do less than $20 million. So that's $100 million on our numbers. But if you look across the board, that's probably a 7% or 8% negative change in terms of the scenario on it.

Third is that I would probably challenge you a little bit in terms of sustainable gained by the majority of our router peers in the industry. We actually have been very effective on our peers and I'm real comfortable with the product range from the core to the EDGE. I do think we have to do a little bit more, Pankaj, into certain segments of the EDGE. So, the ASR 1000 I think has been very solid. We probably have a little bit of work to do in some of the other product areas and I wouldn't be mentioning that if I didn't expect us to close that gap as well.

I do however want to congratulate Juniper to your indirect part of your question. They had a very good quarter. They clearly would not with a new CEO coming in project growth to be actually accelerating at these levels and beyond and redo their guidance if they didn't feel comfortable with it. We do have to make it a little bit tougher for them in a couple of the service provider commercial accounts and we understand where those are and we will do a little bit better job competing in those. Pankaj, anything you want to add to that?

PANKAJ PATEL, SVP, GENERAL MANAGER, SERVICE PROVIDER GROUP, CISCO SYSTEMS: John, I think you called it very well. I think innovations and our R&D investment especially in the high-end like CRS-1 for a number of years now is being operated. I believe we have a pretty strong position in that and especially with the offering like multi-chassis, we excel pretty well. So I think what you pointed out earlier which is when it comes to the architectural called leadership systems end into end-to-end solutions that's gaining both the mind share and the market share. I don't think we have been in a better position than ever than we have been in this market.

FRANK CALDERONI: John, just to add one more point from a data point of view, not only the midsize service provider that you referenced but a very, very large service provider who gave us a record business in the first quarter of last year who will do very well this year, still the comps are extraordinary in that situation.

JOHN CHAMBERS: Yes, if you do the numbers and you add three years in a row of 30% year-over-year growth, you realize there's a lot of capacity. Scott, let me be very direct and bold here. I think we're going to lead in our architecture and router across the board. I think there might be very short gaps where somebody might have a feature or temporary advantage. I think over time you'll see us continue to be the clear leader in routing in all categories and our customers who we've disclosed our current and future plans to would probably agree with that.

Having said that, there's always a little bit of room for a couple of accounts that we know that one or two of our competitors did very well in. And if $100 million can swing us by 7% on our growth numbers, imagine what an incremental $50 million can do for one of our smaller peers to kind of put it in perspective. Nice way of saying congratulations to those peers that had a good quarter. We'll try to give them a little bit better run over this next year. And we have traditionally given them a very good run over the last couple.

BLAIR CHRISTIE: Next question please.

OPERATOR: Mark Sue, RBC Capital Markets.

MARK SUE, ANALYST, RBC CAPITAL MARKETS: John, there's a big difference between 8 and 12 and a bigger difference between 8 and 17. Is 12 to 17 just glass is half full optimism? And why do you still feel the current revenue contraction will be short-lived? And I ask since we're looking at four potential quarters of revenue growth below your long-term growth guidance and the short-term is starting to feel pretty long.

JOHN CHAMBERS: First, Mark, I realize that in many markets and especially in some of the markets that our shareholders who make these decisions are measured in, you are often measured by the quarter or by the year. I make no decisions by the quarter and very few by the year. I make all my decisions, 3, 5, 7 years out. And, if you watch what we've been able to do, our growth projections over 17 years have been remarkably accurate. And, there are periods of time more often than not where we actually exceed our growth projections versus those where we are operating a little bit underneath them.

If you can grow in the 8% to 10% range, just for purpose of the discussion, when your market that represents one-third of your business is growing in mid single digits in the US which represents 50% of your business is growing at about 7%, I would challenge the reverse way. I would say Mark, and I know you are challenging me on this in a very positive way that the 12% to 15% might be a little bit low in terms of what the opportunities are.

So, I see nothing that has changed my view on the 12% to 17% range. In fact, if you knew what's occurring on a geography basis, it's a little bit like that game that you used to play in the carnival with Whack-A-Mole where now it's automated. No sooner do we put one of those challenges or opportunities down than another one pops up. But eventually, we will get them in sequence.

And so, if you can grow in the 8% to 10% range without currency effects and if you have your expenses being hampered by Frank I think it's about 2.5% a quarter, you get hit negatively on the expenses because of currency. As currency begins to balance out as the economy in the US comes around and it will and we might have active discussion, is it one quarter to two quarters or is it three quarters or four quarters out, then I would actually say those numbers look pretty to very reasonable in terms of the expectation. I can tell you now however if you try to add up each one of the variables, it's very difficult to say exactly what the growth will be. We're pretty good at portfolio management, not as good as signaling to each one of the individual variables.

So, in summary, if you were to look at 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, the vast majority of the time the numbers have actually run ahead of our guidance and at the upper end of the range.

BLAIR CHRISTIE: Next question please.

OPERATOR: Ehud Gelblum, JPMorgan.

EHUD GELBLUM, ANALYST, JPMORGAN: A couple of things. If you look at the cash flow guidance that Frank gave of 600 million to 800 million a month, you're usually saying 700 million to 900 million a month and I'm assuming that's correlated with the guidance that Frank gave for next quarter on the gross margin and the OpEx that points to an operating margin of 28%, a little bit below the 29.5% sort of range that you had before. My guess is that those are two sides of the same point.

Can you give us a sense as to where the extra expense is going and why you gave guidance like this two quarters ago and it turned out that you didn't do it. It turned out you actually did your 29.5% operating margin and not the 28%. Do you expect that your OpEx -- and if you can give us a little sense as to where it will be stepped up because it sounds like it's costing roughly 300 million a quarter to 100 million per month and why you feel the right thing to do is to spend more money and in what areas during these times of slow revenue growth? That would be helpful; I'd appreciate it.

JOHN CHAMBERS: Frank, I'm going to give you that easy question and have you do it. And each of the members sitting around the team from engineering to sales are saying, we would like to have more as well. So kind of take it within the parameter; then, I might kind of sum her up after you do it.

FRANK CALDERONI: So John, clearly over the last two quarters --

JOHN CHAMBERS: You're just being conservative.

FRANK CALDERONI: A little both. But over the last two quarters with the uncertainty in the macroeconomic environment, we try to be extra cautious as far as looking at and focus on spending across the board. And so, as we continue to make investments, we were more prudent as far as selecting those investments. We have those two quarters behind us. As we've mentioned on the call today, both John and I talked about this, in going into the new fiscal year, we're making investments for our innovation for the long-term. There are so many different opportunities that we're looking at in our portfolio. We've spent a tremendous amount of time, especially over the last six months, while we were managing our expense, looking at the opportunity and what the payback was going to be over longer-term.

It really goes back to the question that John just answered about the 12% to 17%. We feel very confident in that 12% to 17%. And in order for us to deliver on that 12% to 17%, we need to make investments in driving the innovation to go after that. We've got our portfolio in place. We're into a new fiscal year. We've got that all portioned out as far as where we're going to be making those investments, many of which John talked about on the call, especially in advanced technology, emerging technologies, solutions opportunities especially services is where we're growing on a global basis. So, there are many opportunities. The right thing that we have to keep in control as we move forward is making the right trade-off in that portfolio. And we're ready to do that.

JOHN CHAMBERS: So if you really think about it from a mathematical point of view, we've talked about it before in terms of our collaborative approach to market opportunities instead of doing one or two cross functional a year, we're going to do almost two dozen. Out of this two dozen, I would have to look at it mathematically but I would say at least half have no material effect on our top line for at least two years out. So if you look at the investments we're making and we're making them on a larger front than ever before and we're actually accelerating the market adjacencies that we're moving into as well as the new market opportunities and I would argue with a tremendous success rate.

Just use telepresence as an example. But Martin and team have been spending in telepresence for a two year development cycle. And then, the best we've ever had $1 billion product come to market is five years later in a new market area, they are very likely to beat that with all the appropriate caveats in terms of the run rates.

So we're investing and we're investing in a portfolio play. We're investing very broad. It goes back to I think it was Mark who was doing it in a constructive way exercising me about my comfort level which is going to 17%. If I were just doing routers and switches and a little bit of advanced technologies, I would say fair challenge. But look at where we're moving and our success rate of not only moving there and becoming rapid growth with a great profitability but also becoming the number one player in doing what we said. It's been really good.

So, if I were a shareholder and I was really saying, you run it like it was a private company and look where the stock is two or three years out, I would actually probably be more aggressive on the expenses. And that's where I think both Frank and I and the rest of the team are a little bit conservative. But, you'll see us spend the money. We're going to be aggressive and you will also see us if we execute versus our past with a pretty good hit rate. In fact, at the current hit rate Ned is a little bit higher than I would like. I would like to take a little bit more risk because so far we've been remarkably accurate.

EHUD GELBLUM: So we should assume that when revenue growth goes above 10%, operating margin goes back to 29.5%?

JOHN CHAMBERS: I'm not going to tie it down. We'll give you ranges as we go through it. But we could bring operating profits down to again up to whatever level we wanted very quickly. We will always balance our opportunities versus our long-term growth objectives, etc. I have no problem with growth opportunities. My problem is the reverse. How do we spend across the whole Company, not just in R&D as we move into new areas? Because Rick has to spend on go to market. Service has to spend on it. Manufacturing has to spend. Each of our groups have to invest into it. So, as you move into this many markets, it takes a little bit more time to be effective on it.

BLAIR CHRISTIE: Next question please.

OPERATOR: Paul Silverstein, Credit Suisse.

PAUL SILVERSTEIN, ANALYST, CREDIT SUISSE: John, I thought I just heard you say that telepresence is going to be $1 billion market in less than five years which hasn't happened before. The question is, I'm hoping you can give us a little more insight in terms of the base of business today on these new growth drivers, telepresence, Nexus, which I know you just started shipping -- and I suspect the numbers are extremely small -- and application network services. And can you also give us some insight relative to your comment about telepresence what type of impact you think these products could have over the next couple of years as well as that longer five year timeframe?

JOHN CHAMBERS: Again, it's very difficult to do by individual products but our ability to add up the total gets pretty dramatic. So, I would say in many ways Paul, it's like when we first moved into advanced technology several years going and you saw how successful we were across-the-board, each of us would have probably got those six technology growth rates wrong. But in total, they were remarkably sustainable. And for five of the six, they actually exceeded our expectations and continue to grow extremely well.

I will use one example and then maybe in future calls we can expand further. If I were to look at the three emerging technology groups as an example, they grew 300% year-over-year in terms of orders. They are at a run rate of about $200 million now. And, using telepresence as an example, it is at a run rate of 500% year-over-year growth. The total of the three are actually at a 300% year-over-year growth. So, it gets kind of confusing if I were to throw more valuables in but that's kind of a sampling of how we approach it and a pretty good track record on doing it.

The IP phone is an example. I don't know if one of you have the data in front of you but if you look at Unified Communications for us at the present time, its run rate I think is about 2 billion type of run rate. It was a market that we didn't really even really address aggressively five or six years ago. So we've shown an ability to go into that pretty quickly. Frank is in the meantime paging through his book frantically to make sure I've got that number right. And, if we didn't, we'll correct it a little bit later.

PAUL SILVERSTEIN: John, I'm not trying to put words in your mouth but did you say that you thought telepresence could be a $1 billion product in the next five years? And if you did say that, is that direct revenues and the indirect impact on your switching and router business or is that just direct?

JOHN CHAMBERS: That's just direct revenues. And I think I've got to add all the caveats that we're all very much aware of that if there's one product that really captures people's imagination, it's telepresence. And it speaks to the role of video and communications. 60% of the way you communicate is nonverbal. It's about video and that loads the heck out of networks and you're just beginning to see what's capable with telepresence. And so today, while you see the typical ones that probably each of you have seen, you have not seen our movement into the home which we're clearly going to do. Probably a couple of you have seen it on YouTube with [Nurly] doing a virtual hologram, being able to virtually appear onstage together with people that are either in other parts of the world or actually time shifted into those roles.

So while it's not a sure thing and obviously I expect very good execution and there's always a portfolio play here, the one product I feel with the highest probability of hitting that $1 billion run rate in a new area that we haven't been before is probably telepresence. The other products, Paul, it's early in the cycle. So when you think about data center, there's always a slow uptake when you bring in brand-new products into the data center. Our feedback on the customers and you've seen the awards we won, the Nexus 5000, Nexus 7000 look really good.

BLAIR CHRISTIE: We have time for one more question.

OPERATOR: Tim Long, Banc of America.

TIM LONG, ANALYST, BANC OF AMERICA: If I could just follow back on the Unified Communication comments, obviously, it continues to be strong there. Just give us a little color John where you think we are in this cycle and how the economy is going to maybe influence some of those upgrades. And also, you get this question every quarter if you could just talk to the pull-through of switching that you are seeing on the Unified Communications side, that would be great. Thank you.

JOHN CHAMBERS: Yes, the run rate on Unified Communications, actually the number for the year was above 2.5 billion on the order rate. So, the run rate you all have seen over a period of time, it varies. Some of the areas like the IP telephony is a given and people will spend on that during good times and during bumps, maybe not quite as much during the bumps as the good times. But that is a role that I think it's pretty much a given that the phones of the future will be IP and they won't describe them as phones. They will probably describe them as a combination of data, voice, video, wired and wireless flexibility within that.

The second part of the question I missed.

BLAIR CHRISTIE: Was around the broader market and how the impact (multiple speakers) --

JOHN CHAMBERS: So, for new technologies and let's use telepresence as an example, during stronger economic times, it's a lot easier for people to put in a pilot group of 20 systems and then take them to 100 during a little bit of tougher economic times until they experience it and beginning to get their base, it's a little bit longer ramp-up in terms of what might occur. So that's the nice way of saying in areas that have a very quick ROI that the customer feels pretty comfortable with, they spend either way during areas that are a little bit more based on productivity and collaboration I think we've got a little bit more work to go.

But, that's a very appropriate one to end on because what has changed most of all in the last six months is the conversations on collaboration of Web 2.0. It move from theoretical or pilot based more toward our leading-edge customers saying help me implement it. Which sequence do we go in? How do I get there? That's true, both in the enterprise and in the service provider environment.

So, I want to thank everyone and Blair maybe turn it over to you for final closing. Please give us feedback on what you thought of the new format. We tried to be a little bit more [net] and leave a little bit more time for a healthy give and take in the Q&As. Don't hesitate to share with us what areas you want to see us improve on. But in summary, what we can control or influence I feel very good about. And our growth opportunities I think is more a prioritization on execution than having opportunities to go at. And I think that's really unique in the industry as a whole. So Blair, back to you.

BLAIR CHRISTIE: Cisco's next quarterly conference call which will reflect our first-quarter fiscal year 2009 results will be on Wednesday, November 5, 2008 at 1:30 PM Pacific, 4:30 PM Eastern Time. Additionally, downloadable Q4 financial statements as I said before will be available following this call, including revenue segments by product and geography, income statements, full GAAP to non-GAAP reconciliation information, balance sheet, and cash flow statements can be found on our website in the Investor Relations section. Just click on the financial section of the website to access those.

Again, I would like to remind you that in light of regulation fair disclosure, Cisco plans to retain its long-standing policy to not comment on its financial guidance during the quarter unless it is done through an explicit public disclosure. Please call the Investor Relations Department with any follow-up questions from this call and thank you for your participation and continued support. This does conclude our call.

OPERATOR: Thank you for participating on today's conference call. If you would like to listen to the call in its entirety, you may call 866-357-4205. For participants dialing from outside the US, please dial 203-369-0122. You may disconnect at this time.

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Company / organization: Name: Cisco Systems Inc; Ticker: CSCO; NAICS: 334119, 511210; DUNS: 15-380-4570; Name: Merrill Lynch & Co; Ticker: MER; NAICS: 523120; SIC: 6211, 6221; DUNS: 06-496-8043; Name: Citigroup Inc; Ticker: C; NAICS: 551111; Name: Thomson Financial; NAICS: 551111

Publication title: Fair Disclosure Wire; Linthicum

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 5, 2008

Publisher: CQ Roll Call

Place of publication: Linthicum

Country of publication: United States, Linthicum

Publication subject: Business And Economics, Law--Corporate Law

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

ProQuest document ID: 466161932

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/466161932?accountid=4840

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Last updated: 2018-02-21

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 217 of 313

August 7, 2008 (Page 7 of 60)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]07 Aug 2008: 7.

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Abstract: None available.

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Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 224

First page: 7

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 7, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2226189105

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Last updated: 2019-05-16

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Document 218 of 313

SCENE: NIGHTWATCH

Author: Waterhouse, Jon

Publication info: The Atlanta Journal - Constitution ; Atlanta, Ga. [Atlanta, Ga]07 Aug 2008: P.25.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

It begins with an on-the-house low-country boil and beer tasting courtesy of Budweiser from 5 to 7 p.m. Live music from Nelson Brownstone cranks at 5 p.m. followed by Justin at 9. Beginning at 7 p.m., the bar starts pouring $2 Veuve Clicquot champagne.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

CORRECTION: 08/08/08, Page A/02: East Andrews Cafe & Bar offers $2 Veuve Clicquot on Thursdays. The day was incorrect in Thursday's accessAtlanta section.

STILL SUMMER

Although public schools are preparing to start back, it's still summer. And Front Page News in Little Five Points reminds us of this with Atlanta Summer Bash. It begins with an on-the-house low-country boil and beer tasting courtesy of Budweiser from 5 to 7 p.m. Live music from Nelson Brownstone cranks at 5 p.m. followed by Justin at 9. Beer specials run throughout the night.

> THE 411: $8 advance online; $15 at the door. 5 p.m. August 9. Front Page News, 351 Moreland Ave., Atlanta. 404-475-7777, www.atlantasummerbash.com.

A TASTE OF CARNIVAL

In honor of Brazil's Carnival, tapas joint Loca Luna hosts Brazilian Carnival Nights. House samba outfit Rua 6 delivers live music. Brazilian and international thumps come from the turntables of DJs including CarlitoNova. Expect hip-shaking samba girls and plenty of exotic cocktails on special.

> THE 411: Free. 9 p.m. Aug. 8. Loca Luna, 550-C Amsterdam Ave., Atlanta. 404-875-4494, www.carnivalatl.com.

MURPHY'S LAW

Va-Hi's Murphy's has its own addendum to its eponymous law. On Tuesdays, you can always count on a wine tasting. It begins at 6:30 p.m. in the wine shop. Approximately eight wines get the spotlight and guests get to add more knowledge to their bank of wine smarts. Decide to stick around for dinner and score $5 credit toward any entree more than $11. Reservations can only be made the day of the event.

> THE 411: $20. 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays. Murphy's, 997 Virginia Ave. N.E., Atlanta. 404-872-0904, www.murphysvh.com/home.html.

TWO-BUCK CLICQUOT

What's so special about Tuesday nights? East Andrews Cafe & Bar thinks it deserves to be known for inexpensive bubbly. Beginning at 7 p.m., the bar starts pouring $2 Veuve Clicquot champagne. DJ Moneyshot helms the tables. If cheap libations aren't enough to help reinvigorate the personal finances, maybe free admission will help do the trick.

> THE 411: Free. 7 p.m. Tuesdays. East Andrews Cafe & Bar, 56 E. Andrews Drive, Suite 10, Atlanta. 404-869-1132, www.eastandrews.com.

DO YOU HAVE AN EVENT to promote or know of club openings, closings and renovations? Please e-mail us at access@ajc.com.

Credit: FOR THE JOURNAL-CONSTITUTION

Subject: Wines; Market strategy

Location: Atlanta Georgia

Publication title: The Atlanta Journal - Constitution; Atlanta, Ga.

Pages: P.25

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 7, 2008

Section: AccessAtlanta

Publisher: CMG Corporate Services, Inc. on behalf of itself and the Newspapers

Place of publication: Atlanta, Ga.

Country of publication: United States, Atlanta, Ga.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 15397459

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 337540690

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Document 219 of 313

August 10, 2008 (Page 63 of 256)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]10 Aug 2008: 63.

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Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 49

Issue: 107

First page: 63

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 10, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

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ProQuest document ID: 2249385238

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Last updated: 2019-06-30

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Document 220 of 313

Q2 2008 LANXESS AG Earnings Conference Call - Final

Publication info: Fair Disclosure Wire ; Linthicum [Linthicum]13 Aug 2008.

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OPERATOR: Good day, and welcome to the Q2 2008 conference call of Lanxess, hosted by Mr. Matthias Zachert, CFO. At this time I would like to turn the conference over to Michael Pontzen. Please go ahead sir.

MICHAEL PONTZEN, HEAD OF IR, LANXESS AG: Thank you, Jill, and welcome from my side here to our Q2 results conference call. I'm sorry that we kept you a little bit posted but we had some of you still being on the line and some of you are still in the line to get and pass through to our conference call. But I think we're now ready to start it. I'm happy to hand over to Matthias now.

MATTHIAS ZACHERT, CFO, LANXESS AG: Ladies and gentlemen, welcome to second quarter 2008 conference call of Lanxess. And I would like to go to slide number three, the agenda, which shows to you that we are first of all addressing a short -- in a brief way the highlights of second quarter. Afterwards we will immediately dive into the business update financial review and eventually talk about outlook and guidance for remaining 2008.

So with this I would like to move over to slide number four, and here the key point I would like to address on the business update is, despite the more challenging environment in the second quarter and the first substantial increase, further increase of raw materials, energy prices and personal costs in second quarter, we were able to fully pass on the raw material input cost inflation. And I think this shows the strength of the overall Lanxess portfolio that we have shaped over the last three and a half years. So here it's a continuous delivery on what we've said before.

Another element that I think is noteworthy is the ongoing restructuring that we do. So in the first quarter we announced restructuring in Sarnia which is in Canada, and we've also announced restructuring in the other rubber area in Zwijndrecht, which is in Antwerp. And we do that in an environment where I think we clearly know there's no reason to relax, we are going to accelerate.

As far as the financial update is concerned, second quarter shows the strongest growth we have ever reported so far, after in the first two years we clearly implemented our price before volume approach, we sacrificed volume. Now of course you see that besides pricing, also volumes are accelerating nicely.

This was the primary driver next to the cost cutting of the past few quarters, past few years, why our absolute EBITDA has further increased and of course also on the margin side you see a structural improvement.

As far as balance sheet is concerned, of course, we paid out the dividends which we quadrupled and the increase of the dividend, of course, we gave as indication last year already to the capital markets because we saw that 2008 the portfolio set up will be more resilient, and that's the reason why we are able to beef up the dividend for 2008, and said we want to sustain it at that level.

Noteworthy also, it's, of course, the first time that we consolidate the Petroflex business within our P&L, balance sheet and cash flow.

Let's move on to slide number five, which for me is one of the key slides in this presentation ,and here this gives you the break-up of the price, volume, currency and portfolio overview by segments. And let me address one by one.

Performance Polymers which predominantly includes the rubber business, you see what we indicated to you in the first quarter, the market is tight, and despite automotive sales being sluggish, especially on the OE sides on new cars, we see that the replacement tires in the Western hemisphere are relatively stable. In some areas marginally declining but overall, if you look at the rubber market or the tire market worldwide, you see that production of tires worldwide is increasing.

And all respective [great] countries foster the growth in entire tire market, rubber market and that's where synthetic rubber comes into play. This is the reason why the rubber product remains tight, as indicated in Q1 and we see that this momentum is not changing for the remainder of the year. So that's the reason why already in Q2 we were able to move prices and volume strongly upwards; 24% is [the word].

On the portfolio side you see, of course, here according to international accounting standards the portfolio sect which we are going to show now for the next few quarters. So over the 12 months portfolio will be shown and that is the Petroflex effect.

Let's move on to next business segment, advanced intermediates so overall here we continue to push prices up. It was necessary because of raw materials, and of course while doing this, we had also positive momentum coming from the volume side, driven basically by here the agrochemical segment but also the other segments in the business. Basic chemicals overall doing pretty well, so that the entire segment benefited from this volume increase.

In terms of Performance Chemicals what needs to be mentioned is here we went out for a stronger price increase in Q2 compared to Q1. Also this was necessary in order to mitigate raw material price inflation. So overall you see that price and volume are moving up strongly by around about 14% across the segments, and I think the pricing side should give you a level of strength in terms of our overall portfolio setup.

This is primarily also the reason why overall the operational performance outpaced the raw material price inflation, and also currency development clearly being the most extreme in the second quarter with the average rate of $1.53 versus last year, which was still substantially more favorable in terms of cross rates, euro/dollar.

Let me now come to slide six and here you see in the middle of the slide the overview on reported sales. Of course here in the reported sales we had in the -- space of 2007 the portfolio of Lustran to consolidate it, so here this doesn't show the true operational performance. Therefore we've adjusted the reported numbers just for sake of clarity on the right hand side, framed with red the operational development, which irons out portfolio and currency volatility.

And the points that are noteworthy, I think, are the strong growth in Asia with 43%, hitting somewhat a strong mark in our organic growth. And potentially more noteworthy is the 12% organic increase that we have seen in the United States. Even for myself this came a little bit as a positive surprise. Internally we had more assumed again the organic growth we had seen in Q1, where the growth rate was, with 5.4%, decent. But of course compared to second quarter this is clearly a nice development and comes back to what we've done in the past, to lock in for the longer term more shakier accounts, while the ongoing accounts that are focusing on our high performance tire quality products, etc., of course are more on a quarterly, yearly basis always renegotiated.

And as far as EMEA and Germany are concerned, momentum remains positive.

On slide number seven, we have given for reasons of clarity also a little bit more color on the rubber business, because we are hearing for quite some weeks now the concern that is driven by the automotive industry decline. And here notably on the new cars, but also some of the tire manufacturers have indicated that North America and Europe replacement tires are developing a little bit weaker. And the point that I would like to make on this particular slide is the biggest, or one of the biggest, tire markets in the world has become the Asian tire markets.

And you see how strongly our three rubber businesses, BTR, PBR and TRP are now focusing on this Asian demand. So we are basically benefiting from the building of new accounts, and making sure that we build strategic alliances also with new tire manufacturers, and do not only focus on the established peer or leading tire manufacturers.

So with this, of course, we diversify our customer base, and of course now we benefit from the strong momentum that the Asian tire business is having with substantial growth rates, which are clearly above the 10%. So here, all three businesses contributed nicely to the strong growth in Asia and, of course, strong growth for entire performance polymer segments.

Ladies and gentlemen, I take the liberty to now lead you through the financial results in more detail, and I come to slide number nine.

It's the first time that LANXESS is able, for round about now six quarters, to report a growth in reported sales. For those of you who have been with us for a longer period of time, you know that we went in 2006 and 2007 through major cleaning of the portfolio, and that's the reason why at reported level, we always had a sales erosion, while, of course, the underlying business showed organic growth.

Now that the Petroflex is coming on board, and now that we also show the strong organic growth, you'll see that for the very first time LANXESS reports a growth in top line, not only through the organic basis, but also reported-wise, which I think is a nice element.

More focused, as always, is our profitability and here as far as EBITDA is concerned, despite currency, raw materials and other costs, inflations like personnel costs and electricity, we were able to again increase our absolute EBITDA while changing further the structure of the business upwards, thus increasing the margin.

As far as net income is concerned, of course, a major change to the positive but, of course, in last year we have written off on (inaudible) quite heavily the Lustran business for good reason, and that's the reason why net income is going up substantially despite one-offs that we also booked in Q2 2008, and I will come to that in a second.

As far as net financial debt is concerned, it has moved up, due to the consolidation -- or due to the purchase price that we paid to the sellers of the Petroflex business for the 70% and, of course, seasonal theme that you saw in Q2 for the entire industry, working capital has been adjusted upward, or has increased due to the inflationary trend that we saw on the raw material side.

The one point I would still like to make on this slide is employees. I had reported in the first place that, when we gave some indication on Petroflex, that here we would consolidate or take on board round about 800 people, headcount. And you'll see that the increase in our headcount base is now only showing round about 450.

This is entirely driven by the fact that the restructuring that we've put in place through Q1 already has been partly implemented in Q2 and, of course, the restructuring of phase 1 and phase 4 that we announced in 2005 and 2006 also has led to the headcount decrease of round about 300, so net-net we only show the 500 headcount increase, which I think gives you some indication that we continuously work on our cost structure.

Let me come to slide ten, and here are more details for you on the P&L and what I would like to indicate are the following three statements. Of course we manage our overall profitability and here, despite the volatile environment, we managed soaring input costs.

So the deviations -- point number two -- the deviations that you see on all the respective cost lines are basically driven through the taking on board of the Petroflex business.

And the last point I would like to make are the one-times. Net income has been burdened, a, by the EUR43 million of special items that are shown on this very slide. They have been booked for the respective restructurings on Sarnia, Canada and Antwerp, Belgium, which have been communicated with the first quarter conference call.

We've also impaired with round about EUR30 million in the financial -- other financial expense line, the parts of our assets being left for the INEOS ABS joint venture. The reason for that is pretty simple; overall you see that the ABS market worldwide is not developing that favorably, and so this is the result of ABS having overcapacities worldwide, and thus, raw materials cannot be really passed through, so the entire input cost increase is hurting the gross margin quite substantially, and that's the reason why we took the liberty now to reduce the remaining assets by round about EUR30 million.

For the entire remaining exposure, we have round about EUR20 million-EUR30 million of assets left. So with this I think this Lustran or ABS divestiture is put to bed.

And one point I would like to make again, for this joint venture, we have a clear-cut option and no funding responsibilities.

Let me now come to the businesses and tier. The first point, of course, on Performance Polymers, pricing 12% up, showing you the market position that we have in synthetic rubber, point number one, but also showing you, to some extent, the need for rubber in the global trend of mobility and scarcity of this product. And this is reflected, of course, also through the volume increase with 12%.

We ironed off here the currency development, which is, of course, not that nice in second quarter, due to the fact that a lot is invoiced in US dollars while a substantial part is being produced in euro. So it was hurting us, of course, but through price and volume, we mitigated this effect. And Petroflex contributes round about 20% to the growth, and this was according to our expectation.

Now let's come, more specifically, to the business units. BTR had, of course, a nice underlying business momentum. What helped versus Q2 last year is basically the pricing and volume, and the product being tight, but of course, also the strike was on the base of Q2 2007, not a lot, but round about 10 million sales were lost at that point in time. So with the environments being positive on (inaudible) and also having a rather low base, or a lower base than in other quarters, we performed in BTR pretty strongly. And we see that for the remainder of the year, this product has a very good momentum.

As far as polybutadiene is concerned, we clearly benefit here from the strong demand in Asia and, of course, in the last two years, more and more we changed our -- some of our short-term contracts and more shakier accounts in the United States to long-term contracts, round about lasting three to five years. And with this, I think, we took the deliberate decision in Q4 last year to increase our capacity from three to four lines, and now you see that the products are sold on to the markets, with a quality that we have, with the market position that we have, we were able to, therefore, sell pretty strongly with PBR also in the second quarter.

And I don't think that this is going to change fundamentally in Q3-Q4, even though in polybutadiene the biggest raw material price hike will come in the course of Q3, and we are preparing for that.

As far as semi-crystalline products are concerned, the biggest volatility we see here is basically on the raw material side, through ammonia and sulfur. I know that this has been a concern to many of you in Q1, but also in preparation for Q2, but you see that this particular element we managed, and we were able to pass through entirely the increase in input costs to the end product. While this is somewhat technical in nature, because it doesn't contribute a lot to bottom line, the underlying businesses of, for instance, (inaudible), where we of course have emerging market exposure, but especially the polyamide business, [six], is benefiting nicely from the current longer-term contracts that we've put in place and here through also the end markets that we are focusing at.

So with this, I would like to sum up somewhat the Performance Polymers segment. We think Performance Polymers has been quite an important segment for us, with round about 50%, 55% of our total sales being exposed to Performance Polymers. We see that the mid-term, the longer term outlook is very positive because it's driven by the mobility trends in Asia.

And here from all the statistics that we have assessed, on the longer period of time, we see that this mobility trend is going to continue. That one of the strongest tire markets, Asian tire markets, will be strong also in the forthcoming quarters and also for 2009. This is the indication of the assessment that we do on all macroanalysis that we see and that we have studied on rubber.

Of course, when we go into this conference call, I take the liberty to read nearly all analyst reports that are being written on the tire markets and the automotive industry. But what I'm reading out of all the tire reports is that overall, the BRIC countries are commented with strong growth, while in Western Europe and North America, here there will be some softness, even though, and now I come to the business feedback, even though here, we do see from our business perspective that we see underlying trends continuing, also, for the remaining for the year. And that 2009, even though it's too early to give indications for 2009, doesn't change fundamentally.

The one point, however, for short-term, and this is Q3, the biggest challenge here will most likely be to manage the raw material increase that we see on the (inaudible) for Performance Polymers. So here, of course, the most significant increase is coming in Q3. We are getting prepared already, with all rubber business units from June onwards. We've posted first price increases already July 1 and here we do this region by region. July 1, Latin was adjusted and now on August 1, we address the Western hemisphere, the countries or the regions of North America and Europe. And of course, for Asia we nearly on a monthly basis adjust prices in order to mitigate the raw material increase.

So the one point I would like to make on the biggest segments. Rubber continues to rock and it continues to roll.

Now let's come to Advanced Intermediates and here, overall, I think again it needs to be stated that they continue delivering on what we had expected. Price increased by 5%, volume increased by 9%. A substantial chunk of that is coming through basic chemicals. They have the highest increase of raw materials and they passed that on to the end customers. So here we were able to offset the quite substantial increase in electricity and input costs.

And this is something where I think you see the first proof to the pudding that basic chemicals itself is not as volatile as some of you are still assuming, because if we compare ourselves to other intermediate players, that of course have also different end markets, we clearly see that here, you don't see an absolute EBITDA erosion. Because we were able, through the diversification, point number one, of the end markets in basic chemicals and, point number two, due to the consolidation that we have seen over the last few years, that this business, while of course having a normal cyclicality, is not as cyclical with volatilities of ten percentage points. It's basically selling through in a stable way. However, as they pass on price increases to the end products, which is a positive signal of strength, of course this has a margin dilutive effect. So this is the point on basic chemicals.

What I would like to say on Saltigo, also this business on the agro side, performed nice. On the pharma side, due to some change in contracts, there was a slight dip in Q2, but on Saltigo, I'm more confident for Q3, because here they should begin to perform better compared to previous year. And overall for Saltigo, my assumption is that we will be able end of the year to have a better result compared to 2007, showing the, let's say, improvement on an ongoing basis.

With this I come to Performance Chemicals. Here the picture's a little bit more mixed. A positive to note is the increase of prices by round about 6%. It was necessary to mitigate raw material costs. And on the negative side, of course, currency was hurting us most here in second quarter two. We were not completely able to iron that off.

However, let me give you a little bit of color on that and I would like to start with the business units themselves, (inaudible) inorganic pigments. Inorganic pigments is the business that is exposed to construction industry worldwide. Here we had first, a very strong base in Q2 last year. And that's the reason why, of course, the market has weakened and while Q2 2007 showed a very strong market, we here have some difficulties to simply compare in a weak environment versus a strong base 2007. That is point number one, so we see, of course, some of the weakened end markets, especially US, Spain, Ireland but overall, I can indicate to you that prices have also in this business been increased.

The one thing that was hurting us here in Q2 were the raw material and this is especially iron scrap. It has gone up substantially in the second quarter. While we could not adjust all product prices with our contracts within the quarter, we went out with price increases, as you can see on our Internet, for inorganic pigments from July 1 onwards. So while I do assume that the remainder of the year for inorganic pigments will be also lower than last year, I think the Q3 and Q4 results of inorganic pigments, however, will be better compared to Q2 performance. So this is the one, let's say, weakening element that needs to be stated.

On the second element, MPP, we've indicated in the last two or three quarters already that we are going to invest in materials products, because we see this as a good growth business for the future. And, of course, investments are visible here in the P&L as well, so this is something that you see. And it will continue also in the third and fourth quarters, but we do that in order to fuel the growth of this very strong EBITDA contributor in the years to come.

As far as functional chemicals is concerned, the performance you see in the second quarter was not outstanding. It was rather low, and here the driver behind that was that raw materials could not be passed on fully to the end customer and it was the weakest business unit in terms of rolling on product prices to end customer, thus leaving a squeeze on the margin.

The three businesses where I would like to shed positive light on is definitely Rhein Chemie; we improved here the business and were able to compensate prices. And rubber chemicals developed very nicely as well. So here we see a good momentum, also most likely being positive or even double positive in Q3 and Q4.

While in leather, there are two sides of the story, the organic side, the wet ends and finishing ends of leather chemicals, is not doing very well. Here I think the entire industry has a tough time. But due to the fact that we are, I think, in the most diversified position, we still manage this pretty well and on top of that, we were able with chrome, which is part of the leather chemicals business, to offset every difficulty that we see in the leather chemicals business.

So overall, I would say for Performance Chemicals, a mixed picture, however, for Q3 and Q4 my assumption is that the erosion that you could see on the absolute EBITDA sites, which is round about minus 12%, minus 13%, could be softer in Q3 and Q4 because here, as indicated before, we take appropriate steps in order to here come out better than in Q2.

With this, ladies and gentlemen, I would like to move to the balance sheets. And of course here a lot of things have been impacted through the consolidation of Petroflex. The ones that are most noteworthy are the ones that highlighted here in red, so let me come to inventories and receivables.

A common theme for Q2 in the entire chemicals industry, I think worldwide, working capital has gone up. And here there are two contributors to this. A, Petroflex rounded out leads to inclusion of round about EUR200 million and the other round about EUR200 million are the increase of working capital on the standalone business.

Let's change from the assets to the liabilities side and here you see the two financial liabilities being highlighted. Financial liabilities, non-current, are basically reflecting the purchase price we've paid for Petroflex. And as this is an acquisition, of course, in the meantime we financed that with a bilateral credit facility, so here it's a long-term financing, as you are used to in (inaudible), a prudent financial policy which we have put in place, a long-term loan running three years, with, I think, favorable financing terms which reflects the trust that the banks have with us or in us.

The working capital increase on the asset side you see reflected through short-term financing, so here we have basically financed the short-term working capital with short term credit facilities that we have, and as far as our overall liquidity position is concerned, for those of you that follow us for some quarters you know that our liquidity headroom is substantial and we still have our syndicated EUR1.5 billion credit facility as backup facility, so we are well financed until 2014.

As far as cash flow statement is concerned, here you do see it in level excluding working capital, a slight increase versus previous year reflecting the improvement on the performance on the profitability side, despite financing restructuring cash outs in the meantime. If you however take Q2 working capital into consideration, of course, you see that we are not hitting last year's level which however is reflected through the increase in input costs. My personal feeling is that in the entire chemical industry, you will also see that Q3 working capital will show a further increase, this will be no different to Lanxess. My feeling however will be for our company that from Q4 onwards we have a release of cash through a reduction on the inventories and receivable sites, and should the oil and the derivative products then come further down in course of Q4, especially as related to derivatives, I think from Q1 2009 onwards for the industry, but also for our company, then the working capital will lead to further reductions and thus to releasing cash for the respective companies.

With this, ladies and gentlemen, I would like to come to page 16 and here the guidance that we've provided for, which is pretty much reflecting what we've said with Q1 numbers. The one point that we, of course, would like to mention is that we do see overall that the macroeconomic environment has not become better, it has become of course more volatile, we see nervousness in the sentiment everywhere and what we do is here, we keep our powder dry. And we do see of course for the third quarter a substantial increase for raw material, but, ladies and gentlemen, let me indicate we saw that already coming in May and June, and therefore as you are used in our company, we take proactive steps. And we've taken proactive steps already in June in order to mitigate the raw material increase that we see already in Q3. I cannot promise that we can avoid (inaudible) effects, we are doing however our utmost to manage it. And if we manage it as well as in Q2 and Q1 we will be happy troopers. So here the raw material increase will be most substantial with Q3 results, and then I think in Q4 they are going to level off. So this is something we are currently preparing.

And now I come to slide number 18, and here to the full year guidance. In light of the overall environment, we have basically said we would like to reiterate our full year guidance that we've given with Q1. But of course you can read out of the Q2 numbers and the color I tried to give on the portfolio of our company that we give this guidance clearly with a higher level of comfort. Nevertheless we are reading the same reports, we are reading the same journals, the same magazines, we are getting the same kind of news. And of course what we have done, we've factored in the concerns that the overall market sees on the macroeconomic environment, and these concerns we have reflected one-to-one in our Q3 and Q4 numbers. Of course, we've also reflected the substantial raw material price increase that we see, so in light of the assumption that the world is clearly facing a tougher time, according to what we read, we try to factor that in, in order to not be confronted with the fact that we are perceived as too aggressive.

So this guidance that we give today, we do because we know that things are volatile, so it's a conservative guidance, with caution but not with pessimism on our portfolio. The important message for us is, we give the floor not the ceiling, but we want to attract long-term investors that want to have the clear indication what the, I would say, worst case scenario this floor will provide and we fight hard, of course, to show that the strength of our portfolio that we have shown in Q1 and Q2 will also give results in the future 2008 and the years to come.

So, to cut the comment on the outlook short, I think the strategy for Lanxess has played out. Over the last few years we've cleaned the portfolio, we've reduced substantially the cost base which is reflected in our reduction in headcount by more than 5,000 heads. We've adjusted the business models in all of our remaining businesses, and they were the drivers for the stability in Q1 and Q2. Q2 being a tough quarter, we've shown that we are resilient or more resilient than people think. We've kept a tidy balance sheet in place and therefore also from this side we have no reason to be worried. Overall, ladies and gentlemen, Lanxess is energized more than ever. And with this I would like to open questions from your side. Thank you.

OPERATOR: Thank you, sir. (OPERATOR INSTRUCTIONS).

We'll take our first question today from James Knight from Collins Stewart. Please go ahead, sir.

JAMES KNIGHT, ANALYST, COLLINS STEWART: Afternoon, Matthias. Are you fairly clear on full year guidance being as conservative as possible, at least the lower band? I wonder if I could tempt you into giving some guidance on Q3, given comments on raw materials in particular, just to get the shape of the second half.

I've got a couple of questions. Firstly on -- you mention the long-term contracts in the US for PBR, three to five years, is that on a take or pay basis? And if so, could you give us the level of some kind of qualitative feel of the level of take of pay with those?

As a final question, generally thematically Asia, how much positive effect are you seeing at the moment -- or do you see going forward from shutdown of capacity, permanent shutdown of capacity in Asia and particularly China amongst your competitors?

MATTHIAS ZACHERT: Hello, James, let me address Asia first and here I would like to answer not only your question but another question I got over the last few months. On the logistics of difficult products or hazardous products, this is something that does not really have a visible impact at the sales and P&L site, so the products that we are not able to ship due to the Olympics before and most likely one, two weeks after, if at all is in the neighborhood of round about EUR10 million at this point in time sales. So it's something that we have assessed at once we heard that is something being [select], but we don't take that as concern.

As far as the situation on the competitive environment in Asia is concerned, and notably China, I think what the Chinese are realizing right now is something that in the European context was put in place in the '80s and '90s when environmental protection came on the agenda. This is something that we clearly see as one key agenda item for the Chinese government right now, so we do think that here competitors that in the past were able to be harsh on prices or with low prices because they didn't care about environmental, things like waste water retreatment, etc., emission control, that these competitors would be faded out in the market. So this should position ourselves in the areas where our competitors were high polluters, this should position ourselves in a more comfortable place than in the past, and my feeling is we would benefit predominantly in Advanced Intermediates, notably basic chemicals and also in some of the businesses like Performance Chemicals, for instance, inorganic pigments, rubber chemicals and the like from that. So this is the point I would like to give as answer for the Asian question.

Now let's come to the other two points. Q3, more color, Q3 is one of the more difficult quarters I've seen over the last three, four years and that's the reason why we rather would like to be a little bit cautious at this point in time even though after having gone through all the businesses over the last two days, and talked to the business units, I feel that with energy and passion we are tackling this quarter with a lot of good positive spirit.

And the name of the game is prices, import costs are inflating, so we have to adjust prices everywhere and that's the reason why given the indication we are basically reviewing all contracts, all customers, all the regions and we are clearly in the models of adjusting here as fast as possible. And I think we have shown over the last 14 quarters that we have developed a kind of approach to mitigate that more and more, if overall the environment is helpful. So that's the reason why I speak to you on Q3 with a level of comfort, but of course clearly I've never tried to -- for the long term investors I never tried to miss the numbers. So it's better to start on the cautious side, see how the first two months go and then see if things are rolling through the P&L to be more -- to be more focused on pronounced, than on the bottom line contribution. But the start in Q3 is good.

Now to take or pay contracts. Of course here what we had to assess over the last two years, not only in PBR, we also did that for instance on the [Caprolactan] site for the semi-crystallines products. On the areas where we think that (inaudible) demand will be sluggish, that these kind of volumes we could lose, we decided in the last two years to lock in long term contracts. And these are in many cases take or pay. However, of course with the index base on raw materials, so raw materials go up, of course the price go up while the margin remains the same. If raw materials go down price product -- prices are adjusted but the margins remain the same. So we try in good times to get volatile volumes stabilized and this, I think, is something that you see right now, not only for PBR but another area of concern for some of you was [Caprolactan], both areas we took this approach with a variety of customers. And I think with all these three answers I've answered hopefully your questions James.

JAMES KNIGHT: You have. Could I just quickly come back on the pricing issue. I wonder if you could just give us a bit of comfort that it's more of a timing issue rather than --?

MATTHIAS ZACHERT: (inaudible).

JAMES KNIGHT: Okay, thank you very much.

OPERATOR: Thank you. We will now move to our next question today which comes from Neil Tyler from JP Morgan. Please go ahead, sir.

NEIL TYLER, ANALYST, JP MORGAN: Yes, hi, good afternoon, a couple of questions please. Firstly a quick one on the -- whether you've had the opportunity to extract any specific cost savings from the Petroflex deal? I know it's very early days, but whether there's any benefit in the numbers yet and if not, when you expect that benefit will start to materialize?

Secondly, I wonder if you could -- just struggling to understand the strength of growth in Asia and the organic growth there. I wonder if you can just talk a little bit more about the strength of growth and how you expect that to develop?

And, finally, on the development of the EBITDA over the remainder of the year, typically obviously the second half is a good deal weaker. Can you give us an indication of how much of that is within your control at the cost level, namely maintenance shutdowns, additional costs that you tend to book in the second half of the year, and how much scope you have to control that within the second half of the year? Thank you.

MATTHIAS ZACHERT: Hello, Neil. Let me address Petroflex first. We have just started consolidating it, so we have had one quarter in our books and in our hands, and what we have done in the meantime, we have basically first and (inaudible) entire second level of management, we've appointed that and therefore it's not -- it's not so much that we are here to communicate on cost cutting, etc. The point that we would like to make, we have taken this business in our hands, and we see we can run it as core business which wasn't often before. So Petroflex is entirely hitting the plan that we had assumed, so we have no negative surprise as far as the financial performance is concerned. Of course there are things here and there that we need to change, and we will change that in the way we have changed our business in Lanxess as well, and over one, two years you have seen that we were able to turn the rubber business around. And, of course, we have the same approach and targets for this in Petroflex. So overall, however, what we do benefit from is the consolidation in the market, it helps and we feel that our position as synthetic rubber producer worldwide has clearly been enhanced through this acquisition.

As far as growth in Asia is concerned, I will -- I would like to give you some color on some of the reports I have read over the last few months. People are indicating, or some people are indicating that the growth in China will slow down, and I've seen other reports indicating that the growth in the tire industry in China is slowing down. And let me be precise, I received some reports that indicated that the growth would come down from 18% on a year-on-year basis to around about 12% to 14%. As China is one of the big tire markets worldwide, I personally think that even a growth rate of 12% is a pretty decent one. So that's the reason why overall we might see some slowness in the BRIC countries but if you see the growth rate of the big BRIC countries in tires being between 5% and 7% also for 2009, it is a good indication. And on the basis of this, we have a level of comfort for our Performance Polymers business, and that's the reason why we don't flag this business as a weak asset with Q2 results, Q1 results, and the actions we are taking for the future, we think that this business will remind a solid horse, racing horse in our portfolio.

Now let's come to the EBITDA. We are not talking about, for Q3 and Q4 to change our maintenance plans. We keep our plants in a steady state, and therefore in order to maneuver on a quarterly basis, some EBITDA between Q3 and Q4, that's not running for a stable period of time a global company. So we do see good business momentum prevailing even though it's becoming a little bit more difficult, (inaudible) again, raw materials we have to actively manage as we have done in the past. But we don't see that there is a need for suddenly making short-term focused decision on maintenance, yes or no, when we want to maintain our plants in a state of the art shape for the next few years.

NEIL TYLER: Thank you, very clear.

MATTHIAS ZACHERT: Most welcome, Neil.

OPERATOR: Thank you. We will now move to our next question today. It comes from Thomas Gilbert from UBS. Please go ahead, sir.

THOMAS GILBERT, ANALYST, UBS: Yes, good afternoon. I've got a few questions as well. Could you quantify in the leather chemicals business actually the performance year-over-year in the true leather chemicals bit versus the contribution that you might have made from selling excess chrome into the emerging market, and what you see in terms of that portion into the second half as metal prices are starting to come down? That's my first question.

My second question, the volume growth in the Performance Polymers business, 12%, obviously helped by the strike and etc., what do you think -- it sounds like you're more cautious on costs than on demand. What do you think the underlying volume growth then is at the moment for that cluster?

And my final question, it's a bit of an odd one, why do you move the headquarters to Cologne, please?

MATTHIAS ZACHERT: Yes, let's address them one-by-one, and here as far as the leather we don't segregate. We don't give breakdowns by business unit, and we wouldn't start to do that on a, as well call it, internally business line level. The only thing and clarity I would like to give to you is that the organic side of leather is simply not performing that well, but we've compensated fully with chrome ore and chrome assets that we sell to the merchant market. So this is the one statement, and please understand that we are not sharing further information in this regard.

However, what we are trying, of course, is to continuously improve the market situation and see what opportunities arise. On the chrome side, however, the indication I would like to give to you, while some metal prices, of course, have gone down, it is not necessarily the case with the chrome prices that we see in the market. They remain at high level. And as a net effect, we've posted further price increases on chrome also for the third quarter. And they will come through in the third quarter as we have increased chrome prices also in the second quarter, as the product is scarce. And from all what we see, there will be volatility on metal and on chrome ore, but from our understanding of this business, we think that chrome ore will become tighter with some volatility one quarter and the other. So this is the answer on your leather question.

Let me come to Performance Polymers. The organic growth here for the segment, we've always indicated to be in the area of 3% to 4%. This is, for us, the long-term increase in rubber demand that we see over the next few years, and this is basically the answer to your question. Of course, here right now, in Q2, we saw a very, very strong momentum, and I think there will be quarters where, on the volume side, you will have further momentum coming, potentially being in the same area, like Q2, potentially. Q2, however, had a strong seasonality, which might not be the case for all the remaining quarters. But the underlying growth in rubber for ourselves is unchanged in the area of 3% to 4%, depending on if it's high performance, where we'll be slightly higher, standard grades, we'll be slightly lower. And depending on the markets, (inaudible) countries, we forecast in the area of 5% to 7%, while the Western hemisphere, we basically forecast to be rather in the 1% to 2% area.

And on to the last question, headquarters, well, pretty simple. I think we have never had the chance to put our own headquarters in place. We've always been, spread it around Leverkusen in different buildings, and it's the last step for us to get the independence here complete. We've always planned for that, that at some point in time we would do that.

Of course, eventually, it has to do with some simple things. We understand from our old mother company that they want more consolidate their business in the Leverkusen area after they've made certain changes in their portfolio setup, so as we are renting a lot of offices here and there in Leverkusen, for us it's a wash in terms of price, if we go to Cologne or elsewhere. We could even go to more fancier places, where rents are lower compared to what we are paying in Leverkusen, so we have the same benefits, or we have the same P&L exposure, while being able to now put all headquarter functions in one space. They can talk to each other, and can accelerate even further on the business decisions that we take on a daily basis.

So overall, it's something that is a natural move, because after being three years on the Leverkusen side, I think, for those of you who come to Leverkusen, you still see that we are framed or fenced in a situation that, for an independent company with our kind of mindset, is not the appropriate state, and that was the reason why we decided for, let's go somewhere that doesn't cause turbulences for employees, etc., and the place close by with access infrastructure-wise was Cologne, and that's the reason why we decided for that.

THOMAS GILBERT: Excuse me, can I just ask -- the 12% volume growth, again, you can rule out that customers have been buying ahead of price rises that you flagged [earlier], so there's no pre-buying here for the third quarter in rubber, you think?

MATTHIAS ZACHERT: (inaudible), this is a very good point, and when I saw the growth rate, which didn't come completely as a surprise, but it was a few percentage points higher than I had expected, I basically make the check business by business, in Performance Polymers. Of course, (inaudible) I cannot completely out rule that there were pre-orders in some and the other areas, so, however, the pre-orders that I have heard, in one and the other business units, they wouldn't account for a substantial amount. So if you take out round about EUR10 million or something like that, I think you're on the safe side. I cannot fully out rule that we saw some pre-buying, but it was not a massive pre-buying. Otherwise, our sales development in July would have been different, and from the volume side in July, I don't see a change in trend. The momentum in July and also what we see for the remainder of third quarter, in the order book, looks good.

THOMAS GILBERT: Thank you.

MATTHIAS ZACHERT: But you cannot always achieve a 12% volume increase. This is something that is -- I like some level of reality, here.

THOMAS GILBERT: Thank you.

MATTHIAS ZACHERT: Thank you.

OPERATOR: Thank you. We'll now move to our next question today, from Andreas Heine from Unicredit. Please go ahead, sir.

ANDREAS HEINE, ANALYST, UNICREDIT: Good afternoon. I basically have only two questions. First is the concerns you have on raw material prices. Do I understand you right, that it is mainly in the Performance Polymers area, not so much in the two others, if it comes in the (inaudible) and the fast increase you expect in Q3?

And on the outlook, again, if I make some more calculations that you have been EUR13 million about last year's level in the first half, and that you have probably positive consolidation impact of EUR15 million to EUR20 million in the second half, and that the floor of your guidance is EUR19 million below last year's level. That gives you roughly EUR50 million for the second half as a buffer. Is that what you need as certainty to achieve at least this level of EUR700 million, specifically on the spread, which might change between price increases and raw material price increases, because if I look through all of your comments you have given on the underlying business, volume and underlying business trends are not your concerns? Thank you.

MATTHIAS ZACHERT: Very good analysis, Mr. Heine. Let me address the two questions. Raw material, the raw material spike that you are going to see in Q3 will be everywhere. And here, of course, in Performance Chemicals, naturally, due to the petrochemical exposure, and now the high oil price eating through the chain, so the derivatives of oil are the ones that come through in Q3. We've seen parts of that only in Q2. The biggest chunk will come in Q3, and therefore, naturally, that it's going to be an element where Performance Polymers will be exposed the most.

But again, we have good market positions here, and we have shown that in the past. But it will not stay with Performance Polymers. It will be also in Advanced Intermediates and Performance Chemicals. They are different in nature, but if you look at iron cast, for instance, you've seen, not like sulfur, a 300% or 400% increase, but more than 100% increase for the entire year. So all of the businesses, I think, in the chemical industries are currently exposed, with a Q3 quarter, which is going to be tough, and I think, here, the ones with good market positions will be able to make the difference. The ones that have managed pricing on raw materials in the past, they will be able to make the difference.

But now I come to, in combination, also to your second question. Whether as in the companies, we -- if it's the (inaudible) or if it's the levels below, we are there for the long term. And we have to -- our target is to give level of comfort as much as we can to the investors that are with us for the longer period of time. So that's the reason why we say, we will work as hard as always in the last three years to make sure that we roll over raw materials one to one. However, we cannot manage the raw material pass-through always with 100% precision on one quarter and the other quarter, and that's the reason why we are simply more cautious. If we don't get all the contracts, for instance, within one quarter adjusted, automatically, in a quarter with high increase of raw materials, you will take a hit for one quarter. And this was the classical lag effect that you've seen in mechanical industries for so many years.

What we are trying to do, however, as you've seen in Q1 and Q2, we tried to mitigate, and potentially tried, even within the quarter, to iron it out. But there's no reason right now, with all the volatility that you see, to change the guidance, or to change the model, etc., and that's the reason why we said, let's provide the floor, let's give a level of comfort to those that want to stay with us for a longer period of time, they get the level of comfort while understanding that we feel very comfortable with what we show to the street, but on the quarters, we want to deliver. And that's the inspiration of our company, that's the energy that you've seen in the past, and that's what we put on the road, also, in the forthcoming quarters and years.

ANDREAS HEINE: And maybe once again, as I'm a little bit puzzled about how important the raw materials are in Q3. In the first quarter, (inaudible) magnitude, if I remember right, of EUR60 million increase, and you had price increases in the same magnitude. In the second quarter, you had raw material price increases of EUR80 million, and EUR120 million price increases. What is the magnitude we have to look for, for raw material prices in the third quarter, as contract prices are already fixed?

MATTHIAS ZACHERT: Yes, I give you more precision. Q1, out of the back of my head, was EUR56 million on raw material increase, in Q2, it's precisely EUR82 million. Of course, excluding electricity, this is purely raw material. And we do think, for raw materials, this reflects round about the price increase of, in the area, 10% to 12%. We rather think that in the third quarter, we are going to see a price increase on the raw materials between 15% and 20%, 20% clearly being the worst case, 15% being what we would normally expect. So, the point I would like to make, raw material increase is steep in Q3. However, we've addressed that already from June onwards, and we are currently, day by day, executing on price increases around the globe.

But this is where I would ask, from your [ends] in the capital markets, some understanding of what we are doing. We tried to improve our portfolio and make it resilient, and I think we've shown that with Q1 and Q2, but we want to be in the volatile environments, cautious, and provide the floor, so that people are comfortable and don't come back to us and say, your guidance has been too aggressive. I think in the environment where, in Q3, you had a lot of loose ends, the one thing where you have to give us some respect is that we will fight hard to sail through this quarter nicely, but we want to manage the quarter with a certain further development as we go ahead. That's the reason why we, at this point in time, are confident, but we are, of course, on the conservative side for the remainder of the year, in terms of numbers and floor to the investors.

MICHAEL PONTZEN: The next question, please.

OPERATOR: Thank you. We'll now move to our next question, from Jennifer Barker from Lehman Brothers. Please go ahead, madam.

JENNIFER BARKER, ANALYST, LEHMAN BROTHERS: Thank you very much. Could I just come back to the (inaudible) accounts? Can I just understand, are you saying that certain volumes, in tonnage terms, are secured at a stable return on what? Have you essentially moved yourself into a position of [total] manufacturer? And what is the scale -- how material in terms of the overall performance (inaudible) business, how material is this particular type of contract?

MATTHIAS ZACHERT: Hello, Jennifer. I think this is a good question, but you need to understand that all levels of granularity, in terms of customers, contracts, etc., are ones that we keep to ourselves. What I would like to convey with this statement that I've given earlier is, however, we manage our business, and where appropriate, we lock in accounts that eventually could be more volatile, and I've written some reports where we were considered in rubber as swing producer, and this is exactly what I think has completely changed in Lanxess. We have become the leading synthetic rubber producer, and more and more people understand the quality, the premium that we sell, and that is the reason why we've managed this business 14 quarters in a row in a successful way. But of course, everywhere, we have to assess our customers and see how, in good terms, we get in some stability on our cash flow profitability for the future, while be able for all this facility and premium products that we have beat the market in terms of success rates and profitability.

JENNIFER BARKER: Can I just clarify -- you made the statement right at the beginning that you see no change in the momentum in rubber to the year end. Is that because of your own commercial arrangements, or is that an observation about the wider market?

MATTHIAS ZACHERT: If you would read statements out of Asia or Latin America, you would see that, world-wide, rubber remains tight. And that's the reason why we give this level of comfort on our businesses. It's not only the contractual situation, which I think we, worldwide, manage. It's also a situation where, driven by the worldwide increase in mobility, which is fostered by the emerging countries, we see that, year-on-year, there should be further growth coming to synthetic rubber. And that's the reason why this is currently leading to a tight market, being translated in our specific case to volume and price increases, and we don't see that the worldwide volume is suddenly coming to a decline. We rather see, as indicated earlier, an ongoing growth rate of the 3% to 4% we indicated before.

JENNIFER BARKER: Thank you.

MATTHIAS ZACHERT: Most welcome.

OPERATOR: Thank you. We will now move to our next question today, from [Nick Oliver] from Merrill Lynch. Please go ahead.

NICK OLIVER, ANALYST, MERRILL LYNCH: Hi, Matthias, it's Nick here. Just two questions left. Firstly, on basic chemicals, you made the comment that agro demand and very strong as expected, but also the non-agro areas were holding up quite well. Could you just confirm that, of the other, the non-agro end markets, (inaudible) coatings and construction, etc., they actually are seeing positive momentum, or are we seeing a decrease in any of those individual end markets? Just a rough guidance comment there.

And secondly, you made a comment that, in performance rubber, there had been nothing materially in terms of July trading to suggest material pre-buying. Could you, perhaps, across other divisions, just comment whether there has been any material change in (inaudible) volumes, order patterns, since the end of H1, or if there has been? That would be great. Thank you.

MATTHIAS ZACHERT: Yes, Nick. Let's come to basic chemicals, and here, I think, the indication that we have given through our business unit [heads] in 2006, but also in 2007, is, the industry has been more consolidated where we are operating, 0.1 and 0.2, that we are basically supplying to 34 different end industries. And, of course, there are some end industries that are softer, like construction, like automotive, also some specific plastics areas, but even in plastics, there are others who are growing strongly, like the polyurethanes, etc. So we do have some industries that are softer, but the majority of the industries still show good momentum, and these are the signals we are getting, also, at this point in time, for basic chemicals. It's currently not so much the volume that I would be concerned of. It would be, simply, passing on electricity, raw material costs, and we are trying to do it as we go ahead, in Q3 and Q4. We have to see if we will be always able to do that 100%, but we are fighting for that. So at this point in time, I cannot give you any alerts on volumes, the opposite. I show you strong Q1 results, strong Q2 results, and basic chemicals compared to many other intermediate players, I think is the business that has helped us hold up pretty strongly so far, and we have no different indications, because a lot the other end industries that Basic Chemicals supplies to, namely agro, remain in a very healthy setup.

With this, I come to the July question. Of course, I do understand that giving precise color on July buying, business segments, business units, and then business line, is something that is always helpful, but I would simply like to keep it where our CEO, Axel [Hagman], said it this morning, we started well with July and therefore I cannot give you any alerts on the company, the difference. We started well and what we have to manage in Q3, and that will be the question for ourselves but also for the rest of the industry, a spark in raw materials and we are proactively addressing that, and that's the question we have for Q3 in front of us and we are confident that we address that as we have done that in the past.

NICK OLIVER: Okay. Thank you. That's great.

OPERATOR: Thank you. We'll now move to our next question today from Norbert Spart from WestLB. Please go ahead.

NORBERT SPART, ANALYST, WESTLB: Yes, hello. (inaudible). I have a further question on the raw material price increases. So, as you mentioned that Q3 will be heavily influenced, perhaps what I want to have a little bit of feeling on it is that if you see now oil prices going down and perhaps within time there'll be some oil derivatives going down. Do you see a danger that with further price increases clients might not accept that because -- saying, okay, we have already reached the peak and perhaps it's going down now. Is that why you are more cautious on that and in Q3 especially?

And second question, perhaps can you give us the figures for the Petroflex EBITDA contribution? It looks to be a little bit -- at least below my present calculation.

And thirdly, you mentioned in the Saltigo business that pharma was a little bit weakened. Is that a trend or was it only for seasonal, quarterly reasons or is there a specific issue there?

MATTHIAS ZACHERT: Yes, Mr. Spart. Let me give you the answers in respective order. As far as the raw materials are concerned, the derivatives of oil and the other respective process chemicals, they're all going down in Q3. So for that reason we don't expect any help coming from that end. But it's not a question of help or concern. It's a question of portfolio and pricing power. And this is what we have to manage, so here, as in the past, we will work on getting prices up for the respective raw materials, and thus manage our EBITDA internal expectations. When prices on the derivatives and other process chemicals will come down, of course, you know that we have index contracts. The margin will be locked in, however, the product prices will be adjusted therefore it's something that is not as a concern on our agenda. But it will be a natural move I think in the entire chemical industry, when product prices, raw material product prices are coming down, then of course, some of the end product prices of the chemical industry will come down. It is just as things go up, they go up and as things go down, they go down.

Now let's come to the Petroflex question. We've given the guidance of EUR34 million to EUR40 million for nine months and we are fully in line with this guidance. We will not convey quarterly numbers on Petroflex in 2009. We will also not convey more detailed numbers because it's part of our Lanxess rubber business, notably polybutadiene rubber, or performance butadiene rubber, and that will be the focus of our confidence as we go into the future. But you shouldn't be concerned about this particular business unit because all levels of clarity I tried to give early on.

And now for Sortigo. It's an auction business in terms of pharma, so when product portfolios change, or the mix of the products change, you can see some volatility in quarterly margins or performance, but this is nothing that should irritate you. I've given indication early on that for Sortigo we're on track to improve the business 2008 versus 2007, full year.

MICHAEL PONTZEN: Next question, please.

OPERATOR: Thank you. We'll now move to our next question today which comes from Paul Walsh from Morgan Stanley. Please go ahead.

PAUL WALSH, ANALYST, MORGAN STANLEY: Thanks very much. Good afternoon, gentlemen. Actually, most of my questions have been answered but just two quick ones. Working capital reversals in the second half of the year, is that possible? That's the first question. And the second question, just outside of the take or pay contracts that you put in place, what's your typical order book visibility for the balance of the business? Thanks very much.

MATTHIAS ZACHERT: Hello, Paul. As far as working capital is concerned, normally we always have a decrease of absolute working capital in Q3, Q4. That's the trend that you've seen also in the first three years of Lanxess. However, due to the raw material increase that we will see in Q3, this could be different, i.e., meaning a slight increase in working capital, which normally was never the case in third quarter because here we in the past have used our inventory build-up that we've taken on board in Q1 and Q2 due to planned maintenance that we normally do in the second half year. So here, my feeling would be that rather from Q4 onwards we start seeing a reduction on the inventories and receivables side, while in Q3 working capital might still go up.

So that's question number one, and as far as question number two is concerned, you asked for the underlying momentum and here I come back to what I've said before. The underlying momentum, that I've especially explained on rubber, is positive and there's no change in our sentiments as regards this core segment in our portfolio.

PAUL WALSH: So, very clear, Matthias. Thanks a lot.

MATTHIAS ZACHERT: Thanks, Paul.

OPERATOR: We now move to our next question today from Ronald Koehler from MainFirst. Please go ahead.

RONALD KOEHLER, ANALYST, MAINFIRST BANK: Yes, hello. First question, could you give us the final net debt number of Petroflex when you took it on board? Did you have some indication when you acquired Petro -- or announced the acquisition around EUR100 million. Could you provide us a final number, please?

Second question, you showed that nice chart on table, or page, seven regarding the Asian market for the rubber area. Could you give an indication how you position it? I actually guess you're still lower in the weight of Asia or can you a little bit lighten up here and how the development could go for you over the next one or two years with your -- over the next years with your investments.

And the last question is on hedges. You obviously book your hedging gains in others, and others was actually slightly lower than I would have expected. Can you quantify the other -- the hedging gain that you had or are you giving any indications on that please?

Oh, and another last question. In terms of Petroflex, any special things like PPA or inventory write-up effects over the next quarter? Do you expect anything here meaningful?

MATTHIAS ZACHERT: Yes, Herr Koehler, let me address them again one by one. So as far as final net debt is concerned of Petroflex it's more or less where we have guided the markets to when we announced the transaction December 2007, so the indication was round about EUR110 million and the net debt that we have taken on board is -- I mean I will not give you now the precise number that we've consolidated, but it's not substantially different than the first indication that we've given. And of course, if there are changes to this, this will have respective purchase price adjustment triggers.

Now, as far as hedges is concerned, the hedge gain that we had in Q2 were EUR20 million, so it was slightly higher than in Q1, which was EUR15 million as we indicated, and here also the indication in Q3, Q4 the hedging gains will go down because currently the dollar is strengthening so potentially we have seen the peak of the hedging gains in Q2. But of course, if the dollar is strengthening we are not sad about that. We are rather having a smile on our face. But you should see in any case that our hedging position in Q3 and Q4 is lower compared to Q1 and Q2 and I've given the guidance for that already with Q1 results.

Now, on the special things like PPA, we've done PPA, in precise terms the purchase price accounting. Of course, we had to do that in course of the consolidation process so we've done that. And I've given a rough indication with Q1 conference call that this would be somewhere in the single-digit area. So this will be precise calculation on a full-year basis, i.e. four quarters, not three quarters, between EUR12 million and EUR15 million. So we have made a step up in the asset base and we are still reviewing, especially on the patent sites and the trademarks, etc. the amortization periods. Of course we have currently locked that in stone but the current PP or the step up depreciation that we are envisioning for -- on an annual basis for the next one or two years will be in the area of EUR12 million to EUR15 million.

Now I think with the Asian markets, it's here the answer's we are gaining momentum. You've seen that over the proportional set up that we've shown in our earlier slides in the presentation, and of course with the growth in Asia and with the approach actions we take in Asia, like (inaudible), Singapore we should see that the Asian growth in the future we will benefit from that through our local presence, also in (inaudible), for instance, the production.

RONALD KOEHLER: Just a question. If I rightly understand chart seven, then this is the global worldwide demand you're putting in there. Can you give us an indication how big for your rubber business, or your three businesses, is Asia today already?

MATTHIAS ZACHERT: So I think the detailed explanation of that is something that's in one of our more details presentations that we will give with one of the other Capital Market days. I think that then we could give more color on that, but I would like to leave it at the example -- as the overview that we have given currently with page seven. This is giving good color to our regional split up and I would like to leave it like that.

RONALD KOEHLER: Okay, thank you.

MICHAEL PONTZEN: Ladies and gentlemen, due to the timing we are able to take one more question now, so please the last questioner now, please.

OPERATOR: Thank you. We'll take our last question today from Rhian Tucker from Credit Suisse. Please go ahead.

RHIAN TUCKER, ANALYST, CREDIT SUISSE: Yes, good afternoon. I actually have a couple of questions, if we have time. First of all, on Petroflex. Obviously with it being a Brazilian company the seasonality of it may be a bit different. Can you please talk us through how strong you expect it to be in the various quarters, both in the sales and in the profit rate? The second question is on your depreciation. Obviously that didn't rise that much year-on-year despite the acquisition of Petroflex. Can you give us a guidance for the full year and going forward?

And also the cash depreciation was particularly low this half. Can you explain why that was? Will that come back in the second half? Or is there something peculiar there?

Another question, on the ammonia sulfate. Can you please tell us the exact impact of that on the Performance Polymers division and whether you expect that going forward?

And the final question, if I can, on the exceptional financials. Do you expect any impact of that in the third and fourth quarter? Thank you.

MATTHIAS ZACHERT: Yes, let's make them quick, one by one. Seasonality of EBITDA, normally Q1 is the weakest quarter in Brazil because of simply the seasonality, the southern hemisphere, etc., carnival in Rio etc., you name it. So Q1 is normally always weaker while Q2, Q3, Q4 are pretty stable. So in themselves Q2 to Q4 are the more stable quarters, similar in nature. But of course here the respective probability always depends on pricing, volume, specifically when you change raw material prices, product prices, etc. But from an underlying trend Q2 to Q4 are comparable while Q1 is normally the weakest quarter.

Now for ammonium sulfate, here for the remainder of Q3, Q4 also here we assumed that ammoniac and sulfate are going to spur, going up highly and the same we see happening on the fertilizer site, so also here we most likely will achieve a wash. This is what we currently assume in terms of P&L contribution.

And as far as exceptional financials are concerned, as indicated earlier in the conference call, in the other financial costs we have written off round about EUR30 million for Lustran. This most likely is not going to come again in Q3 and Q4 because there's not a lot left, and this will rather be an element I guess for 2009 and therefore this should be clean for Q3 and Q4.

As far as cash depreciation is concerned, I've not heard this name before, so possibly you want to take that up with Investor Relations.

RHIAN TUCKER: Okay, thank you.

MATTHIAS ZACHERT: Ladies and gentlemen, with this I would like to close Q2 conference call and the point I would like to make here is I think we have shown another quarter that's what we set before, the portfolio set up is reflecting the changes that we've done in the last three years. We have let go of difficult businesses at the right point in time. We've changed the structure through many, many cost initiatives that we even now are in the process of implementing further. And you see that the entire change of the business model in all the businesses is yielding results, and that's the reason why Lanxess has been able to show second quarter, in a more difficult environments, that we are energized as ever and we are looking confident into the future and looking forward to seeing and speaking you in the forthcoming days on our road show. Thank you very much, and bye-bye.

OPERATOR: That will conclude today's conference call. Thank you for your participation, ladies and gentlemen. You may now disconnect.

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Company / organization: Name: BTR PLC; Ticker: BTRU; NAICS: 551112; DUNS: 21-277-7783; Name: Thomson Financial; NAICS: 551111

Publication title: Fair Disclosure Wire; Linthicum

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 13, 2008

Publisher: CQ Roll Call

Place of publication: Linthicum

Country of publication: United States, Linthicum

Publication subject: Business And Economics, Law--Corporate Law

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

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Last updated: 2018-02-23

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Document 221 of 313

2nd UPDATE: Brazil Brewer AmBev Sees 2Q Profits Drop

Publication info: Dow Jones Institutional News ; New York [New York]14 Aug 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

(Updates with additional details and comments from company executives)

By Alastair Stewart

Of

SAO PAULO (Dow Jones)--Brazilian brewer Companhia de Bebidas das Americas (ABV), known as AmBev, saw its second-quarter net profits drop due to unusually wet weather and an early Carnival in Brazil, as well as goodwill amortizations and high exchange translation losses.

Early Thursday, the company reported a profit of 402.1 million Brazilian reals ($248 million), down from BRL448.7 million in the same quarter a year ago.

The bottom line was slightly lower than expected. A survey of three analysts, conducted by the local Estado newswire, had an average forecast of BRL600.8 million.

But the results were seen as largely neutral by investors. Ambev stocks were 1.4% higher at BRL100.44 in early afternoon trade on the Brazilian Stock Exchange, or Bovespa, while the benchmark Ibovespa was 0.6% higher.

"We continued to show strong results, especially in Brazil where we bounced back after a difficult first quarter," said Graham Staley, AmBev's chief financial officer, during a conference call with analysts.

AmBev, Brazil's largest producer of beer and soft drinks, reported that second-quarter revenues increased to BRL4.74 billion from BRL4.5 billion in the year-ago period.

Consolidated beverage sales reached 32.77 billion hectoliters in the second quarter, up from 31.2 billion seen in the second quarter of 2007.

Brazilian sales were impacted by seasonal factors. The Carnival holiday fell in the first quarter in 2008, instead of the second quarter, as is more normal.

Meanwhile, wet weather, especially in June, also hurt sales in Brazil.

Earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization, or EBITDA, increased to BRL1.98 billion in the second quarter, up from BRL1.84 billion in the year-ago period.

The company ended the second quarter with an EBITDA margin of 41.7%, up from 40.7% in the year-ago period.

The company managed to keep operating expenses under control, totaling BRL437.1 million last quarter compared with BRL443.8 million in the year-before period.

Ambev is part of Belgian brewer InBev (INB.BT), which was formed in 2004 when Belgium's Interbrew took control of AmBev in an $11 billion cash-and-stock deal.

AmBev doesn't see new, more stringent, drink-and-driving laws having a great impact on its business here.

"Most Brazilian consumers don't travel in cars. They drink in neighborhoods or where they are," said Luiz Fernando Edmond, head of AmBev in Latin America.

In fact, market growth, inflation and weather are much more important influences than the new law, he said.

Recent market data showed that Ambev had lost 70 basis points of market share in July, month on month, taking share to 66.7%.

"We are studying the reasons for the decline and will act with precision once the reasons are established," said Edmond.

The counterattack could include price cuts in specific areas, he added.

Pressure on commodities prices and the resultant costs of hedges remain strong in 2008, but it will tend to ease in 2009, said Staley.

Ambev's net debt totaled BRL8.13 billion at the end of the second quarter, down from BRL8.22 billion seen in the first quarter.

-By Alastair Stewart, ; 55-11-2847 4520; alastair.stewart@dowjones.com

Click here to go to Dow Jones NewsPlus, a web front page of today's most important business and market news, analysis and commentary: http://www.djnewsplus.com/al?rnd=%2FbT9qSUJUcGj1l0znpI5Rg%3D%3D. You can use this link on the day this article is published and the following day.

(END)

August 14, 2008 13:30 ET (17:30 GMT)

Subject: Acquisitions & mergers; Corporate profits; Breweries; Corporate profiles; Price cuts

Location: Brazil Belgium Latin America

People: Edmond, Luiz Fernando

Company / organization: Name: InBev SA; NAICS: 312120; Name: AmBev SA; NAICS: 312120; Name: Sao Paulo Stock Exchange; NAICS: 523210

Publication title: Dow Jones Institutional News; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 14, 2008

Publisher: Dow Jones & Company Inc

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2244747346

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Copyright: Copyright Dow Jones & Company Inc Aug 14, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-22

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Document 222 of 313

A danceable feast: Wildly rhythmic Gregorio Uribe Big Band adds Colombian flavor to Latin Fest

Author: Duckett, Richard

Publication info: Telegram & Gazette ; Worcester, Mass. [Worcester, Mass]14 Aug 2008: E.1.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

"I thought it was going to be a disaster. We were waiting for an hour. There was no way to get off and get a cab," [Gregorio Uribe] recalled. Others also were waiting and wondering. "It was horrible. Not only for him, but for us, too," said Carmen D. "Dolly" Vazquez, organizer of the festival, which is sponsored by Centro Las Americas.

"I really didn't have too many hopes, but I auditioned for a scholarship (to Berklee)." He won a scholarship, but before settling in at Berklee he and two friends embarked on a six- month musical tour of South America. "We were backpacking and playing in the streets," Uribe said. The streets of Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador ...

As he crosses over from singing to drums, the band may have already crossed over in a different sort of context. "Strangely enough, I've got the best results from people who are not Hispanic and Latin Americans," he said of audience reaction. The band's diverse textures (and perhaps Uribe's travels) have given it crossover appeal. "It's not too specific like something like Salsa," Uribe said of the band's sound.

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When the Gregorio Uribe Big Band takes the stage at 6 p.m. Sunday at the 2008 Latin American Festival, chances are they won't be playing the jazz classic "Take the 'A' Train" during the course of their 60 minute set, even though the 15-piece Colombian ensemble is open to jazz influences.

The Boston-based Uribe brought a smaller version of his band to last year's festival. They took the MBTA train from Boston to Worcester, but halfway through the trip the rhythm of the ride came to an unexpected halt - and stayed silent for about 60 minutes.

Uribe and his fellow musicians had a timetable of their own to worry about. Their performance time at the festival was getting ever closer as the train stayed ever stationary.

"I thought it was going to be a disaster. We were waiting for an hour. There was no way to get off and get a cab," Uribe recalled. Others also were waiting and wondering. "It was horrible. Not only for him, but for us, too," said Carmen D. "Dolly" Vazquez, organizer of the festival, which is sponsored by Centro Las Americas.

Then came a welcome sound - the train started up again. "We had to rush to get here," Uribe said.

Once at the festival, however, the day transformed itself. "I loved it. People wanted an encore. The crowd was great," Uribe said.

So Uribe is coming back, this time with the Gregorio Uribe Big Band. Vazquez, for one, is thrilled. "He is wonderful, and so colorful," she said.

The musical colors reflect Colombian rhythms and traditions, but also other streams and strands of music that Uribe has experienced and explored. "It's a Colombian fusion in a way," he said.

A fusion forged in part by the 23-year-old Uribe's already numerous travels - by train, plane, bus and automobile. "I've had a chance to do some traveling," Uribe acknowledged.

Born in Bogota, Colombia, he did not come from a musical family but credits his parents and sister for giving him unconditional support in his artistic exploits. These included taking up the drums and guitar from an early age, writing songs, and forming various bands.

When he was 15 he got a bit of culture shock when his parents moved the family to Australia for a while. "That was a completely different side of the world," he aid.

He maintained interest in his Colombian musical roots by learning to play the accordion and transcribing the songs of Rafael Orozco and Alejo Duran. He also became particularly proficient as a drummer - so much so that he got to attend a summer program at the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston.

"I really didn't have too many hopes, but I auditioned for a scholarship (to Berklee)." He won a scholarship, but before settling in at Berklee he and two friends embarked on a six- month musical tour of South America. "We were backpacking and playing in the streets," Uribe said. The streets of Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, Bolivia, Ecuador ...

In Brazil, "We went there the time that the carnivals were happening. No one wanted to hear Colombian music, but in every restaurant there was a singer and a band. That was good to see."

His studies at Berklee emphasized drum set performance and arranging. He also became interested in big band arranging. He graduated in May 2007.

Since then he's been able to keep rolling by playing music. He worked at Berklee for a year playing for classes, and has performed in various gigs with different bands.

"That's what I'm doing today," he said during a telephone interview last week. He was on his way to New York City for a performance with a band. He was traveling by bus.

Then there's his own Gregorio Uribe Big Band. "My goal would be to really work with this project, the big band, full time in the sense I would have enough going, but I'm pen to other options like playing in bands," he said.

A challenge for the big band may come beginning next month, when Uribe plans to move from Boston to New York. Still, he said "I want to do whatever it takes" to make the band succeed.

As for keeping such a large group together, Uribe said, "I try to. The ideal thing is to keep the same people, but in reality there always has to be someone who can't make it. I have to understand they have to stay busy to work."

Uribe fronts the band as a singer and plays some percussion and accordion. At one point during a performance, "I like to get up on the drums and maybe do a solo."

As he crosses over from singing to drums, the band may have already crossed over in a different sort of context. "Strangely enough, I've got the best results from people who are not Hispanic and Latin Americans," he said of audience reaction. The band's diverse textures (and perhaps Uribe's travels) have given it crossover appeal. "It's not too specific like something like Salsa," Uribe said of the band's sound.

By the way, Uribe and the band won't be coming to Worcester from Boston by train on Sunday.

"Definitely not. We have a van. We're gonna be driving. I don't want to take the risk this time, not with 15 people," Uribe said.

Vazquez sounded pleased. "He's better off with the van," she said.

--------------------------------------------------

2008 Latin American Festival

When: Noon to 9 p.m. Saturday and Sunday

Where: Front of Worcester City Hall, 455 Main St., Worcester

How much: Free

--------------------------------------------------

Credit: TELEGRAM & GAZETTE STAFF

Illustration

PHOTO; Caption: Gregorio Uribe fronts his 15-piece band as a singer and plays some percussion and accordion. The band is set to play at 6 p.m. Sunday.

People: Uribe, Gregorio

Publication title: Telegram & Gazette; Worcester, Mass.

First page: E.1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 14, 2008

Section: LIVING

Publisher: GateHouse Media, Inc.

Place of publication: Worcester, Mass.

Country of publication: United States, Worcester, Mass.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 10504184

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 269021952

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/269021952?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2008 New York Times Company. All Rights Reserved.

Last updated: 2017-11-14

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 223 of 313

Markets Friday: FTSE reverses early gains

Author: Crosland, Jonas

Publication info: Investors Chronicle ; London (Aug 15, 2008).

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SUMMARY: Weak commodity stocks drag the Footsie down

Leading shares have relinquished early gains, and the FTSE100 index fell below the 5,500 level to stand 25.2 points lower at 5,472.2. Much of the reversal reflects further weakness in mining stocks as base metal prices drop away. Mid-cap stocks are also out of favour, and the FTSE250 index was off 25 points at 9,110. Trading volume was especially weak however at just GBP690m.

Nickel dropped 2.6 per cent on the London Metal Exchange, FT.Com reports, while copper and zinc also fell. Meanwhile gold fell nearly 2 per cent, back below $800 an ounce. Resource stocks dominated the top 10 list of fallers on the benchmark index. Kazakhmys lost 5.2 per cent to GBP11.96. Vedanta Resources fell 4.7 per cent to GBP17.22. The sell off in the energy markets also resumed, pushing Nymex crude oil back below $114 a barrel. BG Group eased 1 per cent to GBP11.28, and BP remained flat at 527p.

But companies with high exposure to fuel costs were better off, and cruise operator Carnival rose 1.2 per cent to GBP19.39, while British Airways, which on Thursday announced plans to join forces with American Airlines and Iberia, added 2.1 per cent to 259p. Budget airline Easyjet climbed 2.6 per cent to 364p, while larger rival Ryanair jumped more than 4.8 per cent to 2.77.

Retailers had a rally following John Lewis' announcement of a 9.3 per cent increase in year on year weekly sales, for the week to August 9. Marks & Spencer was up 3.6 per cent to 275 1/4p and Next followed with a rise of 3.5 per cent to GBP10.38p.

One of the biggest factors in the commodity sell off was the rising dollar. The US currency rose 0.6 per cent to $1.8569 against the pound, taking sterling's losses in the past month to 7.8 per cent.

By the close of its GBP400m rights issue Bradford & Bingley shares were trading at 0.25p above the issue price of 55p.

Michael Page, the recruitment agency, fell after it announced it was ending discussions and rejecting a GBP1.3bn unsolicited approach from Swiss rival Adecco. The Michael Page board said that Adecco's offer "materially undervalued" the company. The shares lost 6 per cent to 315p.

DAILY TECHNICAL COMMENT

For daily comment on index breadth from Investor Intelligence, click here

MARKET DATA

For full stock market data, see our market data centre

OVERSEAS MARKETS:

Shares were higher on Wall Street where the Dow Jones Industrial Average climbed 0.7 per cent to 11,615.93. In Asia, the Nikkei 225 rose 0.5 per cent in holiday-thinned trade to 13,019.41 but in Hong Kong the Hang Seng index lost 1 per cent in afternoon trading to 21,181.68 because of losses for commodity companies.

COMMODITIES:

Oil futures lost ground, with trading influenced by the expiry of options contracts. Underlying sentiment still pointed to lower prices amid mounting evidence of a global slowdown in demand. Base metal prices were mostly firmer, while gold lost ground in the face of a strengthening dollar. Soft commodities were generally weaker as harvest conditions remain favourable, although looking further ahead, prices may need to rise to promote more production in Brazil, now seen as a key soyabean supplier.

Commodity | Last close

|Gold London PM|$818.00oz|

|August Brent crude|$112.64/barrel|

|LME 3-mth Copper|$7,589.75/tonne|

|Baltic dry index (freight)|7,420|

|December carbon|23.43/unit|

FOREIGN EXCHANGE:

The eurocame under renewed pressure amid further evidence of an economic slowdown in the eurozone. With France, Germany, Spain and Italy all reporting a contraction in GDP, there are now suggestions that the ECB will be obliged to modify its hawkish stance on interest rates. Elsewhere, sterling continued its recent decline against a backdrop of falling output and rising inflation.

GBP1 EQUALS...

|1.259|

|$1.870|

|Sfr2.040|

|AYEN205.50|

For a summary of company announcements, and a round-up of business press headlines and share tips, click here.

Publication title: Investors Chronicle; London

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 15, 2008

Publisher: The Financial Times Limited

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: Business And Economics--Banking And Finance

ISSN: 02613115

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 236233565

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Copyright: (Copyright 2008 INVESTORS CHRONICLE. All rights reserved.)

Last updated: 2010-06-11

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 224 of 313

Feel Brazil: Asakusa Samba Carnival: Twenty teams will compete for honors in a thrilling annual spectacle set for Aug. 30

Author: Arita, Eriko

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune Business News ; Washington [Washington]15 Aug 2008.

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Aug. 15--Tokyo's Asakusa district, central to the capital's traditional shitamachi (downtown) area, will be filled with Brazilian rhythm on Aug. 30 for the 28th Asakusa Samba Carnival.

The event, held annually since 1981 on the last Saturday of August, was launched to revitalize the town by an association of local stores, modeling carnivals in Brazil. The festival drew some 500,000 spectators last year, according to the organizer.

The carnival, which runs from 1:30 to 6 p.m., is in contest style, and consists of two leagues. In the lower, or S2 league, nine teams will compete, while 11 teams will vie for honors in the higher S1 league. In total, some 4,700 participants will march while dancing, singing and playing musical instruments.

The samba teams select their own themes and make their own costumes.

The music they dance to is played by a percussion band called a bateria (Portuguese for "drums"). A bateria can consist of several different kinds of drums and rattles. Central to the samba rhythm are the powerful beats of the surdo (large, two-headed, cylindrical bass drums with a steel or wood shell), accented by shakers such as chocalhos and small snare drums. The dynamic and multilayered beats created by these instruments tend to sweep spectators into the samba spirit as well.

In addition to groups of dancers, who wear costumes representing particular themes, there are also solo dancers called passista, who often wear vivid-colored bikinis and feathers on their backs as they perform their dances.

At the 2007 festival, the team Uniao dos Amadores (Union of Amateurs) -- which has taken part in the carnival since it began -- won the S1 league for the first time in three years. Its members are mainly university students in the Kanto region. As last year's winners, Uniao dos Amadores will give the final performance of the carnival.

The parade starts from Umamichi Dori Street, which runs beside the Matsuya department store and Asakusa Station on the Tobu Line, and goes on to cross Kaminarimon Dori Street, which runs in front of the Kaminarimon Gate of Sensoji Temple. (The landmark gate is adorned with the large red lantern seen in many picture postcards of Tokyo.)

S2 league teams will start at 1:30 p.m., followed by the S1 league.

This carnival annually attracts large crowds of spectators and photographers, so competition can be stiff for a good spot along the 800-meter parade route.

The closest transportation hub is Asakusa Station, which serves the Ginza, Asakusa and Tobu lines. Kaminarimon Dori Street is also accessible from Tawaramachi Station on the Ginza subway line.

For more information, visit the carnival's official Web site (in Japanese only) at www.asakusa-samba.jp/index.htm

Credit: Japan Times, Tokyo

Subject: Carnivals

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune Business News; Washington

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 15, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: NEWS

ProQuest document ID: 464453823

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Copyright: To see more of the Japan Times or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.japantimes.co.jp.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/. Copyright (c) 2008, Japan Times, Tokyo Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Last updated: 2017-10-31

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 225 of 313

Brazil has 3 teams (sort of) in quarterfinals

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Aug 18, 2008.

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Abstract: None available.

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Carnival is coming to the Olympic beach volleyball venue, where pulsating music, sweltering heat and scantily clad dancers are making the Brazilians feel right at home.

Athens gold medalists Emanuel and Ricardo beat Americans Jake Gibb and Sean Rosenthal in Monday's quarterfinals to give Brazil two teams in the men's final four, along with a third that is Brazilian in all but their passports.

"We work hard to be at the top," Emanuel said after a 21-18, 21-16 victory put them in the final four against Marcio and Fabio. "It's always Brazil against Brazil. It's difficult."

A third men's team, Renato Gomes and Jorge Terceiro, became Georgian citizens to circumvent quotas that limit each country to two teams in the Olympic field of 24. Had they stayed home, they would have been the fifth-best team in Brazil, and failed to qualify for Beijing.

Instead, they will play Americans Todd Rogers and Phil Dalhausser in the other men's semifinal.

"Outside of court, they are Brazilian," Emanuel said. "But inside the court, they are Georgian."

Another Brazilian team, Talita and Renata, reached the women's semifinals and will play Americans Misty May-Treanor and Kerri Walsh. Two Chinese teams will play in the other women's semifinal.

"It's a huge, huge sport (in Brazil), and they grow up playing it," Gibb said. "You get everyone playing it, and you're going to have some good players."

Brazilian volleyball federation delegate Marco Teixeira was so excited over a previous victory that he ripped apart his own shirt, then strutted around the venue with the torn garment revealing his tanned chest. He restrained himself on Monday, but the crowds that sang and danced gave the venue a beach party atmosphere

"People are cheering. People are participating. That's why it's so beautiful," he said. "The life on the beach is a lifestyle we enjoy."

Gibb and Rosenthal matched the Brazilians at 12-all in both sets before Emanuel and Ricardo pulled away, calling on their experience to overcome ankle (Ricardo) and knee (Emanuel) injuries.

"They showed why they're the Olympic champions," Rosenthal said. "They're going to be tough to knock out. They step up big at big times."

Marcio and Fabio, the No. 2 Brazilian team, beat Florian Gosch and Alexander Horst in straight sets, 22-20, 21-17 earlier Monday. The Austrians were the No. 24 seed in the 24-team field.

Dalhausser and Rogers advanced by beating Germany 21-13, 25-23 after Eric Koreng was given the only red card so far in the Olympics. The one-point penalty broke an 8-8 tie, and no one was more upset about it than Rogers.

"I didn't like it," he said. "In a situation like this, a heated contest ... it's just not the right thing."

Koreng had gone to the referee to claim that Dalhausser had reached over the net to steal away a pass on the German side. Koreng drew a yellow card - a warning - and then a few seconds later Casutt raised the red card that added a point for the Americans.

It was just the sixth red card - men's or women's - in Olympic beach volleyball history.

"They were a little frustrated with themselves, and they were taking it out on the ref," said Rogers, who ambled over to referee Richard Casutt's net-side platform, shaking his head. "I said, I thought that's a little quick. Just a little quick on the draw."

But Koreng's partner, David Klemperer, was willing to let it go.

"It did not affect the game, so it is OK," he said. "It is about judgment. I think he tried to do his best."

The Americans will play on Wednesday against surprise semifinalist Georgia, which beat the fifth-seeded Netherlands in straight sets.

After winning 21-19, 21-19, Terceiro leapt over the fence surrounding the court and bounded through the stands to the top of the stadium, where he stood under the Georgian flag with his arms raised above his head.

The victory by the 15th-seeded Georgians means Dalhausser and Rogers can advance to the championship game without playing a team in the medal round seeded better than eighth. Terceiro and Gomes have never beaten the Americans; but they hadn't beaten the Dutch, either.

"If this is a message," Terceiro said, "it is well said."

Subject: Women; Teams; Volleyball

Location: Beijing China Brazil Netherlands Germany Georgia

People: May-Treanor, Misty Dalhausser, Phil Walsh, Kerri Rogers, Todd

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 18, 2008

Section: sports

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2221559610

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2221559610?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-09

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 226 of 313

28TEL Challenges Skype With 'Mobility on VOIP': Free Mobile International Calls Are Now Available in The U.S.; No Software, No Internet Access Needed

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: PR Newswire ; New York [New York]18 Aug 2008.

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Abstract:

28TEL is continuously expanding its service territory to cover the globe and to meet the demand of cheaper international calls, said Mr. Cola Cho, CEO of 28TEL, We have received lots of email requests to launch our service in the US, and we responded by covering nearly all of the US with our free calling services at a time when the largest global sports gala -- the Olympic Games -- is in full swing. Through the mobile phone's call forwarding setup, during roaming, the subscriber can be exempt from international roaming fees and receive all calls directly with local mobile phones.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

HONG KONG, Aug. 18 /Xinhua-PRNewswire/ -- Linkwell International (HK) Co., Ltd. announced today that 28TEL ( www.28tel.com ), the company's leading online mobile telecommunications service provider, is launching International "Free Call" service in the United States. This new service allows registered users to place free international calls via their mobile phones to over 20 other countries without extra software installed neither any internet access. Through Linkwell's latest industry-leading technology, 28TEL is also able to provide global subscribers to make free international calls with multi-lingual voice prompts and user interfaces, specifically including Chinese and Japanese.

(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080818/CNM004LOGO )

28TEL is launching this new service availability in the US just in time for 2008 Beijing Olympic Games, the largest global sports event.

"28TEL is continuously expanding its service territory to cover the globe and to meet the demand of cheaper international calls," said Mr. Cola Cho, CEO of 28TEL, "We have received lots of email requests to launch our service in the US, and we responded by covering nearly all of the US with our free calling services at a time when the largest global sports gala -- the Olympic Games -- is in full swing.

Now the US tourists and expats in China can celebrate this sports carnival by making free calls to their families and friends in the US using 28TEL's International "Free Call" service.

How does it work?

First time users simply dial 1-213-3666099 (English), 1-213-3666000 (Chinese), or 1-213-3666090 (Japanese) and enter the number of the person you wish to call -- your call will be connected shortly. After connected, 28TEL will send you a text message with the local number representing that person, so in the future you can simply call him directly by dialing this number.

Alternatively, you can log onto www.28tel.com, simply type in your friend's number, and 28TEL will give you the local phone number for that person so you can dial the number and talk to you friend overseas.

How to make a "Free call"?

Through this exclusive "Free call" service, a caller may dial a pre-mapped local 28TEL number to reach an overseas friend. When connected, by telling the friend to hang up and call back with the displayed number. The caller holds the line and waits for friend's callback within a limited time. This service allows people to enjoy international calls free of charge without a time limit.

Currently, "Free call" service has already been available in mainland China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Japan, Korea and Brazil, now the US, and will be soon extended to major countries in Europe and South America. Moreover, In China and Taiwan, the access numbers have been unified into nationwide 10175612999 and 08090022812.

"Today in the United States, calling card services have been addressing an ever-increasing need for affordable calling to and from USA," adds Cola. "But the 28TEL service differs from using a calling card in two important ways: first, our service is far easier to use from any phone without having to go out and buy a card, and second, 28TEL's Free Call is always free."

28TEL, with its advanced technologies, provides competitive international mobile calling services and rates. Compared with the standard mobile international calling rate, 28TEL is at least 70% cheaper. The mobile "roaming free" service is also strongly recommended. Through the mobile phone's call forwarding setup, during roaming, the subscriber can be exempt from international roaming fees and receive all calls directly with local mobile phones. It is quite cost-effective for people who frequently travel on international business and pleasure. For now, this "roaming free" service has been offered to subscribers in Asia and America. European subscribers will also enjoy this exemption in the near future.

In addition to super-low costs, 28TEL also boasts a friendly MUI (multiple-user interface). The phone numbers of overseas contacts can be quickly mapped through three different methods: text message, IVR (Interactive Voice Response) system and website. So you can conduct contact management any time. The system will assign corresponding local numbers for users to make direct calls. The mapped local number can be saved into the mobile phone contact list to facilitate the one-touch service. As a result, 28TEL thrives commercially and received good market responses immediately after the service was launched in Asia.

Today, it is common to make Internet phone calls via a computer or IP- phone with the extremely low fees. However, the Internet telephone has obvious disadvantages: the mobility of the user is limited, and the necessity of Internet access makes it impossible to dial anytime from anywhere in any desired way. Therefore, since the birth of VoIP technology, industry experts consider the application of this technology to mobile phones as an extreme goal. Compared with traditional VoIP services, 28TEL service can be easily enrolled and operated. Unlike traditional Internet call services, 28TEL requires no installation of any hardware; unlike other cell phone VoIP services, 28TEL needs no downloading or installation of any handset client software; 28TEL can work on any mobile phone and no high-end handset is necessary. As long as you can dial through a local number, the connection to an overseas phone can be immediately enabled.

According Mr. Cho, people from 20-plus countries around the globe will become subscribers in only a few months and many businesses have expressed their intent to cooperate. Currently the company has been working with telecommunications operators in several countries.

28TEL offers very cheap direct global dialing, roaming free and free calls, which is a blessing for expats, for people with frequent calls to relatives and friends living abroad and for those planning overseas holiday trips. It will also benefit business travelers with broad international operations.

It is expected that cost-effective services and massive target markets will turn 28TEL into a major industry player. 28TEL is also now offering various promotions including a complimentary 100-minute talking time. For more information, visit 28TEL at http://www.28tel.com .

SOURCE Linkwell International (HK) Co., Ltd.

Credit: Linkwell International (HK) Co., Ltd.

Subject: Subscribers; Telecommunications industry

Location: United States--US

Publication title: PR Newswire; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 18, 2008

Dateline: HONG KONG

Publisher: PR Newswire Association LLC

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: New s

ProQuest document ID: 448592693

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/448592693?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright PR Newswire Association LLC Aug 18, 2008

Last updated: 2010-11-04

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 227 of 313

Dorival Caymmi, Singer of Brazil, Is Dead at 94

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Aug 19, 2008.

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Abstract:

Mr. Caymmi, a Brazilian singer and songwriter, helped lay the foundations of bossa nova.

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Dorival Caymmi, a Brazilian singer and songwriter who helped lay the foundations of bossa nova, wrote Carmen Miranda’s first hit and gave legendary voice to the romance of the beaches, fishing villages and bathing beauties of his native Bahia, died on Saturday at his home in Rio de Janeiro. He was 94.

The cause was multiple organ failure, according to accounts in the Brazilian news media. Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Brazil’s president, praised him as “one of the founders of Brazilian popular music.”

Mr. Caymmi’s career encompassed 60 years and about 20 albums, the last one released four years ago. But his influence transcended such measurable milestones and found enduring expression in the music of Brazilian greats like Antonio Carlos Jobim, Caetano Veloso and Gilberto Gil.

In an introduction to an anthology of Mr. Caymmi’s work in 1994, Jobim, the driving force behind bossa nova, a sophisticated jazz style derived from samba, wrote: “Dorival is a universal genius. He picked up the guitar and orchestrated the world.”

From the beginning of his career, Mr. Caymmi musically imbued his country with a rhythmic, romantic identity that went well with Brazil’s enticing geography and sultry, bikini-clad women. His first and immediately popular song, written at 16, “O Que É Que a Baiana Tem?” (“What Is It About Bahian Women?”), set the tone.

That song became the first hit of Carmen Miranda, whose well-displayed limbs, extravagant hats and exuberant voice made her a global sensation as the Brazilian Bombshell. In 1996, the publication News From Brazil said Mr. Caymmi taught Ms. Miranda to move her arms and hands with the music, which became her trademark.

Songs like “Marina” (1944) and “O Samba da Minha Terra” (1941) inspired the greats of bossa nova.

Mr. Caymmi’s easygoing style was compared by some to that of Bing Crosby, not least because of his similar velvety baritone.

The laid-back Andy Williams and Perry Como sang Mr. Caymmi’s “Das Rosas,” translated as “And Roses and Roses” by the American lyricist Ray Gilbert.

Romero Lubambo, a Brazilian guitarist who lives and plays in the United States, said in an telephone interview on Monday that it was impossible to overstate Mr. Caymmi’s public recognition in his own nation.

“Everybody who is alive in Brazil today has probably heard of him,” he said.

Writing in The New York Times in 2001, Ben Ratliff said Mr. Caymmi was perhaps second only to Jobim “in establishing a songbook of this century’s Brazilian identity.” A large part of this was evoking the life and dreams of working-class people, particularly fishermen.

Dorival Caymmi was born on April 30, 1914, in Salvador, the capital of Bahia state. He had several jobs, including that of journalist, and won a songwriting contest in 1936 as part of Salvador’s carnaval. Two years later he went to Rio de Janeiro to study law and perhaps look for a job as a journalist.

But he went into the music business, and firmly established himself with the song Ms. Miranda performed in the movie “Banana-da-Terra” (1939). He became a regular on Radio Nacional, and his fame grew. He recorded for five decades, both singing solo with his own guitar accompaniment and backed by bands and orchestras.

Mr. Caymmi married the singer Adelaide Tostes, who used the stage name Stella Maris. She survives him, along with their sons, Dori and Danilo, and their daughter, Nana, who are all also successful musicians.

News From Brazil reported that Mr. Caymmi’s nearly 70-year marriage survived some carousing on his part. It told of his wife’s finding him in a bar surrounded by women. She slammed a table, broke a glass, punched him, and left.

“He was a hard act to follow,” she said, “but it was worthwhile.”

Subject: World music; Musicians & conductors; Musical performances; Singers

Location: Brazil United States--US Rio de Janeiro Brazil New York

People: Miranda, Carmen Crosby, Bing Caymmi, Dorival

Company / organization: Name: New York Times Co; NAICS: 511110, 511120, 515112, 515120

Identifier / keyword: Music Gospel Music ROSAS Miranda, Carmen Brazil New York Times Martin, Douglas Deaths (Obituaries) Da Silva, Luiz Inacio Lula Carnival (Pre-Lenten) Bahia (Brazil) Love (Emotion) Jobim, Antonio Carlos Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) Veloso, Caetano United States Caymmi, Dorival Gil, Gilberto Salvador (Brazil) Crosby, Bing Adelaide (Australia) Williams, Andy Como, Perry Ratliff, Ben

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 19, 2008

Section: arts

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2221626851

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2221626851?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-09

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 228 of 313

PRESS RELEASE: Montreal "Passes Go" to Claim the Top Spot on Global Monopoly Game Board

Publication info: Dow Jones Institutional News ; New York [New York]19 Aug 2008.

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The world's most popular board game announces the 22 citieselected by fans worldwide to appear on new MONOPOLY Here & Now: The

World Edition game board

EAST LONGMEADOW, Mass.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--August 20, 2008--

After a worldwide vote, Montreal will represent the most expensive property on the new MONOPOLY Here & Now: The World Edition game board. Latvia's national capital, Riga, joins Montreal to round out the dark blue property group, the most prestigious property group in the popular game invented by Charles Darrow in 1935.

During a six-week period in early 2008, MONOPOLY fans from around the world voted for the global cities that they would like to see represented on the first-ever World edition game board. More than 5.6 million votes were cast for 70 world-class cities, which determined 20 of the 22 cities featured in the game. Then, the 20 cities with the most write-in votes faced off in a bonus vote and the two with the most votes, Taipei and Gdynia, earned the brown property spaces on the game board.

"We hope that fans of the world's most popular board game will enjoy buying, selling and trading real estate from around the globe in the new MONOPOLY game that they created with their votes," said Helen Martin, Vice President of Global Marketing for toy and game-maker Hasbro, Inc.'s (NYSE: HAS) MONOPOLY brand. "We are thrilled that the first-ever global game board includes an interesting mix of cities that showcases the dynamic cultures, sights and history of the planet."

The 22 cities that earned spots on the MONOPOLY Here & Now: The World Edition are as follows, listed in order of property groupings with the highest rent properties listed first:

-- Dark Blue:Montreal, Riga
-- Green:Cape Town, Belgrade, Paris
-- Yellow:Jerusalem, Hong Kong, Beijing
-- Red:London, New York, Sydney
-- Orange:Vancouver, Shanghai, Rome
-- Magenta:Toronto, Kyiv, Istanbul
-- Light Blue:Athens, Barcelona, Tokyo
-- Brown:Taipei, Gdynia

"The destinations chosen by the international voters offer a fascinating snapshot of which cities have the world's attention today," said Pauline Frommer, creator of the Pauline Frommer guidebooks. "Of course, there are the perennial favorites--Paris, London, Rome, Jerusalem, New York--but also some real surprises on the list, like Riga and Gdynia. I hope the game sparks players interest in geography -- and visiting all of these cities would certainly enhance your life!"

Along with the 22 property spaces featuring world-class global cities, the game will include updated Chance and Community Chest cards that highlight events and culturally relevant scenarios from countries around the world. Players may celebrate at Carnival in Rio de Janeiro, organize an international music festival or host a St. Patrick's Day festival in Dublin. Additionally, the tokens, houses and hotels reflect icons and styles from all seven continents.

The new MONOPOLY Here & Now: The World Edition will be available in stores around the world starting on August 26, 2008 in more than 50 countries and in 37 different languages. Please check www.monopoly.com for local availability and price.

Electronic Arts Inc. (NASDAQ: ERTS) has created digital versions of MONOPOLY which will be available for download on mobile phones or free online at www.Pogo.com starting September 3, 2008. It will also launch for console systems including Nintendo Wii(TM), Xbox 360(TM), PlayStation(R)2 and PLAYSTATION(R)3 in October 2008.

Hasbro, Inc. is a worldwide leader in children's and family leisure time products and services with a rich portfolio of brands and entertainment properties that provides some of the highest quality and most recognizable play and recreational experiences in the world. As a brand-driven, consumer-focused global company, Hasbro brings to market a range of toys, games and licensed products, from traditional to high-tech and digital, under such powerful brand names as TRANSFORMERS, PLAYSKOOL, TONKA, MILTON BRADLEY, PARKER BROTHERS, TIGER, CRANIUM and WIZARDS OF THE COAST. Come see how we inspire play through our brands at http://www.hasbro.com. (C) 2008 Hasbro, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

CONTACT: Hunter PR
Donetta Allen, 212-679-6600
dallen@hunterpr.com
or
Brazen PR
Peter Burling, +44 7974 323047
peter@brazenpr.com
or
Hasbro, Inc.
Pat Riso, 413-526-2307
priso@hasbro.com
SOURCE: Hasbro, Inc.
Copyright Business Wire 2008

Click here to go to Dow Jones NewsPlus, a web front page of today's most important business and market news, analysis and commentary: http://www.djnewsplus.com/al?rnd=ky07dFtKO5fb2xx1NjrarA%3D%3D. You can use this link on the day this article is published and the following day.

(END)

August 19, 2008 22:00 ET (02:00 GMT)

Subject: Computer & video games

Location: Beijing China Montreal Quebec Canada New York Latvia Jerusalem Israel Hong Kong Rio de Janeiro Brazil Istanbul Turkey

Company / organization: Name: Nasdaq Stock Market Inc; NAICS: 523210; Name: Hasbro Inc; NAICS: 339930; Name: Business Wire; NAICS: 519110; Name: Sony Computer Entertainment America Inc; NAICS: 511210; Name: New York Stock Exchange--NYSE; NAICS: 523210; Name: Electronic Arts Inc; NAICS: 511210

Publication title: Dow Jones Institutional News; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 19, 2008

Publisher: Dow Jones & Company Inc

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2244608826

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2244608826?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Dow Jones & Company Inc Aug 19, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-22

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 229 of 313

Morning briefs

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Florida Times Union ; Jacksonville, Fla. [Jacksonville, Fla]19 Aug 2008: D.1.

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NAI COMMERCIAL TO LEASE BARTRAM PARK SITE

Real estate company NAI Commercial Jacksonville has been awarded exclusive leasing of the proposed Rockefeller Group Corporate Center at Bartram Park, the firm announced Monday.

Rockefeller Group Corporate Center at Bartram Park includes development rights for as much as 1 million square feet, NAI Commercial Jacksonville said in a release. The office project will be near Bartram Park Boulevard, near Interstate 95 and Race Track Road, just north of the St. Johns County line.

NAI Commercial Jacksonville is a commercial real estate brokerage, acquisition and development firm. Rockefeller Group Development Corp. is a national owner, developer and manager of commercial real estate properties including corporate headquarters, multi-use urban complexes, distribution facilities, business parks and foreign trade zones.

Kevin Turner/ The Times-Union

SHOE CARNIVAL SIGNS UP FOR SHOE DONATIONS

Shoe Carnival, an Evansville, Ind.-based company with two retail locations in Jacksonville, announced Monday in a release that it will donate lightly used shoes to Soles4Souls, an international shoe charity, and give shoe donors a coupon for $5 toward a shoe purchase at the store.

Soles4Souls, dedicated to people worldwide in desperate need, will collect the shoes to give to needy people around the world. Shoe Carnival also will accept $2 donations on behalf of Soles4Souls to give some of the world's 300 million shoeless children their first pair of shoes.

Shoe Carnival has 300 locations nationwide, the release indicated. Soles4Souls, based in Nashville, Tenn., has distributed more than 3.3 million pairs of shoes to people in more than 60 countries, according to the release.

Jacksonville Jaguars owner Wayne Weaver is Chairman of Shoe Carnival's Board of Directors.

The shoe trade-in program and fundraiser runs Sept. 3 through Sept. 24.

Kevin Turner/ The Times-Union

INBEV TO PAY ANHEUSER CEO BUSCH $10.4 MILLION

August Busch IV, chief executive of Anheuser-Busch Cos. Inc. will be paid nearly $10.4 million after the brewer is sold to InBev SA and $120,000 a month to consult for the new company through the end of 2013.

Terms of the consulting deal are being negotiated, according to a filing made Friday with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Busch, a member of the St. Louis-based brewer's founding family, also will be eligible for an additional payment of $13.3 million on various change in control payments and benefits, the filing said.

Last month, the brewer of Bud Light and Budweiser announced it had agreed to be sold to InBev, the Belgium-based maker of Stella Artois, Beck's and Bass. The deal is worth $52 billion.

Associated Press

BRAZIL OIL RESERVES MORE THAN INITIALLY THOUGHT

A prominent geologist says Brazil's offshore oil reserves could hold as much as 55 billion barrels of crude.

Marcio Melo, president of the Brazilian Association of Petroleum Geologists, says studies suggest reserves in the ultra-deep pre-salt layer may contain several times more oil than initially estimated.

He says there also could be another 10 billion to 15 billion barrels at other locations along the coast.

Melo says the extent of reserves will be clear only after more extensive drilling.

Brazil recently announced several new finds off the coast of Rio de Janeiro state. It has estimated they could contain 8 billion barrels of recoverable light crude.

Associated Press

Publication title: Florida Times Union; Jacksonville, Fla.

First page: D.1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 19, 2008

Publisher: Florida Times Union

Place of publication: Jacksonville, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Jacksonville, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 07402325

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 414600123

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/414600123?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Florida Times Union Aug 19, 2008

Last updated: 2017-11-10

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 230 of 313

INVESCO PERPETUAL SELECT TRUST PLC - Final Results

Publication info: PR Newswire Europe Including UK Disclose ; New York (Aug 19, 2008).

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Invesco Perpetual Select Trust plc

Annual Financial Results Announcement of Final Results

For Year Ended 31 May 2008

FINANCIAL INFORMATION

UK Equity Share Portfolio

At At

31 May 31 May %

2008 2007 Change

Net asset value - total return -6.9

Share price - total return -2.8

Discount 3.0% 6.3%

FTSE All-Share Index - total return -7.1

Revenue return per share 3.2p 1.5p

Dividend 2.7p 1.5p

Global Equity Share Portfolio

At At

31 May 31 May %

2008 2007 Change

Net asset value - total return +2.6

Share price - total return +7.0

Discount 3.2% 7.3%

MSCI World Index (£) - total return -3.1

Revenue return per share 2.2p 0.9p

Dividend 2.15p 0.8p

Hedge Fund Share Portfolio

At At

31 May 31 May %

2008 2007 Change

Net asset value - total return +17.6

Share price - total return +19.1

Discount 4.4% 5.8%

Merrill Lynch 3 months LIBOR +5% pa -

total return +11.2

Managed Liquidity Share Portfolio

At At

31 May 31 May %

2008 2007 Change

Net asset value - total return +4.2

Share price - total return +5.6

Discount 2.0% 2.6%

Revenue return per share 4.4p 1.6p

Dividend 4.35p 1.0p

Chairman's Statement

This is my first report to shareholders since becoming Chairman. It covers the

first full year since the Company's launch as successor to Merrill Lynch Asset

Allocator plc. The structure that was put in place is now working well and

provides efficient access to a range of funds covering UK and global equities,

hedge funds and liquid assets. This efficiency is only of value if all the

funds perform well and the premium /discount relationships between them are

reasonably stable. In the last year I am pleased to report that all the share

classes performed well and the process of discount management was increasingly

controlled. It remains the Board's intention to control the discount of the

Managed Liquidity shares very tightly and to allow only slightly greater

discounts, if they develop at all, on the other classes. This is likely to mean

that our shares are not the cheapest in the investment trust market on a

discount basis, which we believe is compensated by the other attractions of the

structure. They do provide an attractive and flexible long-term investment for

taxpaying individuals.

Board

As foreshadowed in the interim statement, Peter Stormonth Darling retired from

the Board on 14 April 2008. He made a very substantial contribution to your

Company both through his depth of investment knowledge and his understanding of

the needs of our shareholders. I am very grateful for his support. Stephen

Zimmerman has indicated that he wishes to retire from the Board in September.

We shall be very sorry to see him go. The combination of probing intelligence

and concern for the shareholders' interests has been very useful. In order to

fill the vacancies left by these departures and that of Michael Mason earlier

this year, we have appointed Sir Michael Bunbury, Alan Clifton and David

Rosier. They all have substantial relevant experience which is set out in their

biographies in this report and they will, I am sure, make a very effective

contribution to the Company. They all fall for election at this year's Annual

General Meeting.

Performance

The last year was a very difficult period for the world economy and securities

markets. It encompassed the end of a period of rapid expansion and easy credit,

the beginning of a very unusual supply-side credit contraction through

de-gearing of the financial system, the early stages of a bear market in

equities and the onset of recessionary conditions in several OECD countries.

Against this background all four share classes have performed creditably, and

have beaten their benchmarks, where appropriate. In particular, the hedge fund

class did very well with a total return of 17.6%, benefiting from investments

that took advantage of the collapse in the US housing loan market and from

increased volatility in many areas. Both the equity classes beat their

benchmarks, though only marginally in the case of the UK class. This was

sufficient to provide a small positive return of 2.6% in the Global class,

though the UK class was unable to withstand the fall in the FTSE-All Share

Index and returned -6.9%. All classes benefited from a narrowing of their

discounts over the year as the discount control policies took effect following

the cancellation of the share premium account.

The Liquidity class is run on a very conservative basis and has been unaffected

by the turmoil in debt markets. Its dividend paying capacity has been helped by

the transfer of otherwise unusable tax capacity from the UK class and the use

of distributable reserves to compensate for the charging of some Hedge Fund

class expenses to revenue.

Outlook

In mid July, everything looked bleak. Since then there has been some

stabilisation and some mean-reversion in equity markets. However, they are

still experiencing a severe bear market which has been mitigated until recently

by the strength of resource stocks supported by very high raw material prices.

The best that can be said for equities is that they are now almost universally

unloved, that the bear market has already lasted a year and that many shares

have fallen to levels that do look cheap even on pessimistic assumptions about

profits. In the short run these strengths may not be enough to withstand the

arrival of recession, probably in the UK and the US, where consumers are under

particularly severe stress, but also probably in a number of other countries.

Inflation continues to be a problem, led by the major emerging countries where

negative real interest rates, adopted for currency management, have produced

tremendous capacity pressures both domestically and internationally. Policy in

developing economies needs to change, particularly on currency. It is not clear

whether this will happen at all quickly and indeed, if it were to, how well the

developed world would withstand the weakening of demand growth implicit in such

a policy change even if the longer term inflation effects were benign. In the

meantime the interlinked problems of global warming and the price and security

of supply of energy and food still lack consistent policy attention though

price changes have been helpful.

This background should provide plenty of opportunity for alert hedge fund

managers. It is clearly more difficult for long-only equity managers. The

value-oriented and long-term approach of our managers is both a comfort in this

environment and a source of good ideas which we believe will lead to

outperformance.

Dividend Policy

The ability to convert shares of one class into another could lead to dilution

or enhancement of revenue reserves per share for each of the share classes,

depending on whether there are net conversions respectively into or out of that

class. In order to minimise this effect the Directors intend to distribute

substantially all net revenues earned for each class between conversion dates.

Accordingly dividends on the UK Equity, Global Equity and Managed Liquidity

Shares will vary from year to year depending on net portfolio income. Little or

no net income is expected from the assets underlying the Hedge Fund Shares and

no dividends are expected to be paid on this class.

Share Class Switching

The Company enables shareholders to tailor their asset allocation to reflect

their view of prevailing market conditions. Shareholders have the opportunity

to switch between share classes without giving rise to a disposal for UK

capital gains tax purposes, every six months. Further information can be found

in the Shareholder Information of the Annual Financial Report.

Share Buy Backs

During the year to 31 May 2008, the Company purchased and placed in treasury

1,722,000 UK Equity Shares, 2,512,000 Global Equity Shares, 34,000 Hedge Fund

Shares and 1,126,500 Managed Liquidity Shares.

Since the year end a further 597,500 UK Equity Shares, 328,500 Global Equity

Shares, 144,000 Hedge Fund Shares and 753,000 Managed Liquidity shares were

purchased and placed in treasury as share price discounts continue to drift.

The Board intends to use the Company's buy back authorities when this will

benefit existing shareholders as a whole, and will ask shareholders to renew

the authorities each year.

Hedge Fund - Share Issuance and Minor Change of Investment Objective

During the year the Hedge Fund Share Portfolio issued 1,032,100 shares at a

price of 126p, representing a premium over the share price of 1%.

In addition, the Portfolio's investment objective was slightly altered so that

the required return on the Fauchier Managed Funds was lowered from LIBOR plus

6% to LIBOR plus 5% (over rolling 5-year periods). This was based on the view

that, were the Hedge Fund Portfolio to increase in size, it would be necessary

to increase the number of funds in the Portfolio which could affect returns.

Corporate Governance

The Board remains committed to maintaining the highest standards of Corporate

Governance and is accountable to you as shareholders for the governance of the

Company's affairs.

The Directors believe that, during the year to 31 May 2008, they have complied

with the provisions of the AIC Code of Corporate Governance as endorsed by the

Financial Reporting Council, save in respect of matters discussed in the

Corporate Governance statement contained in the Annual Financial Report.

Annual General Meeting (`AGM')

At the AGM there are five items of Special Business to be proposed:-

Share Issuance

First, your Directors are asking for the authority to issue up to £1,000,000 in

UK Equity Shares, £1,000,000 in Global Equity Shares, £1,000,000 in Hedge Fund

Shares and £1,000,000 in Managed Liquidity Shares. This will allow Directors to

issue shares within the prescribed limits should any favourable opportunities

arise to the advantage of shareholders. The powers authorised will not be

exercised at a price below NAV of the relevant share so that the interests of

existing shareholders are not diluted. This authority will expire at the AGM in

2009.

Secondly, your Directors are also asking for the usual authority to issue new

shares in each class pursuant to a rights issue or otherwise than in accordance

with a rights issue of up to an aggregate nominal amount of £45,288 in UK

Equity Shares, £35,767 in Global Equity Share, £22,539 in Hedge Fund Shares and

£21,306 in Managed Liquidity Share (10% of the issued share capital of each

share class) dis-applying pre-emption rights. This will allow shares to be

issued to new shareholders without having to be offered to existing

shareholders first, thus broadening the shareholder base of the Company. This

authority will expire at the AGM in 2009.

Share Buy Backs

Thirdly, your Directors are seeking to renew the authority to buy back up to

6,788,777 UK Equity Shares, 5,361,563 Global Equity Share, 3,378,607 Hedge Fund

Shares and 3,193,856 Managed Liquidity Shares (14.99% of the issued share

capital of each share class) subject to the restrictions referred to in the

notice of the AGM. This authority will expire at the AGM in 2009. Your

Directors are proposing that share bought back by the Company either be

cancelled or, alternatively, be held as treasury shares with a view to their

resale, if appropriate, or later cancellation. The holding of treasury shares

is restricted to 10% of the Company's issued share capital of each share class

and any resale of them will only take place on terms that are in the best

interests of shareholders as a whole.

Investment Policy

Fourthly, pursuant to the changes to the UKLA Listing Rules, listed investment

companies are now subject to additional requirements in respect of their

published investment policies. Your Directors are therefore seeking the formal

adoption of the Investment Policy for the Company. It is not expected, or

intended, that this will give rise to changes in the way the Company's assets

are managed.

The Report of the Directors sets out the proposed Investment Policy for the

Company in the Annual Financial Report.

Amendments to the Articles of Association

Finally, your Directors are seeking the approval of a number of amendments to

the existing Articles of Association of the Company, primarily to reflect the

provisions of the Companies Act 2006 that came into force in October 2007 and

April 2008, and are coming into force in October 2008. In view of the number of

changes, it is proposed that new Articles of Association be adopted. An

explanation of the main changes between the proposed and existing Articles of

Association is set out in the Notice of the AGM contained in the Annual

Financial Report.

The current Articles of Association require that class consent is obtained

prior to the AGM to make any changes to the Articles of Association. Therefore,

four class meetings will be held prior to the AGM and the Notices of Separate

General Meetings are set out in the Annual Financial Report.

The remaining provisions of the Companies Act 2006 are expected to come into

force in October 2009. In addition, various regulations that relate to certain

of these provisions have yet to be finalised. Consequently, it will be

necessary for the Company to undertake a further review of its Articles of

Association in due course in order to reflect these other provisions. It is

anticipated that this will take place in 2009.

Shareholders should note that the terms of the new Articles of Association with

all the proposed changes highlighted are available for inspection at 30

Finsbury Square, London, EC2A 1AG from 14 August 2008 until the close of the

AGM on 23 September 2008.

Your Directors have carefully considered all the resolutions proposed in the

Notice of the AGM and, in their opinion, consider them all to be in the best

interests of shareholders as a whole. Your Directors therefore recommend that

shareholders vote in favour of each resolution. The Separate General Meetings

of the Company will be held at the offices of Invesco Asset Management Limited

on 23 September 2008 at 10.45am followed by the AGM at 11.00am. I do hope that

as many shareholders as possible will attend. This will be an opportunity not

only to meet the Directors but also to hear the views of the Portfolio Managers

with the day-to-day responsibility for managing the Company's portfolios.

Patrick Gifford

Chairman

18 August 2008

UK Equity Share Portfolio Manager's Report

Market Review

The UK equity market experienced considerable volatility during the 12 months

to 31 May 2008, with the FTSE All-Share Index declining by 7.1% (total return).

Notable events over the period included the rise in the FTSE 100 Index to over

6700 (6706 on 29 October 2007) for the first time since August 2000, the

appreciation of sterling against a weakening US dollar to over US$2/£1 for the

first time since 1992, and the steady rise in the price of oil to a peak of

US$132.37 per barrel (Brent Crude) on 26 May 2008. However, the event which had

the most impact on the equity-market environment was the disruption in credit

and money markets, which began in the summer of 2007. The disruption emanated

from a collapse in the US subprime (high-risk home loans) mortgage sector,

which forced investors to reassess their appetite for risk. In these

circumstances the UK stockmarket fell sharply as investors sold riskier assets

and fled to the relative safe haven of large-cap defensive companies, such as

tobacco and food producers, while consumer-facing areas such as retailers and

housebuilders declined. In January 2008 as the credit crisis continued to

unfold and doubts over the durability of the UK economy grew, the stockmarket

sold-off sharply again, but this time with little differentiation between

companies and sectors. Equities in general were offering very few safe havens.

There was another sell-off in March 2008 on concern over writedowns at

financials companies, followed by a strong rally in April 2008 following news

of the bail out of Bear Stearns by JPMorgan Chase. However, further bouts of

weakness in May ensured that the UK equity market ended the review period in

negative territory.

Northern Rock dominated the headlines in September 2007 following a `run on the

bank' on news that it had approached the Bank of England for emergency funding.

Northern Rock's heavy reliance on interbank lending meant that it suffered

severe liquidity problems when banks became reluctant to lend to each other.

The mortgage bank was eventually nationalised.

In the economy, UK interest rates started the period at 5.5%. They were

initially raised to 5.75% in August 2007 to stem consumption growth, but were

subsequently lowered by 25 basis points on three occasions in response to

weakening economic data, to end the period at 5.0%. The reductions took place

despite a backdrop of a continuing build up of inflationary pressures,

resulting from high and rising commodity and food prices.

Portfolio Strategy & Review

The UK Equity Portfolio's net asset value, including reinvested dividends, fell

by 6.9% during the 12 months to the end of May 2008, compared to a fall of 7.1%

from the FTSE All Share Index (total return).

In the first half of the review period, the Company recorded resilient

performance, benefiting from the bias towards large-cap companies which

characterised the investment environment at the time. However, as the backdrop

became more challenging in the second half of the period, flight-to-quality

transformed into a flight-to-liquidity and safety, and in these circumstances

investors saw large-cap defensive stocks as a source of liquidity and the

ensuing sell-off restricted the UK Equity Portfolio's returns.

In terms of activity, several new holdings were started in the UK Equity

Portfolio over the review period. These included oil & gas producer BG, which

was purchased on valuation grounds, and travel company First Choice, which was

subsequently renamed TUI Travel after it merged with the tourism division of

TUI AG. Other new purchases included Provident Financial and media company

Informa. Provident Financial, which specialises in lending to customers with

poor credit histories, has a strong market position and is trading well but we

feel that these attributes are yet to be fully reflected in its share price.

Informa's shares had been quite weak due to concerns over the company's balance

sheet. However, in our view, its current valuation looks attractive given the

high level of recurring revenues in the business.

In terms of disposals, we sold food producer Associated British Foods and media

company Reed Elsevier following a period of resilient performance. We also sold

chemicals company ICI, medical-equipment maker Gyrus and computer services

company Xansa after receiving bids.

Outlook

The UK is undoubtedly entering a period of economic slowdown as the forces of

growth, namely government and consumer spending, make their absence felt in the

economy. It is likely that UK economic growth will remain subdued for the

remainder of 2008 and well into 2009.

Against this backdrop, corporate profitability will come under pressure,

particularly in cyclical areas of the market and sectors which are exposed to

the consumer slowdown. Despite concerns over the prospects for the UK economy,

and the sharp falls in the UK equity market witnessed during the review period,

we believe that there are some areas of the market where valuations are very

attractive and investment opportunities are interesting. These typically fall

within the more defensive parts of the market, such as the tobacco,

telecommunications, pharmaceuticals and energy sectors, which all feature

prominently in the UK Equity Portfolio. We have built up a meaningful exposure

to the so-called mega-cap area of the market, which represent the very largest

companies of the FTSE 100 Index. These companies currently offer the greatest

opportunity because they are typically geographically diversified, less

dependent on the UK economy to drive earnings, they offer defensive earnings

and cash flows and have very strong balance sheets. By focusing on these

characteristics, we remain positive on the outlook for the UK Equity Portfolio,

particularly over the long term.

Mark Barnett

Portfolio Manager

18 August 2008

Global Equity Share Portfolio Manager's Report

Market and Economic Review

US economic and credit problems spread out over the 12 months under review,

especially affecting the financial sector, which was the worst-performing

sector globally over the period. Investments related to US subprime mortgages,

which were held by banks and financial institutions worldwide, were written

down in value. They were negatively impacted by a severe recession in the US

housing market, due to oversupply compounded by lax lending standards

precipitating a surge in mortgage defaults as conditions deteriorated. Such

were the size of losses incurred by financial institutions, that the risk of

counterparty default rose sharply and banks either refused to lend to each

other or did so at punitive rates. This led to a `credit crunch' which, either

directly or indirectly, led to the demise of Bear Stearns and Northern Rock as

independent entities.

Economic growth in developed countries slowed noticeably, and the International

Monetary Fund cut its forecast of global economic growth for 2008 back to 3.7%,

after predicting it to be as high as 5.2% as recently as July 2007. The central

banks of the US and the UK cut interest rates in order to mitigate the effects

of the slowdown, as well as introducing a raft of other stimulatory measures.

Emerging market economies in Asia, emerging Europe and Latin America weathered

the storm well, posting very strong gains in stockmarket terms, but their

economies have recently encountered inflationary problems. Commodity prices

soared over the period under review, with the price of oil doubling to over

US$130 a barrel. Along with higher oil prices, metals and agricultural produce

prices are also adding to inflation, raising concerns over food shortages and

economic protectionism. Unsurprisingly in this environment, developed market

and smaller companies' indices posted negative returns.

Portfolio strategy and review

Over the review period, the net assets of the Global Equity Portfolio rose by

2.6%, while the MSCI World index, measured in sterling (total return), fell by

3.1%. Over the same period the Global Equity Portfolio's share price increased

by 7.0%, to 110p.

The investment strategy of the Global Equity Portfolio is stock driven, using a

pragmatic investment approach, based on fundamental, valuation-driven analysis.

We are focused on generating absolute returns and take a long-term investment

view. As such, all holdings in the Global Equity Portfolio reflect conviction

in each company and its prospects as an investment. Our valuation focus means

that we will tend to reduce exposure to companies when we feel they are

becoming fully valued, and reinvest in names where we see more upside. This may

often give the portfolio a contrarian stance as we find value in non-consensus

names.

Over the year, we increased our regional exposure to emerging Europe and Latin

America and trimmed our exposure to the US and UK. Given the nature of the

Global Equity Portfolio, which essentially involves selected global best ideas

within a risk-controlled portfolio, performance has been primarily driven by

stock-specific contributions, though exposure to a range of reasonably valued

names in faster growing emerging economies has proved beneficial at a broader

level. The best investment performance on a relative basis came from our

holdings in Brazil, Russia and Hong Kong, where our overweight positions

combined with good individual stock returns benefited the overall Global Equity

Portfolio. In addition, our relatively low exposure to the US and Japan has

also been beneficial, and our holdings within these countries also produced

good comparative returns. Spain was also a notable contributor to performance,

helped by a strong rally in the share price of Telefonica, the country's

premier telecommunications company. Areas proving detrimental to performance

included Australia, primarily due to one poorly performing holding, the UK,

mainly due to being overweight, Canada, due to being underweight, and Malaysia,

Singapore and the Philippines.

In terms of individual stocks, the Global Equity Portfolio's best investment

has been in Petrobras, the Brazilian oil major which offers a combination of

attractive elements that many competitors lack in sufficient quantities, namely

access to resources and the potential for new discoveries, a sustainable

reserve base and production growth. Other significant performance contributions

have come from names like British Energy, now the subject of a bid, Jardine

Matheson which has given us quality exposure to Asian growth across a number of

sectors at a valuation which we feel does not reflect its potential, and

Norilsk Nickel which has benefited from strong metals prices while trading at a

discount to its global peers. China Mobile has also been a strong performer for

the Global Equity Portfolio, as Chinese handset sales continue to grow and

improvements in technology look set to boost sales even further. Proving

detrimental were holdings in Yell Group, which issued profit warnings related

to its US exposure, British Airways, negatively impacted by both higher fuel

costs and additional loss provisions due to problems incurred when launching

operations from terminal five at Heathrow, Macquarie Korea Infrastructure and

BT Group.

Our largest new stock additions during the review period were in Russian energy

giant Gazprom, as well as the aforementioned Norilsk Nickel. The largest

complete sales were of Telefonica where we took profits and in General Electric

and American International Group (AIG).

Outlook

The global economic backdrop is undoubtedly much tougher than the environment

enjoyed in recent years. Larger economies have entered a slower growth phase as

tighter credit impacts on housing and consumption in major developed markets.

Demand for oil, metals, cereal crops and other commodities remains firm as

emerging markets continue to grow. This is spilling over into rising

inflationary pressures which are, in turn, squeezing corporate margins and

earnings in a number of industries. Consumer confidence, especially in

developed markets, has fallen as the purchasing power of household income

deteriorates. In turn, this could negatively affect the outlook of

export-orientated emerging economies.

Against this somewhat sober outlook, however, we can see a number of positives.

Firstly, equity markets have already discounted a lot of the negative newsflow,

as reflected in the sharp falls from October last year. Further, outside of the

sectors most obviously affected by the credit crunch, many corporates remain

well financed and in good shape in comparison to previous periods of economic

slowdown, and valuations are reasonable in many areas. Above all, in this lower

growth environment, we feel that stock picking will become increasingly

important as a source of investment return. As this is the prime focus of the

Global Equity Portfolio, we are confident of being able to continue to add

value for the Company, especially over the longer term.

Bob Yerbury

Portfolio Manager

18 August 2008

Hedge Fund Share Portfolio Manager's Report

Performance

For the year to 31 May 2008 Fauchier Allocator Funds I and II (collectively the

`FAF Funds') had a positive return of 18.45%, net of fees. Since the FAF Funds

were established on 1 November 2003, they have achieved an average annual

compound return of 11.7%, equivalent to approximately 6.6% over three month

Sterling LIBOR. Over the same period the FAF Funds' annualised volatility has

been some 5.1%, while their `beta' - namely the extent to which their returns

are driven by a particular market or index - to the FTSE All Share Index has

been approximately 0.2 and to the Citigroup UK Gilt Index, zero, both of which

are very low.

Good performance of some 12% was achieved in the first half of the year. Market

conditions in the second six months, by contrast, were turbulent, with

significantly increased levels of volatility. Notwithstanding this, the FAF

Funds achieved a net return of 5.3% during the second half year.

The table below gives details of the FAF Funds' monthly performance since 1

November 2003:

Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec YTD

% % % % % % % % % % % % %

2008 -1.25 3.10 -3.42 1.33 3.92 3.53

2007 1.32 2.48 1.17 1.65 1.73 1.88 3.88 -0.53 1.88 5.08 -0.16 1.68 24.28

2006 2.46 -0.10 1.01 1.92 -1.09 -0.32 0.52 0.40 -0.79 0.57 1.26 1.50 7.53

2005 0.39 1.87 -0.53 -1.13 -0.41 1.06 1.71 1.74 2.13 -1.50 0.76 2.18 8.48

2004 1.41 1.15 1.19 -0.48 -1.21 0.29 0.08 0.57 0.64 0.80 2.04 1.07 7.79

2003 0.52 2.02 2.55

The Portfolio

It is the policy of the FAF Funds to invest in a diversified portfolio of hedge

funds. As at 31 May 2008 the two funds had combined holdings in some 20 hedge

funds across nine different strategies, four fewer than at the same time in

2007. Five funds were purchased and nine sold.

The proportion of Absolute Value funds included in the FAF Funds' portfolio was

approximately 72% as at 31 May 2008 compared with 70% a year earlier.

Market Review

The year under review has been tumultuous for markets. Global equities - as

measured by the MSCI World Index - were down by some 3%, although there was

considerable sector and regional variation. In the US the S&P 500 was down by

7% and the Russell 2000 by 19%, the Japanese Topix fell by 19.8% while MSCI

Asia (ex-Japan) index rose 8%. Government bonds, as measured by the Citibank

World Government Bond Index (5 year +), were up by about 4%. Commodities were

up sharply with the Brent Crude Index increasing about 90%; in foreign exchange

markets the US dollar fell against both the euro and Japanese yen, by some 15%

and 12% respectively.

Equity markets were relatively benign in June and July as investors

increasingly focussed on bond markets. Data available at the time suggested

that the world economy was in good health and the likelihood that interest

rates would be cut later in 2007 receded. Meanwhile, there were indications

that the Chinese central bank had moderated its appetite for longer-dated US

Treasuries and was considering diversifying its reserves into bonds in other

currencies. As a result, yields on government bonds increased sharply with

10-year Treasuries reaching their highest levels for five years.

These changes were the forerunner of problems which have affected credit

markets in subsequent months. Inter-bank liquidity began to `dry up' as worries

that distress in the US subprime market might spread to broader credit markets

and beyond. The level of concern was exacerbated following the news in early

August that two hedge funds managed by Bear Stearns, which had geared exposures

to mortgage-backed securities through Collateralised Debt Obligations (CDOs),

had collapsed. Equities fell worldwide, with specific securities particularly

badly hit as a result of the forced de-leveraging by certain quantitative hedge

funds. Central banks stepped in to provide liquidity to the banking sector and

the US Federal Reserve cut interest rates, which had the short term effect of

causing equity markets worldwide to rally.

The last quarter of calendar year 2007 was again challenging for markets. While

October 2007 was benign and December volatile, November saw wholesale selling

that threatened to turn into outright panic at one point. The pressure on

banking and credit markets continued with the increasing realisation that

mortgage backed bonds and securities linked to them (like CDOs) were becoming

increasingly unmarketable.

In the first quarter of calendar 2008 the turmoil in credit continued to

dominate, with equities in the financial sector coming under severe pressure.

This culminated in March with the unprecedented bail-out of Bear Stearns. The

US Federal Reserve made significant cuts in interest rates and, together with

other central banks, took steps to inject further liquidity into the system

which by this point had effectively `seized up'. The prices of government bonds

firmed and yield curves steepened. Equity market volatility increased as a

result of further widespread deleveraging following short lived rallies. At the

same time, the US dollar continued its decline against the euro and the

Japanese yen. Commodities, although volatile, were strong with oil, gold and

certain soft commodities reaching all time highs. Conditions returned to

greater stability in April and May 2008, with fundamentals appearing to drive

markets once again.

The Portfolio

During the year the FAF Funds' investment in two funds in the Short Bias

strategy was replaced with an investment in Fauchier Partners' Counterpoint

Fund. This is an in-house fund (which does not charge fees to the FAF Funds)

which allocates only to Short Bias managers and is designed to provide a

greater spread of exposure. As at 31 May 2008 this new fund had investments in

five different Short Bias funds. It represented 3.9% of the FAF Funds' Net

Asset Value at 31 May 2008, compared with a 3.1% allocation to Short Bias on

the same date in 2007.

All strategies included in the portfolio made positive contributions to the FAF

Funds' performance during the year to 31 May 2008 with the exception of

Multiple Strategy.

The two best performing strategies were Event Driven and Specialist Credit

which contributed 6.1% and 5.5% respectively to the FAF Funds' gross

performance over the year. Two managers (one in each strategy) stood out in

terms of performance respectively contributing 6.0% and 5.6% to the year's

result. Among other things, these managers profited from significant short

positions taken in 2006 and early in 2007 in anticipation of difficulties in

the subprime mortgage market in the United States. As these positions produced

results, the FAF Funds took profits from its holdings in order to ensure that

individual funds did not become over-weight in the context of the portfolio.

The Equity Hedged area (Equity Long Bias, Equity Hedged High Volatility and

Equity Hedged Low Volatility) also did well contributing some 3.8% to

performance. This was a result of good stock picking and the application of

disciplined risk management by managers as markets became more volatile. As

market volatility increased, the FAF Funds' Short Bias and Volatility Trading

managers - the two strategies included in the portfolio for insurance purposes

- importantly produced increasingly uncorrelated results. Short Bias and

Volatility Trading funds together contributed some 0.8% to performance for the

year to 31 May 2008.

Macro funds, which at 31 May 2008 comprised some 22% of the portfolio, had

disappointing performance overall, contributing only 1.4%. This said, one Macro

fund made a very valuable contribution of just over 2% over the year. We added

to our group of Specialist Credit managers, in each case investing in funds

which engage in significant hedging of their positions. The FAF Funds' one

Fixed Income fund made a positive contribution of approximately 0.3% primarily

through investments in the short end of Government bond yield curves.

Outlook

At the time of writing, markets continue to be very nervous as inflation

concerns rise to the fore. We believe that this trend will continue. Early

indications of performance for the current quarter are positive and the

portfolio continues to protect capital on the downside. Notwithstanding all the

current uncertainties we believe that conditions for the FAF funds are

positive, although we cannot discount the possibility of increased volatility

of returns.

Fauchier Partners LLP

Portfolio Manager

18 August 2008

Managed Liquidity Share Portfolio Manager's Report

Market and Economic Review

Interbank lending rates, as represented by the three-month sterling London

Interbank Offered Rate (`LIBOR'), started the period at 5.81%, only slightly

above the 5.5% base rate. Although the base rate was increased to 5.75% on 5

July, at the time markets still expected another hike to 6%. Much subsequently

changed as the interbank rate surged to 6.90% in September. Problems at

Northern Rock, along with wider global credit concerns, sparked unease in

London's interbank market and caused banks and other financial institutions to

become reluctant to lend to each other. Although the interbank rate

subsequently dropped back to 6.24% by early October, the rate moved higher once

more to end November at 6.61%, as banks began to hoard cash ahead of the year

end. This prompted the Bank of England (`BoE') to announce that it would offer

banks emergency funds for five weeks, rather than the usual one-week period, in

an effort to `alleviate concerns that money market conditions will be

particularly tight over the year end'. Further support came from a 0.25% cut in

the base rate on 5 December.

Although the BoE cut the base rate by 0.25% on two further occasions in

February and April, to leave rates at 5%, interbank lending rates continued to

rise. The BoE announced a Special Liquidity Scheme in April in an attempt to

stimulate interbank lending. The scheme allows banks to swap a range of high

quality but illiquid assets, including mortgage-backed securities, for UK Gilts

which they can then use as collateral to raise cash. Although the three-month

sterling LIBOR rate ended the period at 5.87%, a similar level to the start,

with base rates 0.5% lower, the gap between the two rates increased

significantly over the period.

Portfolio Strategy and Review

Our strategy has remained broadly unchanged for some time. We have maintained

holdings in floating-rate notes where yields are reset every three months to

reflect changes in LIBOR, the rate at which the largest banks lend money to one

another. These holdings helped to increase the Managed Liquidity Portfolio's

return in times when interbank interest rates have been higher. The Managed

Liquidity Portfolio is exposed to a mixture of deposits, very short term gilts

and high rated corporate bonds and is not exposed to any structured products of

US housing assets.

Outlook

At the end of the period, the future direction of UK interest rates initially

seemed unclear, with the BoE facing a difficult balancing act trying to curb

inflation without further dampening an economy already dented by slowing

growth. Since then though, news that there was a three-way split at the July

Monetary Policy Committee meeting further clouded the outlook. However, despite

annual CPI inflation increasing to 4.4% for July, the BoE's August Inflation

Report painted a gloomy assessment of the UK economy, reducing the chance of an

increase in UK interest rates. Although the near-term forecast for CPI is now

expected to peak at around 5%, the MPC appears to be increasingly concerned

about the outlook for the economy, rather than on inflation. The medium-term

profile for inflation has been revised down quite sharply, with it now expected

to undershoot its 2% target at the two-year forecast horizon and then head

clearly below its target in year three. As a result, market interest-rate

expectations have fallen sharply, with a series of rate cuts now priced in over

the next twelve months.

Paul Read and Paul Causer

Portfolio Managers

18 August 2008

UK Equity Share Portfolio - List of Investments

at 31 May 2008

Ordinary shares listed in the UK unless stated otherwise

Market

Value % of

Company Activity £'000 Portfolio

Royal Dutch Shell - B Energy 2,221

Shares

- A Shares 623

2,844 5.8

British American Tobacco 2,446 5.0

Tobacco

BP Energy 2,391 4.8

British Energy Utilities 2,183 4.4

Reynolds American - Tobacco 2,074 4.2

US Stock

Imperial Tobacco Tobacco 2,063 4.2

BG Energy 2,063 4.2

GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals/

Biotechnology/

Life Sciences 2,052 4.2

BT Energy 1,817 3.7

Vodafone Telecommunication Services 1,750 3.5

Drax Utilities 1,729 3.5

National Grid Utilities 1,713 3.5

Tesco Food & Staples Retailing 1,617 3.3

AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals/

Biotechnology/

Life Sciences 1,284 2.6

Rolls Royce - Ords Capital Goods 1,111

- B Shares 23

1,134 2.3

Capita Commercial Services & 1,097 2.2

Supplies

Scottish & Southern Utilities 1,080 2.2

Energy

TUI Travel Consumer Services 1,040 2.1

BAE Systems Capital Goods 1,011 2.1

Rexam Materials 953 1.9

Pennon Utilities 953 1.9

Informa Media 929 1.9

British Airways Transportation 854 1.7

Tate & Lyle Food Beverage & Tobacco 827 1.7

Sage Software & Services 803 1.6

Hiscox Insurance 801 1.6

Balfour Beatty Capital Goods 749 1.5

Bunzl Capital Goods 735 1.5

Climate Exchange Diversified Financials 727 1.5

Provident Financial Diversified Financials 721 1.5

UK Coal Materials 678 1.4

Just Retirement Insurance 651 1.3

Marks & Spencer Retailing 590 1.2

Carnival Consumer Services 543 1.1

Impax Environmental Diversified Financials 535 1.1

Markets

Protherics Pharmaceuticals/

Biotechnology/

Life Sciences 467 0.9

Landkom International Food Beverage & Tobacco 448 0.9

Centrica Utilities 432 0.9

Homeserve Insurance 419 0.8

ARM Semiconductors Equipment 368 0.7

ITV Media 357 0.7

A J Bell (unquoted) Diversified Financials 344 0.7

Helphire Diversified Financials 288 0.6

Imperial Tobacco Tobacco 278 0.6

Vectura Pharmaceuticals/

Biotechnology/

Life Sciences 240 0.5

Xcounter - US Stock Health Care Equipment/ 93 0.2

Services

Renovo Pharmaceuticals/

Biotechnology/

Life Sciences 89 0.2

XL Techgroup - US Diversified Financials 46 0.1

Stock

49,306 100.0

Global Equity Share Portfolio - List of Investments

at 31 May 2008

Ordinary shares unless stated

Market

Value % of

Company Activity Country £'000 Portfolio

Petróleo Energy Brazil 1,772 4.4

Brasileiro

British Energy Utilities United Kingdom 1,509 3.7

BP Oil & Gas Producers United Kingdom 1,423 3.6

GlaxoSmithKline Pharmaceuticals/

Biotechnology/

Life Sciences United Kingdom 1,350 3.3

Gazprom Oil & Gas Producers Russia 1,189 3.0

Norilsk Nickel Materials Russia 1,168 2.9

Novartis Pharmaceuticals/

Biotechnology/

Life Sciences Switzerland 1,121 2.8

Unibanco Banks Brazil 1,078 2.7

Jardine Matheson Diversified Bermuda 1,054 2.6

Financials

UPM-Kymmene Materials Finland 1,010 2.5

National Grid Utilities United Kingdom 991 2.5

United Phosphorus Materials India 957 2.4

Vodafone Telecommunication United Kingdom 932 2.3

Services

Imperial Tobacco Food Beverage & United Kingdom 930 2.3

Tobacco

Telekom Austria Telecommunication Austria 905 2.2

Services

Total Energy France 900 2.2

Obrascon Huarte Capital Goods Spain 865 2.1

Lain

ING Diversified Netherlands 847 2.1

Financials

Telecom Egypt Telecommunication Egypt 838 2.1

Services

Endesa Utilities Spain 834 2.1

Wal-Mart Stores Food & Staples United States 818 2.0

Retailing

Spirit Aerosystems Capital Goods United States 787 2.0

Banco De Oro Banks Philippines 779 1.9

Unibank

Reed Elsevier Media Netherlands 775 1.9

Datacraft Asia Technology Hardware/ Singapore 770 1.9

Equipment

BT Telecommunication United Kingdom 757 1.9

Services

Hellenic

Telecommunications

Organisation Telecommunication Greece 746 1.9

Services

Nissan Motor Automobiles and Japan 739 1.8

Components

Rolls Royce - Ord Capital Goods United Kingdom 696

Rolls Royce - B 12

Shares

708 1.7

Murata Technology Hardware/ Japan 701 1.7

Manufacturing Equipment

Tokyo Electron Semiconductors & Japan 698 1.7

Semiconductor

Equipment

Banco Bilbao Banks Spain 643 1.6

Vizcaya

Argentaria

Macquarie Korea Transportation Korea 635 1.6

Infrastructure

DBS Banks Singapore 629 1.6

Kroger Food & Staples United States 609 1.5

Retailing

Penney (JC) Retailing United States 609 1.5

Zimmer Health Care United States 587 1.5

Equipment & Services

China Mobile Telecommunication Hong Kong 584 1.4

Services

Lawson Food & Staples Japan 558 1.4

Retailing

Mediatek Semiconductors &

Semiconductor

Equipment Taiwan 548 1.4

America Movil Telecommunication Mexico 527 1.3

Services

Market

Value % of

Company Activity Country £'000 Portfolio

NTT DoCoMo Telecommunication Japan 493 1.2

Services

Nippon Building Real Estate Japan 483 1.2

HKR International Real Estate Cayman Islands 481 1.2

Cambridge Real Estate Singapore 471 1.2

Industrial Trust

British Airways Transportation United Kingdom 457 1.1

Texas Instruments Semiconductors & United States 422 1.0

Semiconductor

Equipment

Sterling Energy Energy United Kingdom 406 1.0

News Corporation Media United States 389 1.0

Amvig Media China 384 1.0

Inpar Real Estate Brazil 323 0.8

Imperial Tobacco Food Beverage & United Kingdom 115 0.3

Tobacco

40,304 100.0

Hedge Fund Share Portfolio - List of Investments

Market

Value % of

Strategy Fund Name £'000 Portfolio

Macro Clarium Capital 1,457 5.3

Explorer Global 1,399 5.1

Wexford Offshore Spectrum 1,398 5.1

Drawbridge Global Macro 1,276 4.7

Drawbridge Global Alpha Fund 480 1.8

V

Equity Long Bias Criterion Horizons Offshore 1,466 5.4

Lansdowne UK Equity 1,422 5.2

Equity Hedged High CCM Small Cap Value 1,611 5.9

Volatility

Elm Ridge Value Partners 1,501 5.5

Offshore

Indus Pacific Smaller 1,403 5.1

Companies

Bay Resource Partners 1,378 5.0

Offshore

Equity Hedged Low Daedalus Offshore 1,178 4.3

Volatility

Short Bias Fauchier Partners 1,059 3.9

CounterPoint

Specialist Credit Harbinger Capital Partners 1,543 5.6

Offshore Fund I

Claren Road Credit 1,431 5.2

Plainfield Special Situations 713 2.6

Offshore Feeder

Event Driven OZ Europe Overseas Fund II 1,625 5.9

Paulson Advantage Plus 1,569 5.7

Volatility Trading Lydian Global Opportunities 1,716 6.3

Multiple Strategy Shepherd Investments 1,741 6.4

Total underlying hedge 27,366 100.0

fund assets

Net current assets 2,207

Total 29,573

Managed Liquidity Share Portfolio - List of Investments

2008 2007

Market Market

Value % of Value % of

£'000 Portfolio £'000 Portfolio

Invesco Perpetual Money Fund 18,311 100.0 13,615 72.9

Invesco Sterling Reserve - - 5,066 27.1

Fund

18,311 100.0 18,681 100.0

Principal Risks and Uncertainties

The Board has an ongoing process for identifying, evaluating and managing

significant risks. This process is regularly reviewed by the Board and was in

place throughout the year under review. The principal risk factors relating to

the Company can be divided into various areas:

* Investment Policy

* Risks Applicable to the Company

* Compulsory Conversion of a Class of Shares

* Liability of a Portfolio for the Liabilities of Another Portfolio

* Gearing

* Market Movements and Portfolio Performance

* Hedging

* Regulatory and Tax Related

* Additional Risks Applicable to Managed Liquidity Shares

* Additional Risks Applicable to Hedge Fund Shares

A detailed explanation of these principal risks and uncertainties can be found

in the Annual Financial Report for the year ended 31 May 2008.

Directors' Responsibility Statement

in respect of the preparation of the Annual Financial Report

Directors are responsible for preparing the Annual Financial Report in

accordance with applicable law and regulations.

Company law requires the Directors to prepare financial statements for each

financial year. Under that law the Directors have elected to prepare financial

statements in accordance with United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting

Practice. The financial statements are required by law to give a true and fair

view of the state of affairs of the Company and of the profit or loss of the

Company for that period.

In preparing these financial statements, the Directors are required to:

* select suitable accounting policies and then apply them consistently;

* make judgments and estimates that are reasonable and prudent;

* state whether applicable accounting standards have been followed, subject to

any material departures disclosed and explained in the financial statements;

and

* prepare the financial statements on the going concern basis unless it is

inappropriate to presume that the company will continue in business.

The Directors, to the best of their knowledge, state that:

* the financial statements, prepared in accordance with United Kingdom

Generally Accepted Accounting Practice, give a true and fair view of the

assets, liabilities, financial position and profit or loss of the Company; and

* the Report of the Directors includes a fair review of the development and

performance of the business and the position of the Company together with a

description of the principal risk and uncertainties that it faces.

The Directors are responsible for keeping proper accounting records that

disclose with reasonable accuracy at any time the financial position of the

Company and enable them to ensure that the financial statements comply with the

Companies Act 1985 (as updated by the Companies Act 2006). They are also

responsible for safeguarding the assets of the Company and hence for taking

reasonable steps for the prevention and detection of fraud and other

irregularities.

A detailed explanation of these principal risks and uncertainties can be found

in the Annual Financial Report for the year ended 31 May 2008.

Sir Michael Bunbury

Director

18 August 2008

Income Statement

for the year ended 31 May 2008 and period 25 August 2006 to 31 May 2007

For the Year Ended For the Period

31 May 2008 25 August 2006 to

31 May 2007

Revenue Capital Total Revenue Capital Total

Notes £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000

Gains on investments - 104 104 - 10,835 10,835

(Losses)/gains on - (20) (20) - 6 6

currency hedges

Foreign exchange gains - 59 59 - 223 223

Income 2 4,421 - 4,421 1,810 - 1,810

Investment management (218) (724) (942) (151) (335) (486)

fees

Other expenses (424) (30) (454) (262) (482) (744)

Net return before

finance

costs and taxation 3,779 (611) 3,168 1,397 10,247 11,644

Finance costs (109) (254) (363) (47) (109) (156)

Return on ordinary

activities

before tax 3,670 (865) 2,805 1,350 10,138 11,488

Tax on ordinary (368) 116 (252) (90) 44 (46)

activities

Return on ordinary

activities

after tax for the 3,302 (749) 2,553 1,260 10,182 11,442

financial year

Basic return per 4

ordinary share

UK Equity Share 3.3p (10.3)p (7.0) 1.5p 8.2p 9.7p

Portfolio p

Global Equity Share 2.2p (0.1)p 2.1p 0.9p 10.5p 11.4p

Portfolio

Hedge Fund Share (0.3)p 19.5p 19.2p (0.2)p 11.5p 11.3p

Portfolio

Managed Liquidity 4.4p (0.1)p 4.3p 1.6p 1.6p 3.2p

Share Portfolio

The total column of this statement represents the Company's profit and loss

account, prepared in accordance with UK Accounting Standards. The supplementary

revenue and capital columns are both prepared under guidance published by the

Association of Investment Companies (`AIC'). All items in the above statement

derive from continuing operations and the Company has no other gains or losses.

Therefore no statement of recognised gains or losses is presented. No

operations were discontinued in the period.

Reconciliation of Movements in Shareholders Funds

for the period 25 August 2006 to 31 May 2007 and year ended 31 May 2008

Share Capital Capital Capital

Share Premium Special Redemption Reserve Reserve- Revenue

Capital Account Reserve Reserve Realised Unrealised Reserve Total

£'000 £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000

Proceeds from

issue of

ordinary shares 1,309 129,639 - - - - - 130,948

Redemption of

preference - - (50) 50 - - - -

shares

Transfer to - (129,639) 129,639 - - - - -

special

reserve

A Share 3 - (3) - - - - -

conversion

Net gains on

disposals

of investments - - - - 2,298 - - 2,298

Increase in

unrealised

appreciation on - - - - - 8,537 - 8,537

investments

Movements on - - - - - 6 - 6

forward currency

hedges

Foreign exchange - - - - 46 177 - 223

movements

Management fees

charged

to capital - - - - (335) - - (335)

Finance costs

charged

to capital - - - - (109) - - (109)

Other expenses

charged

to capital - - - - (482) - - (482)

Tax credited to - - - - 44 - - 44

capital

Net return on

ordinary

activities per

the

Income - - - - - - 1,260 1,260

Statement

At 31 May 2007 1,312 - 129,586 50 1,462 8,720 1,260 142,390

Interim dividend - - - - - - (1,156) (1,156)

for 2007

Cancellation of - - (4) 4 - - - -

deferred

shares

Net proceeds from

issue

of new shares 10 1,290 - - - - - 1,300

Share bought back (1) - (5,428) - - - - (5,429)

cancelled/held in

treasury

Net gains on - - - - (648) - - (648)

disposals

Increase in

unrealised

appreciation on - - - - - 752 - 752

investments

Transfer on - - - - 3,397 (3,397) - -

disposal of

investments

Movements on - - - - - (20) - (20)

forward currency

hedges

Foreign exchange - - - - 65 (6) - 59

movements

Management fees

charged

to capital - - - - (724) - - (724)

Finance costs

charged to

capital - - - - (254) - - (254)

Other expenses

charged

to capital - - - - (30) - - (30)

Tax credited to - - - - 116 - - 116

capital

Net return on

ordinary

activities per

the Income

Statement - - - - - - 3,302 3,302

Interim dividend - - - - - - (3,020) (3,020)

for 2008

As at 31 May 2008 1,321 1,290 124,154 54 3,384 6,049 386 136,638

Balance Sheet

as at 31 May 2008

2008

UK Global Hedge Managed

Equity Equity Fund Liquidity Total

Notes £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000

Fixed assets

Investments held at fair 49,306 40,304 29,573 18,311 137,494

value

Current assets

Debtors 4,011 127 - 209 4,347

Cash and cash funds - - 47 3,865 3,912

4,011 127 47 4,074 8,259

Creditors: amounts

falling due within

one year (8,412) (512) (77) (114) (9,115)

Net current (liabilities) (4,401) (385) (30) 3,960 (856)

/assets

Net assets 44,905 39,919 29,543 22,271 136,638

Shareholders' funds

Share capital 476 386 227 232 1,321

Share premium account - - 1,290 - 1,290

Special reserve 45,311 35,533 21,702 21,608 124,154

Capital redemption 19 17 9 9 54

reserve

Other reserves:

Capital reserves - 1,138 1,976 (42) 312 3,384

realised

Capital reserves - (2,310) 1,913 6,463 (17) 6,049

unrealised

Revenue reserve 271 94 (106) 127 386

Shareholders' funds 44,905 39,919 29,543 22,271 136,638

Net asset value per

ordinary

share - basic 5 97.9p 110.6p 130.2p 101.0p

Balance Sheet

as at 31 May 2007

2007

Uk Global Hedge Managed

Equity Equity Fund Liquidity Total

Notes £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000

Fixed assets

Investments held at fair 55,125 41,022 22,761 18,681 137,589

value

Current assets

Debtors 1,617 886 457 1,090 4,050

Cash and cash funds 3,394 3,634 703 2,499 10,230

5,011 4,520 1,160 3,589 14,280

Creditors: amounts

falling due

within one year (7,001) (1,401) (1,036) (41) (9,479)

Net current (1,990) 3,119 124 3,548 4,801

(liabilities)/assets

Net assets 53,135 44,141 22,885 22,229 142,390

Shareholders' funds

Share capital 488 398 207 219 1,312

Special reserve 48,289 39,430 20,456 21,411 129,586

Capital redemption 19 15 8 8 50

reserve

Other reserves:

Capital reserves - 108 1,108 27 219 1,462

realised

Capital reserves - 3,572 2,845 2,221 82 8,720

unrealised

Revenue reserve 659 345 (34) 290 1,260

Shareholders' funds 53,135 44,141 22,885 22,229 142,390

Net asset value per

ordinary

share - basic 5 108.8p 110.9p 110.9p 101.6p

Cash Flow Statement

for the year ended 31 May 2008 and period 25 August 2006 to 31 May 2007

For the

Period

For the 25 August

Year Ended 2006 to

31 May 31 May

2008 2007

£'000 £'000

Net cash inflow from operating 2,748 253

activities

Servicing of finance (237) 2

Taxation 22 -

Capital expenditure and financial (2,268) (12,549)

investment

Equity dividends paid (4,175) -

Net cash outflow before management

of liquid resources and financing (3,910) (12,294)

Management of liquid resources 5,742 (9,654)

Financing (2,730) 22,301

(Decrease)/increase in cash (898) 353

Reconciliation of net cash flow to

movement in net funds

(Decrease)/increase in cash (898) 353

Cashflow from movement in liquid (5,742) 9,654

resources

Exchange movements 78 223

Cash inflow from increase in debt (1,400) (6,500)

Movement of funds in period (7,962) 3,730

Net funds at beginning of year 3,730 -

Net (debt)/funds at end of year (4,232) 3,730

Notes to the Financial Statements

1. Accounting Policies

The principal accounting policies, all of which have been applied consistently

throughout the year and the previous period, are set out below.

(a) Basis of preparation

The accounts have been prepared in accordance with applicable United Kingdom

law and Accounting Standards and with the Statement of Recommended Practice

(`SORP') for the Financial Statements of Investment Trust Companies issued in

2005.

Definitions used in the financial statements

`Portfolio' - the UK Equity Share Portfolio, the Global Equity Share Portfolio,

the Hedge Fund Share Portfolio, the Managed Liquidity Share Portfolio and/or

the A Share Portfolio (as the case may be). Comprising investment portfolio,

cash, loans, debtors and other creditors, which together make up the net assets

as shown in the balance sheet.

`Shares' - UK Equity Shares, Global Equity Shares, Hedge Fund Shares, Managed

Liquidity Shares, Deferred Shares and/or A Shares (as the case may be).

The financial statements for the Company comprise the Income Statement,

Reconciliation of Movements on Shareholders' Funds, the Total Column of the

Balance Sheet, the Cash Flow Statement and the Total or Company Notes to the

Financial Statements.

The UK Equity, Global Equity, Hedge Fund and Managed Fund Share Portfolios'

Income Statements and Balance Sheets are not required under UK Generally

Accepted Accounting Practice or the SORP, but have been disclosed to assist

shareholders' understanding of the assets and liabilities, and income and

expenses of the different share classes.

The Company's functional currency is pounds sterling as its operating

activities are based in the UK and a majority of its assets, liabilities,

income and expenses are in sterling, which is also the currency in which these

accounts are prepared.

In order to better reflect the activities of an investment trust company and in

accordance with guidance issued by the AIC, supplementary information which

analyses the Income Statement between items of a revenue and capital nature has

been presented alongside the Income Statement. In accordance with the Company's

status as a UK investment company under Section 266 of the Companies Act 1985,

net capital returns may not be distributed by way of a dividend. Additionally,

the net revenue is the measure the Directors believe appropriate in assessing

the Company's compliance with certain requirements set out in Section 842 of

the Income and Corporation Taxes Act 1988.

During the year the Company adopted FRS 29 `Financial Instruments: Disclosure'.

The impact of this adoption has been to expand disclosures provided in the

financial statements. There has been no effect on the Company's reported

results or financial position.

2. Income

UK Global Hedge Managed Company

Equity Equity Fund Liquidity Total

2008 £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000 £'000

Income from investments

UK dividends 1,790 377 - - 2,167

Overseas dividends 142 823 7 240 1,212

Unfranked investment income - - - - 913 913

interest

1,932 1,200 7 1,153 4,292

Other income

Deposit interest 10 95 1 3 109

Underwriting and sundry 8 7 3 2 20

Total income 1,950 1,302 11 1,158 4,421

2007

Income from investments

UK dividends 753 135 - - 888

Overseas dividends 96 342 3 12 453

Unfranked investment income - (33) 19 - 339 325

interest

816 496 3 351 1,666

Other income

Deposit interest 68 55 3 18 144

Total income 884 551 6 369 1,810

3. Dividends

Dividends paid for each applicable Share in the year ended 31 May 2008 follow.

Of these dividends, the first set of interims paid was in respect of the period

ended 31 May 2007, and the next two sets of dividends paid were the first and

second interim sets of dividends for the year ended 31 May 2008. No dividends

were paid in the period ended 31 May 2007.

2008 2007

NUMBER OF DIVIDEND TOTAL NUMBER OF DIVIDEND TOTAL

SHARES RATE SHARES RATE

(PENCE) £'000 (PENCE) £'000

UK Equity

First interim 47,935,519 1.45 695 44,752,594 1.50 671

Second 45,737,619 1.25 572 - - -

interim

2.70 1,267 1.50 671

Global Equity

First interim 37,937,789 0.90 342 37,595,658 0.80 301

Second 37,465,247 1.25 468 - - -

interim

2.15 810 0.80 301

Managed

Liquidity

First interim 21,526,401 2.45 527 18,386,589 1.00 184

Second 21,872,767 1.90 416 - - -

interim

4.35 943 1.00 184

For the purpose of s842 Income and Corporation Taxes Act 1988, the dividends

declared by the Company for the year ended 31 May 2008 were £3,020,000 (period

ended 31 May 2007: £1,156,000).

4. Basic return per ordinary share

Basic revenue, capital and total return per ordinary share is based on each of

the returns on ordinary activities after taxation as shown by the Income

Statement for the applicable Share and on the following number of shares being

the weighted number of shares in issue throughout the period for each

applicable Share:

Average Number of Shares

Share 2008 2007

UK Equity 47,115,373 44,773,798

Global Equity 37,842,061 37,607,185

Hedge Fund 21,334,560 19,593,000

Managed 22,062,528 18,404,734

Liquidity

5. Net asset values per share

The net asset value per share and the net assets attributable at the period end

were as follows:

Ordinary Shares 2008 2007

Net Net Asset

Asset

Value Net Assets Value per Net Assets

per

Share Attributable Share Attributable

Pence £'000 Pence £'000

UK Equity 97.9 44,905 108.8 53,135

Global Equity 110.6 39,919 110.9 44,141

Hedge Fund 130.2 29,543 110.9 22,885

Managed Liquidity 101.0 22,271 101.6 22,229

Net asset value per Share is based on net assets at the period end and on the

number of relevant shares in issue at the period end.

The financial information set out above does not constitute the Company's

statutory accounts for the year ended 31 May 2008 or the year ended 31 May

2007. The financial information for 2007 is derived from the statutory accounts

for 2007, which have been delivered to the Registrar of Companies. The auditors

have reported on the 2007 accounts; their report was unqualified, did not

include a reference to any matters to which the auditors drew attention by way

of emphasis without qualifying the report and did not contain a statement under

section 237 (2) or (3) of the Companies Act 1985. The statutory accounts for

the year ended 31 May 2008 have not yet been delivered to the Registrar of

Companies. The statutory accounts for the year ended 31 May 2008 have been

finalised on the basis of the information presented by the directors in this

Annual Financial Report announcement and will be delivered to the Registrar of

Companies following the Company's Annual General Meeting.

The audited Annual Financial Report will be available to shareholders shortly.

Copies may be obtained during normal business hours from the Company's

Registered Office, 30 Finsbury Square, London, EC2A 1AG or the Company's

website at www.invescoperpetual.co.uk/investmenttrusts.

The Separate General Meetings and Annual General Meeting will be held on 23

September 2008 from 10.45 am (AGM at 11.00am) at 30 Finsbury Square, London,

EC2A 1AG.

By order of the Board

Invesco Asset Management Limited

18 August 2008

END

INVESCO PERPETUAL SELECT TRUST PLC

Subject: Earnings

Publication title: PR Newswire Europe Including UK Disclose; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 19, 2008

Dateline: London, August 19, London, August 19

Publisher: PR Newswire Association LLC

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

ProQuest document ID: 466995448

Document URL: https://login.proxy. lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/466995448?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright (c) 2008 PR Newswire Europe Limited. All Rights Reserved.

Last updated: 2018-02-21

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 231 of 313

PRESS RELEASE: Shoe Carnival Reports Second Quarter 2008 Results

Publication info: Dow Jones Institutional News ; New York [New York]21 Aug 2008.

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Abstract: None available.

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EVANSVILLE, Ind.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--August 21, 2008--

Shoe Carnival, Inc. (Nasdaq: SCVL) a leading retailer of value-priced footwear and accessories, today announced sales and earnings for the second quarter ended August 2, 2008.

Net earnings for the thirteen-week second quarter were $977,000, or $0.08 per diluted share, compared to net earnings of $167,000, or $0.01 per diluted share, for the thirteen-week prior year second quarter ended August 4, 2007.

Sales for the second quarter were $158.5 million compared to sales of $154.8 million for the prior year second quarter. Comparable store sales for the thirteen-week period ended August 2, 2008 decreased 1.0 percent compared with the thirteen-week period ended August 4, 2007.

The gross profit margin for the second quarter was 26.6 percent compared to 26.0 percent for the second quarter of the prior year. As a percentage of sales, the merchandise margin increased 0.9 percent while buying, distribution and occupancy costs increased 0.3 percent.

Selling, general and administrative expenses for the second quarter were $40.7 million, or 25.7 percent of sales, compared to $40.1 million, or 25.9 percent of sales, for the second quarter of 2007.

Speaking on the results for the quarter, Mark Lemond, chief executive officer and president said, "Although consumers continued to face a great deal of economic pressure during the second quarter, we believe their use of the government stimulus checks did provide a short-term boost in our sales. We were able to increase the average realized price for our footwear, particularly within our adult and children's athletic categories. This price increase resulted in the second consecutive quarter of an increase in athletic footwear sales in comparable stores.

Our second quarter performance continued to reflect strong inventory management and effective expense control. Our merchants reduced year-over-year inventory on a per store basis by approximately 7.0 percent and actually improved merchandise margins. Despite a 1.0 percent decrease in comparable store sales, we were able to leverage our selling, general and administrative expenses by 0.2 percent."

Net income for the first half of 2008 was $5.8 million, or $0.46 per diluted share, compared with net income of $7.5 million, or $0.55 per diluted share, in the first half last year. Net sales for the first six months was $320.6 million compared to net sales of $320.5 million for the same period last year. Comparable store sales for the twenty-six week period ended August 2, 2008 decreased 3.0 percent compared to the twenty-six week period last year ended August 4, 2007. The gross profit margin for the first six months of 2008 was 27.8 percent compared to 28.1 percent last year. Selling, general and administrative expenses, as a percentage of sales, was 24.9 percent for the first six months of 2008 as compared to 24.8 percent last year.

Store Growth

Currently, the Company expects to open 24 new stores in fiscal 2008 and close 11 stores. Store openings and closings by quarter and for the fiscal year are currently planned as follows:

New StoresStores Closings
-------------------- -----------------------
1st Quarter 200820
2nd Quarter 2008122
3rd Quarter 200891
4th Quarter 200818
-------------------- -----------------------
Fiscal 20082411

The twelve stores opened during the second quarter included locations in:

CityMarket/Total Stores in Market
---------------------------------- ----------------------------------
Virginia Beach, VANorfolk/5
Edwardsville, ILSt. Louis/11
Branson, MOSpringfield/2
Boise, IDBoise/1
Logan, UTSalt Lake City/2
West Jordan, UTSalt Lake City/2
McCreeless, TXSan Antonio/4
San Antonio, TXSan Antonio/4
Omaha, NEOmaha/2
Council Bluffs, NEOmaha/2
Pace, FLMobile/3
Loveland, CODenver/5
Conference Call

Today, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern time, the Company will host a conference call to discuss the second quarter results. The public can listen to the live webcast of the call by visiting Shoe Carnival's Investor Relations page at www.shoecarnival.com. While the question-and-answer session will be available to all listeners, questions from the audience will be limited to institutional analysts and investors. A replay of the webcast will be available on our website beginning approximately two hours after the conclusion of the conference call and will be archived for one year.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking statements, within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause our actual results, performance, achievements or industry results to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to: general economic conditions in the areas of the United States in which our stores are located; changes in the overall retail environment and more specifically in the apparel and footwear retail sectors; our ability to generate increased sales at our stores; the potential impact of national and international security concerns on the retail environment; changes in our relationships with key suppliers; the impact of competition and pricing; changes in weather patterns, consumer buying trends and our ability to identify and respond to emerging fashion trends; the impact of disruptions in our distribution or information technology operations; the effectiveness of our inventory management; the impact of hurricanes or other natural disasters on our stores, as well as on consumer confidence and purchasing in general; risks associated with the seasonality of the retail industry; our ability to successfully execute our growth strategy, including the availability of desirable store locations at acceptable lease terms, our ability to open new stores in a timely and profitable manner and the availability of sufficient funds to implement our growth plans; higher than anticipated costs associated with the closing of underperforming stores; the inability of manufacturers to deliver products in a timely manner; changes in the political and economic environments in the People's Republic of China, Brazil, Spain and East Asia, the primary manufacturers of footwear; and the continued favorable trade relations between the United States and China and the other countries which are the major manufacturers of footwear.

In addition, these forward-looking statements necessarily depend upon assumptions, estimates and dates that may be incorrect or imprecise and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors. Accordingly, any forward-looking statements included in this press release do not purport to be predictions of future events or circumstances and may not be realized. Forward-looking statements can be identified by, among other things, the use of forward-looking terms such as "believes," "expects," "may," "will," "should," "seeks," "pro forma," "anticipates," "intends" or the negative of any of these terms, or comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategy or intentions. Given these uncertainties, we caution investors not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. We disclaim any obligation to update any of these factors or to publicly announce any revisions to the forward-looking statements contained in this press release to reflect future events or developments.

Shoe Carnival is a chain of 303 footwear stores located in the Midwest, South and Southeast. Combining value pricing with an entertaining store format, Shoe Carnival is a leading retailer of name brand and private label footwear for the entire family. Headquartered in Evansville, IN, Shoe Carnival trades on The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC under the symbol SCVL. Shoe Carnival's press releases and annual report are available on the Company's website at www.shoecarnival.com.

Financial Tables Follow
SHOE CARNIVAL, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(In thousands, except per share)
ThirteenThirteenTwenty-six Twenty-six
Weeks Ended Weeks Ended Weeks Ended Weeks Ended
August 2,August 4,August 2,August 4,
2008200720082007
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Net sales$158,480$154,805$320,599$320,458
Cost of sales
(including buying,
distribution and
occupancy costs)116,334114,558231,373230,420
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Gross profit42,14640,24789,22690,038
Selling, general and
administrative
Expenses40,66140,11879,98479,443
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Operating income1,4851299,24210,595
Interest income(39)(176)(76)(510)
Interest expense36326964
----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
Income before income

(MORE TO FOLLOW)

August 21, 2008 07:00 ET (11:00 GMT)

Subject: Administrative expenses; Corporate profits; Profit margins; Inventory; Investments; Trends; Earnings; Webcasting; Retail stores; Inventory management; Costs; New store openings; Net income

Location: Spain United States--US China Brazil Virginia East Asia

Company / organization: Name: Nasdaq Stock Market Inc; NAICS: 523210; Name: Shoe Carnival Inc; NAICS: 448210

Publication title: Dow Jones Institutional News; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 21, 2008

Publisher: Dow Jones & Company Inc

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2244547776

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2244547776?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Dow Jones & Company Inc Aug 21, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-22

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 232 of 313

Monopoly's new high-rent district

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Los Angeles Times ; Los Angeles, Calif. [Los Angeles, Calif]21 Aug 2008: C.3.

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Abstract:

The Canadian metropolis of Montreal snagged the most expensive spot on a new global version of Monopoly, unseating the Atlantic City, N.J., fixture as the board game's most prestigious property.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Bye-bye, Boardwalk.

The Canadian metropolis of Montreal snagged the most expensive spot on a new global version of Monopoly, unseating the Atlantic City, N.J., fixture as the board game's most prestigious property.

Montreal will be joined by the Latvian capital Riga, which grabbed the game's No. 2 Park Place spot, and 20 other world cities when Monopoly Here & Now: The World Edition goes on sale this month. Other cities featured, chosen by online vote, include Jerusalem, London, Paris, New York, Rome and Taipei.

"Chance" and "Community Chest" cards will highlight global cultural fare, such as Brazil's Carnival and St. Patrick's Day in Ireland.

The latest version of the board game will be printed in 37 languages and sold in 50 countries, toy maker Hasbro Inc. said Wednesday.

More than a dozen versions of the real estate game, created with Atlantic City street names in 1935, are sold today.

Credit: Associated Press

Subject: Games; Cities

Publication title: Los Angeles Times; Los Angeles, Calif.

Pages: C.3

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 21, 2008

Dateline: EAST LONGMEADOW, MASS.

Section: Business; Part C; Business Desk

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Los Angeles, Calif.

Country of publication: United States, Los Angeles, Calif.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 04583035

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 422231748

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/422231748?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright (c) 2008 Los Angeles Times)

Last updated: 2017-11-14

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 233 of 313

Crossing the Blues

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune Business News ; Washington [Washington]21 Aug 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

The resulting pieces, in a variety of media, will then be sold through a silent auction that ends promptly at 5 p.m. Art lovers can watch as the pieces are being created, then take home a spontaneous work of art.

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Full text:

Aug. 21--La Grande Downtown welcomes travelers and residents to help celebrate everything that makes Eastern Oregon a unique place.

Enjoy locally produced food, noted musicians, nationally-recognized artists and writers, and independent film makers at La Grande's summer festival.

All of the activities take place on Adams Avenue at Fourth Street, where the historic city hall, new library and Max Square share an intersection in the heart of town.

ART -- The Crossing the Blues Quick Draw takes place in the area of the Farmer's Market from 10 to 11 a.m., Saturday during the festival.

The committee expects 10 to 15 artists to take part in the event that allows each artist only one hour to complete an original work of art. The resulting pieces, in a variety of media, will then be sold through a silent auction that ends promptly at 5 p.m.

Art lovers can watch as the pieces are being created, then take home a spontaneous work of art. In doing so, they will be contributing to the renovation of the La Grande Carnegie Library into an arts and culture center that will enhance the community far into the future.

Artists expected to participate in the Quick Draw are Ruthie Yates, Tom Dimond, Glennis Phillips, Brenna Tyler, Amber MacLean, Katherine Treffinger, Bob Jensen, Ann Yoder and more.

The Crossing the Blues: Visual Arts Invitational, opens Friday at Satellite Gallery and runs through Sept. 12. Doug Kaigler and Tom Dimond, well known regional artists and current and former EOU art professors, are curators of the show. They have invited 24 Union County artists to participate in what they hope will become an annual exhibition that showcases the exceptional talent of artists living and working in the area

The exhibit includes an eclectic combination of artistic styles and media, including photography, printmaking, bronze sculpture, ceramics, blown and fused glass, painting and mixed media.

Artists represented have won numerous awards and participated in a wide range of juried fixed and touring exhibitions. The opening reception, Friday from 6 to 9 p.m., is an opportunity to enjoy a variety of art styles and to meet many of the artists.

Several other downtown shops and galleries will also extend the Third Thursday Art Walk from tonight to Friday evening to help kick off Crossing the Blues. Satellite Gallery is in the heart of downtown La Grande at 116 Depot St. The gallery is open Tuesday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday, noon to 4 p.m.

For more information about the featured artists or upcoming shows, call the gallery at 541-963-4617 or visit www.satelliteartgallery.com .

MUSIC -- The musical component of CTB is rich with variety and talent. The Wasteland Kings get things rocking with a concert and street dance Friday evening at 7:30. Take Americana, add some blues, mix in a bit of reggae, a touch of punk and a shot of country to come up with the unique sound of this band.

Saturday, La Grande's own bluegrass band Summit Ridge serenades the Farmers Market.

At noon, Greg Rawlins takes the stage at Max Square. His music waivers between the traditional and the nonsensical, the focused and the aloof.

Next in line is Test Audiences, a "constantly changing and innovative band," at 1:30.

Charm Particles, at 3 p.m., features the haunting vocals of Pamela Rooney, the shimmering guitar work of Sarah Fitzgerald and Nathanael Merrill's gigantic drums.

At 4:30, listen to Finn Riggins, which has been described as a blend of catchy rock riffs and electronic magic. Get the full descriptions and biographies of these bands by going to www.crossingtheblues.com .

The headliner band the CTB is the highly acclaimed Tom Bergeron & Whirled News, playing with two local guest musicians who are very familiar to local music lovers. The band is led by Salem musicians Tom Bergeron (a former EOU music faculty member) on woodwinds and Keller Coker on trombone. They are supported by Portlanders Jason Palmer on drums and Will Amend on bass.

Multi-award winning EOU music professor and La Grande favorite Matt Cooper will join them on keyboard, and Carolyn Lochert from Lostine will sing several songs. The band plays a groove-oriented blend of original compositions influenced by music from around.

Bergeron, Keller and Cooper were all members of the group Clovis, which recorded a self-titled CD in 2004. Prior to that, Tom and Matt also played in a group of Oregon musician/educators called Pacific Five. Both groups specialized in original compositions; the "Clovis" CD is available locally at Sunflower Books, the Bookloft and Betty's Books, as well as through CDbaby.

Tom has also recently been traveling to Brazil for in-depth explorations of the Brazilian style known as choro. The group will feature several choros on the 23rd. The genesis of this idea came from the fact that Carolyn, with whom Matt plays periodically at Ten Depot and up in Enterprise, lived for a time in Corvallis, and Matt and Tom discovered she knows and played music with several of the former members of Pacific Five, as well as other mutual acquaintances. They began talking of an eastern/western Oregon jazz collaboration.

DRAMA -- Watch a special production of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" Saturday at 6 p.m., near City Hall. The Eastern Oregon University's theater program presents its interpretation of the famous Shakespeare play, setting it in modern times. Temperamental fairies, fools in love and the charming Puck make this a production not to be missed.

FILM -- Crossing the Blues will premiere the films that are produced during the La Grande Summer Film Project, organized by Cold Coffee Media. The film project is intended to create an awareness for film and video as a powerful art medium here in the Grande Ronde Valley. Twenty-five filmmakers signed on to take to the streets of La Grande this week. With cameras in hand, the teams will be given a random genre, one line of dialogue, a sponsored location, and a mystery prop, all of which they must encompass into their 15-minute short film.

The teams have just a few days to write, shoot and edit the film. The results of their creative efforts will be shown Friday at 10:30 p.m. in Max Square, following the evening's Wasteland Kings concert and street dance.

Filmmakers are encouraged to take photographs and blog their production days, so tune in to www.crossingtheblues.com during the week to read up on the project progress.

Track the filmmakers' progress all week at lagrandefilm.blogspot.com .

WRITING -- Everyone has stories worth telling -- of stirring events, of unique and beautiful landscapes, of conversations in passing outside a favorite downtown shop or eatery.

To celebrate local writing and writers, the Blue Mountain Writers host a series of writing events Saturday in the Colleen Johnson Community Room at the Cook Memorial Library, on the corner of Fourth and Adams. Writers, readers and listeners are welcome.

At the Authors Fair, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., meet local authors and publishers, purchase books written or published locally and have them autographed, and meet members of local writers' groups and find out how you can get more involved.

During Oral History, 10 a.m. to noon, write or record stories of your experience living in Eastern Oregon for inclusion in the Regional Voices compilation. There will be prompts and photos available to provide ideas and a separate room for the recordings.

The Writing Marathon, noon to 2 p.m., is based on the New Orleans Writing Marathon. Writers will gather in the Community Room, form small groups, select several downtown locations, and then spend 20 to 30 minutes writing in each location.

Writers will eventually return to the Community Room for the Open Mic, 2 to 4 p.m., where they (and other people) read their writing or a favorite written by someone else. Union County Poetry Contest winners will be announced and are invited to read.

FOOD -- Great food is the focus at the Farmers Market, 9 a.m. to noon Saturday in Max Square.

Foodies will find a wide array of fresh fruit, vegetables, flowers and bakery goods. The restaurants in the downtown area -- Foley Station, Domino Pizza, Joe & Sugars, Highway 30 and others -- will open their doors for guests to come in and sample some of their most popular dishes. Foley Station will offer sample-size dishes of Chef Merlyn Baker's famous cuisine.

Food selection also includes barbecued ribs, fresh corn on the cob, and baked beans from Dukes and Hawaiian-style wings from Aloha Wings. Bud Jackson's Beer Garden provides a refreshing way to unwind. And don't forget to top it all off with a scoop of ice cream from Hought's Ice Cream & Burgers, which will be in the downtown core for the event.

FUN -- A Children's Carnival will take place all day Saturday, featuring miniature donkeys from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., horse rides from 2 to 4 p.m., a Lucky Ducky pond, basketball hoops, Think Link, mini tennis, bean bag toss, the Mobile Fun Unit, face painting, balloon art, three mini-claw machines, the shower tower from the La Grande Fire Department and prizes. The cost is $2 for a 10-punch pass (not every attraction requires a punch).

CROSSING THE BLUES EVENT SCHEDULE

Friday

5:30 p.m.: Friday Night Artwalk Reprisal, Crossing the Blues: Visual Arts Invitational and Hudson Car Show, Adams Avenue

5 to 10 p.m.: Bud Jackson's Downtown Beer Garden and food vendors

7:30 p.m.: Street dance with live music by Wasteland Kings

10 p.m.: The La Grande Summer Film Project, near City Hall

Saturday

9 a.m. to noon: Farmers Market live music by Summit Ridge and other activities

10 a.m. to 4 p.m.:

--Children's Carnival

--Homegrown Prosperity Renewable Energy Bus

--Art Vendors on Adams Avenue

--Artists' Quick Draw Competition in Max Square

Food available all day

Writing Events at Cook Memorial Library in the Colleen Johnson Community Room

2 to 10 p.m.: Bud Jackson's Downtown Beer Garden and food vendors

6 p.m.: "Midsummer Night's Dream performance outside City Hall

Music on Festival Stage -- Saturday

--Noon -- Finn Riggins

--1:30 p.m. -- Greg Rawlins

--3 p.m. -- Test Audiences

--4 p.m. -- Charm Particles

--8:15 p.m. -- Tom Bergeron & Whirled News

Public transportation available from off-site lots throughout the day Saturday.

Credit: The Observer, La Grande, Ore.

Subject: Musicians & conductors; Musical performances; Music; Art exhibits

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune Business News; Washington

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 21, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 464421776

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https:// search.proquest.com/docview/464421776?accountid=4840

Copyright: To see more of The Observer or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.lagrandeobserver.com/. Copyright (c) 2008, The Observer, La Grande, Ore. Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Last updated: 2017-10-30

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 234 of 313

August 24, 2008 (Page 33 of 118)

Publication info: Asheville Citizen-Times (1991-2011) ; Asheville, North Carolina [Asheville, North Carolina]24 Aug 2008: 33.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Asheville Citizen-Times (1991-2011); Asheville, North Carolina

Volume: 139

Issue: 237

First page: 33

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 24, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Asheville, North Carolina

Country of publication: United States, Asheville, North Carolina

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 1060-3255

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: Eng lish

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2125773703

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2125773703?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Aug 24, 2008

Last updated: 2018-10-27

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 235 of 313

August 24, 2008 (Page 176 of 255)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]24 Aug 2008: 176.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

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Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 49

Issue: 121

First page: 176

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 24, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249130766

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249130766?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Aug 24, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 236 of 313

WARM-UP FOR CARNIVAL IN MIRAMAR SATURDAY EVENT SPOTLIGHTS CARIBBEAN FOOD, MUSIC, CULTURE

Author: Guanche, Chris

Publication info: South Florida Sun - Sentinel ; Fort Lauderdale, Fla. [Fort Lauderdale, Fla]24 Aug 2008: 1.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

"All the people in South Florida, whether they're from Trinidad, Guyana, Jamaica ... they can come to Carnival Warm Up and see what Brazil's costumes are going to look like," [Keith Winslow] said.

Past events have drawn anywhere from 3,000 to 6,000 attendees. For this year's event, Winslow said they're reaching out more to the Hispanic community, and some of the featured musical guests will include rapper Pitbull and percussionist Tito Puente Jr.

This season will see the Broward Caribbean Carnival at a new location - Central Broward Regional Park in Lauderhill. The new location offers nicer amenities and will help alleviate parking problems from previous years at Markham Park, said Rafiek Mohammed, Broward Caribbean Carnival's director. In the buildup to October's event, there will also be a children's Carnival at Huizenga Plaza in Fort Lauderdale on Oct. 5.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Before the Broward Caribbean Carnival kicks off in October, Miramar residents will have their own Carnival Warm Up on Saturday.

The event will take place from 3 to 11 p.m. at Miramar Regional Park, 16801 Miramar Parkway. The warm-up event is designed to serve as a preview for what people will see at the larger October event, said Keith Winslow, marketing director for North Miami Beach-based Vibez Radio, the event's sponsor.

"All the people in South Florida, whether they're from Trinidad, Guyana, Jamaica ... they can come to Carnival Warm Up and see what Brazil's costumes are going to look like," Winslow said.

In past years, the event has taken place in Miami and Hialeah, but Winslow said they're now in a long-term deal to run it in Miramar. Winslow believes the new location is ideal because of the many Caribbean natives who make up the population.

"The idea is to make this work this year and make this a permanent location," he said.

Past events have drawn anywhere from 3,000 to 6,000 attendees. For this year's event, Winslow said they're reaching out more to the Hispanic community, and some of the featured musical guests will include rapper Pitbull and percussionist Tito Puente Jr.

Another goal for this year is to present a wider variety of food from the Caribbean. That even means turning away well-known restaurants if they offer the same food as other vendors.

"Our culture is very strong, and we keep these major events to bring out our culture in the park, so people can taste our food and see our ethnic difference when it comes to getting together, dancing," said Al Fearon, president and chief operating officer of Vibez Radio.

By showing off what Caribbean culture has to offer, Fearon believes that'll help keep it alive in South Florida because many transplants assimilate into their new community once they settle down.

"It's a very big opportunity for us as a cultural organization, as well as for the city of Miramar," he said.

This season will see the Broward Caribbean Carnival at a new location - Central Broward Regional Park in Lauderhill. The new location offers nicer amenities and will help alleviate parking problems from previous years at Markham Park, said Rafiek Mohammed, Broward Caribbean Carnival's director. In the buildup to October's event, there will also be a children's Carnival at Huizenga Plaza in Fort Lauderdale on Oct. 5.

"It brings all the cultures of the Caribbean together as one people," Mohammed said.

For Winslow, the complementary events present an opportunity for everyone to see what Caribbean music, food and dance is about in a big venue.

"It's like the Olympics for the Caribbean," he said.

Admission for Carnival Warm Up is $30, but children under 12 get in free.

For information, visit www.carnivalwarmup com.

Chris Guanche can be reached at cguanche@tribune.com.

Credit: By Chris Guanche Staff Writer

People: Winslow, Keith

Company: Vibez Radio

Publication title: South Florida Sun - Sentinel; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

First page: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 24, 2008

Section: CommNews

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 389920201

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/389920201?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by the Sun-Sentinel)

Last updated: 2017-11-10

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 237 of 313

Warm-up for Carnival coming to Miramar: Saturday event spotlights Caribbean food, music, culture

Author: Guanche, Chris

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune Business News ; Washington [Washington]24 Aug 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Aug. 24--Before the Broward Caribbean Carnival kicks off in October, Miramar residents will have their own Carnival Warm Up on Saturday.

The event will take place from 3 to 11 p.m. at Miramar Regional Park, 16801 Miramar Parkway. The warm-up event is designed to serve as a preview for what people will see at the larger October event, said Keith Winslow, marketing director for North Miami Beach-based Vibez Radio, the event's sponsor.

"All the people in South Florida, whether they're from Trinidad, Guyana, Jamaica ... they can come to Carnival Warm Up and see what Brazil's costumes are going to look like," Winslow said.

In past years, the event has taken place in Miami and Hialeah, but Winslow said they're now in a long-term deal to run it in Miramar. Winslow believes the new location is ideal because of the many Caribbean natives who make up the population.

"The idea is to make this work this year and make this a permanent location," he said.

Past events have drawn anywhere from 3,000 to 6,000 attendees. For this year's event, Winslow said they're reaching out more to the Hispanic community, and some of the featured musical guests will include rapper Pitbull and percussionist Tito Puente Jr.

Another goal for this year is to present a wider variety of food from the Caribbean. That even means turning away well-known restaurants if they offer the same food as other vendors.

"Our culture is very strong, and we keep these major events to bring out our culture in the park, so people can taste our food and see our ethnic difference when it comes to getting together, dancing," said Al Fearon, president and chief operating officer of Vibez Radio.

By showing off what Caribbean culture has to offer, Fearon believes that'll help keep it alive in South Florida because many transplants assimilate into their new community once they settle down.

"It's a very big opportunity for us as a cultural organization, as well as for the city of Miramar," he said.

This season will see the Broward Caribbean Carnival at a new location -- Central Broward Regional Park in Lauderhill. The new location offers nicer amenities and will help alleviate parking problems from previous years at Markham Park, said Rafiek Mohammed, Broward Caribbean Carnival's director. In the buildup to October's event, there will also be a children's Carnival at Huizenga Plaza in Fort Lauderdale on Oct. 5.

"It brings all the cultures of the Caribbean together as one people," Mohammed said.

For Winslow, the complementary events present an opportunity for everyone to see what Caribbean music, food and dance is about in a big venue.

"It's like the Olympics for the Caribbean," he said.

Admission for Carnival Warm Up is $30, but children under 12 get in free.

For information, visit www.carnivalwarmup com.

Chris Guanche can be reached at cguanche@tribune.com.

Credit: South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune Business News; Washington

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 24, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 464390717

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/464390717?accountid=4840

Copyright: To see more of The South Florida Sun-Sentinel or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.sun-sentinel.com/. Copyright (c) 2008, South Florida Sun-Sentinel Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Last updated: 2017-10-30

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 238 of 313

PRESS RELEASE: Delta Adds Brazil's Amazon Region, Beaches of Northeast Coast to Growing Service Between Atlanta and Latin America

Publication info: Dow Jones Institutional News ; New York [New York]27 Aug 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Delta Adds Brazil's Amazon Region, Beaches of Northeast
Coast to Growing Service Between Atlanta and Latin America
New flights offer convenient access to world's largest
passenger hub in Atlanta to Manaus and Recife-Fortaleza
ATLANTA, Aug. 27, 2008 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Delta Air Lines
(NYSE:DAL) today announced it will offer two new direct flights between
the United States and Brazil, offering convenient access for customers
traveling to the Amazon region and to two of the most popular beach
destinations in the Brazilian Northeast.
Beginning Dec. 19, 2008, Delta will offer nonstop service
between Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and the
Eduardo Gomez International Airport in Manaus. On Dec. 22, Delta will
start service between Atlanta and the Fortaleza International Airport
via the Guararapes International Airport in Recife.*
This new service increases to 32 the number of weekly
flights Delta offers between the United States and five Brazilian
destinations.
Delta currently offers daily nonstop service between Atlanta
and New York-JFK and Sao Paulo's Guarulhos International Airport, and
between Atlanta and Rio de Janeiro's Galeao-Antonio Carlos Jobim
International Airport. Delta recently also announced the addition of a
seasonal frequency between Atlanta and Sao Paulo, effective Dec. 20,
2008.
Manaus is the capital of Amazonas, Brazil's largest state
and home to the region's main port. It is the starting point for
travelers who want to discover the wonders of the tropical rainforest
and ecological tourism options along the Rio Negro and Amazon Rivers,
the largest in the world.
Recife, the capital of the Brazilian state of Pernambuco, is
a gateway to famous tropical beaches and world-renowned resorts, and
hosts one of the main Carnival festivals of the country.
Fortaleza, the capital of the state of Ceara, lies on the
shore of the Atlantic Ocean, in the northeast of Brazil, offering 16
miles of urban beaches and an array of tourism, cultural and
gastronomic options.
Delta's schedule between Atlanta and Manaus, effective Dec. 19, 2008:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Flight DepartsArrivesFrequencyAircraft
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
557Atlanta at 5 p.m.Manaus at 12:22 a.m. DailyBoeing
737-700
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
558**Manaus at 1:30 a.m. Atlanta at 7:09 a.m. DailyBoeing
737-700
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
** Service begins Dec. 20, 2008
Delta's schedule between Atlanta and Recife-Fortaleza, effective Dec.
21, 2008:
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Flight DepartsArrivesFrequencyAircraft
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
90Atlanta at 9:15 p.m. Recife at 8:05 a.m. Tue., Thurs, Boeing
Fri. Sun.757-200
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
90**** Recife at 9:23 a.m. Fortaleza at 10:45Mon., Wed., Boeing
a.m.Fri., Sat.757-200
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
90**** Fortaleza at 11:45Atlanta at 6:40 p.m. Mon., Wed., Boeing
a.m.Fri., Sat.757-200
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
**** Service begins Dec. 22, 2008
One-way or round-trip service between Recife and Fortaleza is not
permitted. All flights must originate or end in the United States.
To kick off the new service, Delta is offering a special
one-way introductory fare of $659*** on the Atlanta-Manaus route, and
$599*** on the Atlanta-Recife-Fortaleza route for travel between Jan. 6
and March 27, 2009. Round-trip ticket purchase required. Tickets must
be purchased by Sept. 8, 2008. Additional
taxes/fees/restrictions/baggage charges may apply. Details are included
below.
"These new flights are the result of the recent limited
expansion of the bilateral agreement between the governments of the
United States and Brazil, which opens the door to new opportunities for
tourists as well as new business ventures between the two countries,"
said Christophe Didier, Delta's vice president of Sales and Government
Affairs for Latin America and the Caribbean. "We look forward to
continued expansion of this agreement in the future."
Delta Air Lines operates service to more worldwide
destinations than any airline with Delta and Delta Connection flights
to 312 destinations in 61 countries. Delta has added more international
capacity than any major U.S. airline during the last two years and is
the leader across the Atlantic with flights to 44 trans-Atlantic
markets. To Latin America and the Caribbean, Delta offers 393 weekly
flights to 47 destinations. Delta's marketing alliances also allow
customers to earn and redeem SkyMiles on more than 16,000 flights
offered by SkyTeam and other partners. Delta is a founding member of
SkyTeam, a global airline alliance that provides customers with
extensive worldwide destinations, flights and services. Including its
SkyTeam and worldwide codeshare partners, Delta offers flights to 500
worldwide destinations in 105 countries. Customers can check in for
flights, print boarding passes, check bags and flight status at
delta.com.
* Subject to foreign government approval.
The Delta Air Lines, Inc. logo is available at
http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/prs/?pkgid=1825
* TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Restrictions: Fare shown is available at delta.com. Tickets
cost $25 more if purchased from Delta over the phone, or at a Delta
ticket counter, and this amount is nonrefundable. Tickets are
nontransferable. Seats are limited. Tickets: Fare shown is one-way.
Round-trip purchase is required. Tickets must be purchased within 72
hours after reservations are made and no later than September, 8 2008.
Travel Period: For all destinations: Travel may begin on or after
January 6, 2009 and must be completed by March 27, 2009. Blackout
Dates: None. Fare Validity: Fare is valid only in the Economy (Coach)
cabin via nonstop flights operated by Delta Air Lines. Minimum Stay:
Saturday night. Maximum Stay: All travel must be completed by March 27,
2009. Taxes/Fees: A $3.50 Federal Excise Tax, Passenger Facility
Charge(s) of up to $4.50 for each flight segment, and the September
11th Security Fee of up to $2.50 for each flight segment are not
included. Fares do not include U.S. International Air Transportation
Tax of up to $30.80 and U.S. and foreign user, inspection, security or
other similarly based charges, fees or taxes of up to $299, depending
on itinerary. Taxes and fees must be paid when the ticket is purchased.
Baggage Charges: For travel within the United States/PR/U.S. Virgin
Islands, no fee for 1 checked bag and $50 fee for second checked bag.
For all other travel, no fee for 2 checked bags and $200 fee for third
checked bag. Allowances subject to size/weight limits. Contact a delta
agent or visit delta.com for details. Cancellations/Refunds/Changes:
Tickets are nonrefundable except in accordance with Delta's
cancellation policy. Fees may apply for downgrades/reissues and
itinerary changes. Contact a Delta agent or visit delta.com for
details. Miscellaneous: Fares, taxes, fees, rules, and offers are
subject to change without notice. Other restrictions may apply.
CONTACT: Delta Air Lines
Corporate Communications
404-715-2554

Click here to go to Dow Jones NewsPlus, a web front page of today's most important business and market news, analysis and commentary: http://www.djnewsplus.com/al?rnd=BoRMfymB3IV0Cliy7PnazQ%3D%3D. You can use this link on the day this article is published and the following day.

(END)

August 27, 2008 12:16 ET (16:16 GMT)

Subject: Airports; Air fares; Taxes; Travel; Aircraft industry; Customer services; Tourism; Beaches; Fees & charges

Location: Amazon Basin Rio Negro United States--US New York Latin America Brazil Rio de Janeiro Brazil Atlantic Ocean Atlanta Georgia

Company / organization: Name: Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport; NAICS: 488119; Name: Delta Air Lines Inc; NAICS: 481111; Name: Delta Connection; NAICS: 481111; Name: Boeing Co; NAICS: 336411, 336413, 336414; Name: New York Stock Exchange--NYSE; NAICS: 523210

Publication title: Dow Jones Institutional News; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 27, 2008

Publisher: Dow Jones & Company Inc

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2244319070

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2244319070?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Dow Jones & Company Inc Aug 27, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-21

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 239 of 313

Spare Times

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Aug 28, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Information about events to be considered for inclusion in Spare Times can be sent to weekend@nytimes.com.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Information about events to be considered for inclusion in Spare Times can be sent to weekend@nytimes.com.

SPARE TIMES

EVENTS

New York City

ANDREW GLOVER YOUTH PROGRAM STREET FESTIVAL, Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Fourth Avenue between 8th and 14th Streets, East Village.

BRAZILIAN DAY IN NEW YORK, a two-day festival in Midtown. Saturday at 11 a.m., “The Cleansing of 46th Street,” in preparation for Brazilian Day, with music and dance. Sunday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., the music, food and dance of Brazil, on Avenue of the Americas from 43rd to 57th Street and on 46th Street between Avenue of the Americas and Madison Avenue.

BROOKLYN LABOR DAY WALK, focusing on the history of labor and unions in the borough, with a stop at the West Indian American Labor Day Carnival, meeting Monday at 2 p.m. at the Marriott Hotel, Adams and Tillary Streets, downtown Brooklyn. Sponsored by Metro Tour Service. (718) 789-0430. $25.

CENTRAL PARK UNLOCKED: THE BLOCKHOUSE, Saturday at 1 p.m., a tour led by the Urban Park Rangers of the structure built for use as a fort during the War of 1812, meeting at the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, inside the park at 110th Street and Fifth Avenue. nyc.gov/parks/rangers.

FRIENDS OF DAG HAMMARSKJOLD PLAZA STREET FAIR, Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Second Avenue between 45th and 57th Streets, Manhattan.

GREENWICH VILLAGE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FESTIVAL, Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Broadway, from Waverly Place to 14th Street.

HENRY ISOLA CROSS COUNTRY CLASSIC, a four-mile run, Sunday at 11:30 a.m. in Van Cortlandt Park, Broadway and 248th Street, the Bronx. Race-day registration fee, $7; $5 for 14 and younger. Sponsored by the New York Road Runners. (212) 860-4455; nyrr.org.

LABOR’S GREAT ACHIEVEMENT: GRAND CENTRAL TERMINAL, a walking tour that covers the history and architecture of the terminal, Saturday and Sunday at 12:30 and 2:15 p.m. Sponsored by NYC Discovery Tours. Reservations and meeting place: (212) 465-3331. $16.

MARIO LANZA VOCAL COMPETITION, Monday, 3 to 5 p.m., on Mulberry and Hester Streets, Little Italy. Featuring more than 10 tenors. Part of the 2008 Summer in Little Italy Festival. littleitalynyconline.org; (212) 302-0551. Free.

MANHATTAN EAST COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION STREET FAIR, Monday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Lexington Avenue between 34th and 42nd Streets.

NIKE+ HUMAN RACE, a 10-kilometer walk to raise funds for several charities, Sunday at 6 p.m. on Randalls Island. New York City is one of 26 locations around the world to feature the walk, sponsored by Nike. nikeplus.com. Registration fee, $35, with proceeds to benefit the Lance Armstrong Foundation, the World Wildlife Federation and ninemillion.org, an organization created by the United Nations refugee agency, to bring education and sports programs to children in need.

NINTH COMMIES, GANGSTERS, GOONS, RADICALS, RAKES AND ROBBER BARONS: THE LABOR HERITAGE OF UNION SQUARE, a walking tour, meeting Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. and Monday at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. in front of the Lincoln statue in Union Square Park, 17th Street and Broadway. Sponsored by New York Talks and Walks. (888) 377-4455. $15, credit card; $20, cash.

OVER AND UNDER THREE BRIDGES OF BROOKLYN, Sunday at noon, a seven-mile walk that includes passage over or under the Brooklyn, Manhattan and Williamsburg Bridges, meeting in Lower Manhattan, in the Municipal Building plaza, near Centre Street, opposite City Hall. Sponsored by Shorewalkers. (212) 330-7686; shorewalkers.org. Donations accepted; free for members.

30TH AVENUE FESTIVAL, Monday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., on 30th Avenue, from 29th to 41st Street, Astoria, Queens.

U.S. OPEN LIVE, outdoor broadcasts of the tennis competition on large screens at two Manhattan locations: Friday through Sept. 7 at Madison Square Park, 23rd through 26th Street, between Madison and Fifth Avenues. Sponsored by American Express; madisonsquarepark.org. Tuesday through Sept. 7 at Rockefeller Plaza, on 50th and 51st Streets, between Fifth Avenue and Avenue of the Americas; (212) 632-3975. Both daily, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Free.

WASHINGTON SQUARE OUTDOOR ART EXHIBITION, on the sidewalks north, south and east of Washington Square Park, in Greenwich Village. Saturday through Monday, noon to 6 p.m. Also Sept. 6 and 7. Rain or shine. washingtonsquareoutdoorartexhibit.org; (212) 982-6255.

WEST INDIAN AMERICAN LABOR DAY CARNIVAL, Eastern Parkway, Utica Avenue to Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn. Monday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. wiadca.com.

WE BUILT NEW YORK: A LABOR HISTORY TOUR, a walking tour that celebrates immigrant history and the labor movement in New York City, meeting Monday at 1 p.m. on the northeast corner of Washington Square North and Fifth Avenue. Sponsored by Big Onion Walking Tours. (212) 439-1090. $15; $12 for 65+, students and members of the New-York Historical Society.

Upstate New York

FIREWORKS AT RYE PLAYLAND, Exit 19, off Interstate 95, Rye. Friday and Saturday nights at 9:15. Free; parking, $5 on Friday, $7 on Saturday. (914) 813-7010; westchestergov.com.

GREEN CORN WEEKEND, Philipsburg Manor, 381 North Broadway, Sleepy Hollow. A celebration of American Indian culture, with music, dance, crafts and food. Saturday through Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Part of Historic Hudson Valley. (914) 631-8200; hudsonvalley.org. $12; $10 for students and 62+; $6 for 5 to 17; free for under 5 and members ($2 discount when ordering online and using the promotion code “maize”).

HERB REED AND THE PLATTERS, one of the original members of this ’50s group with his band, and Jimmy Sturr and His Orchestra. Sunday night at 6, at Monticello Raceway, 204 Route 17B. (866) 777-4263, Ext. 494; mightymgaming.com. $22 and $30.

HUDSON VALLEY SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL, at Boscobel House and Garden, 1601 Route 9D, Garrison. Friday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 6 p.m., “Twelfth Night”; Saturday at 8 p.m., “Cymbeline,” (845) 265-9575; hvshakespeare.org. $38 to $44; discounts for children, students and 65+ on selected days.

JAZZ AND BLUES CONCERT IN YONKERS, Yonkers Waterfront Amphitheater. Friday, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Featuring the Brazilian singer Vanessa Falabella. yonkersdowntown.com. Free.

LABOR DAY CHESS TOURNAMENT, Monday, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the John Jay Homestead State Historic Site, Main Barn, 400 Route 22, Katonah; registration begins at 9. Open to all players; participants should provide their own chessboards, chess sets and clocks. Also presented by the Max Pavey Chess Club. Hourly house tours from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (914) 232-5651; johnjayhomestead.org. The chess tournament is free, but the house tour is $7, $5 for 62+ and students; free for those 12 and younger.

LASDON LABOR DAY ANTIQUES FAIR, Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Lasdon Park and Arboretum, Route 35, Katonah. Also featuring food, plants and music. (914) 273-4667. $7, free for those under 13; proceeds benefit Friends of Westchester County Parks.

MUSIC UNDER THE STARS, Saturday night at 6:30, with a performance of the “1812” Overture by the United States Military Academy Concert Band and Jazz Knights, at West Point, Trophy Point Amphitheater, Route 9W North to Highland Falls. (845) 938-2617; www.usma.edu/band. Free, but concertgoers should call on the day to confirm; photo ID is required.

NEW YORK RENAISSANCE FAIRE, Sterling Forest, 600 Route 17A, Tuxedo. Saturday through Monday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., and weekends through Sept. 21. (845) 351-5171; renfair.com. $20; $9 for children 5 to 12 years old ($16.75 and $7.50 in advance.)

‘THE PRODUCERS,’ the Mel Brooks musical, at the Westchester Broadway Theater, 75 Clearbrook Road, Elmsford. Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. (meal at 6:15); Sunday at 1:30 p.m. (meal at noon) and 7 p.m. (meal at 5:15). Through Nov. 15. (914) 592-2222; broadwaytheatre.com. $78, includes meal.

WOODSTOCK/NEW PALTZ ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR, Ulster County Fairgrounds, Libertyville Road, New Paltz. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Monday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (845) 679-8087; quailhollow.com. $8; $7 for 62+; $4.50 for 6 to 16.

WOODSTOCK MUSEUM FILM/VIDEO FESTIVAL, Woodstock Town Hall, 76 Tinker Street. Friday, 8 to 11:30 p.m.; Saturday, 2 to 11:45 p.m.; Sunday, 2 to midnight; (845) 246-0600; woodstockmuseum.org. Free, but donations accepted.

New Jersey

LABOR DAY BBQ AND MUSIC FEST, Westfall Winery, 141 Clove Road, Montague. Saturday and Sunday, noon to 4 p.m., with pop-rock music by the Meathooks. (973) 293-3428; westfallwinery.com. $5.

OCEAN GROVE Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., an annual Craft Show on Ocean Pathway; free. Saturday at 7:30 p.m., a doo wop show, with Speedo and the Cadillacs, the Crystals and others in the Great Auditorium, Pilgrim and Ocean Pathway. (732) 775-0035; oceangrove.org. $10 to $30.

‘PICTURING PRINCETON 1783: THE NATION’S CAPITAL,’ an exhibition in celebration of the city as the nation’s temporary capital, at the Morven Museum and Garden, 55 Stockton Street. Wednesdays through Fridays, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays, noon to 4 p.m. Through Jan. 11. (609) 924-8144; historicmorven.org. $4 and $5, $4 for 60+; free for members.‘PRIVATE LIVES,’ the Nöel Coward play, at the Kirby Shakespeare Theater, Drew University, 36 Madison Avenue, Madison. Friday at 8 p.m.; Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m.; Sunday at 2 p.m. (973) 408-5600; njshakespeare.org. $42 to $53.

SEAFARERS WEEKEND, Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at Historic Cold Spring Village, 720 Route 9 South, Cold Spring, north of Cape May. With nautical demonstrations, music and other activities. (609) 898-2300; hcsv.org. $8; $7 for 62+; $6 for children 3 to 12; free for children under 3.

RIVERFEST 2008, Bridge Street and Race Streets, Frenchtown. A celebration of the environment, with music, food and activities including a magic-theme costumed pet competition (Saturday) and a fashion show (Sunday). Saturday through Monday, 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. frenchtownnj.org. Free admission.

SUMMER SEND-OFF CRAFT SHOW, along the beachfront, on Cape May Promenade, Cape May. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (609) 884-9565.

Long Island

ANNUAL GREAT TOMATO TASTE-OFF, Quail Hill Farm, Deep Lane, Amagansett. Samplings of 50 varieties of tomatoes. Saturday, 9 a.m. to noon. (631) 283-3195, Ext. 10. Donation: $10; $5 for members; free for children under 12.

BAY STREET THEATER, Main and Bay Streets, Sag Harbor. Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 4 and 8 p.m., Sunday at 7 p.m. “Ain’t Misbehavin,” the musical with songs by Fats Waller. $65 or $75; 10 percent off for students and 65+. Comedy: Saturday, Jeffrey Ross; Sunday, Jamie Kennedy. Both at 11 p.m.; each, $50. (631) 725-9500; baystreet.org.

BEATLEMANIA, a tribute band, at the Smithtown Center for the Performing Arts, 2 East Main Street. Smithtown. Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 7 p.m. (631) 724-3700; smithtownpac.org. $35. CAPITAL ONE BANK THEATER, 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury. Friday, Chris Isaak with James Hunter, rock; $56.50. Saturday, Acoustic Hot Tuna with David Lindley, blues/rock; $40. Both at 8 p.m. (516) 334-0800; livenation.com.

THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE (ABRIDGED), the comedy by the Reduced Shakespeare Company, at Mulford Farm, 10 James Lane, East Hampton. Friday through Sunday at 7:30 p.m. (631) 324-6850; easthamptonhistory.org. $18, $12 for 65+ and those under 13.

GREAT BONAC FOOT RACE 2008, Monday at 9 a.m. in East Hampton, with a 10-kilometer run at 9 a.m. and a four-kilometer walk at 9:20 a.m. Both begin at the Springs Firehouse, 179 Fort Pond Boulevard. omaclub.org. $25 ($10 for those 65+ and 17 and younger ).

JONES BEACH HIKE, a four-to-six-mile walk on the boardwalk and trails, meeting on Monday at noon in the waiting room of the Freeport station of the Long Island Rail Road. Sponsored by Shorewalkers. (212) 330-7686 or (516) 791-6453. Donations accepted; railroad fare and bus fare additional; walkers should bring along food, water and sunscreen.

LONG ISLAND MOZART FESTIVAL, at the Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Road, (877) 444-4488; limozartfestival.com. Friday at 8 p.m., “Mozart Under the Stars”; Saturday through Monday, concerts at 5 p.m.; youth ensemble performances are at 3 p.m., followed by dance performances at 4. Lawn tickets, $10, $8 for 62+,$5 for students and children 7 to 12; free for children 6 and younger. Tent tickets, $25.

OLDE TIME MUSIC WEEKEND AT OLD BETHPAGE VILLAGE RESTORATION, Round Swamp Road. Saturday through Monday, noon to 4 p.m. With music, crafts and demonstrations of old-time baseball games Sunday at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. and Monday at noon. $10; $7 for 5 to 12, 60+ and volunteer firefighters; free for under 5. www.nassaucountyny.gov. (516) 572-8400.

62ND SHINNECOCK INDIAN POWWOW, Shinnecock Reservation, off Montauk Highway in Southampton. With dance and drum contests, food and demonstrations. Friday, 3 to 10 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (631) 283-6143, Ext. 1; shinnecocknation.com. $10; $7 for 6 to 12 and 60+; free for 5 and under.

‘THE VAGINA MONOLOGUES,’ the play by Eve Ensler, at the Arena Players Second Stage Theater, 296 Route 109, East Farmingdale. Friday and Saturday night at 9 p.m.; Sunday at 3 p.m. Through Sept. 21. (516) 293-0674; arenaplayers.org. $18 Friday and Sunday ($16 for 65+ and students), $22 on Saturday.

WESTHAMPTON BEACH PERFORMING ARTS CENTER, 76 Main Street, Westhampton Beach. Saturday at 8:30 p.m., the dance company Pilobolus; $55 to $85. Sunday at 8:30 p.m., the singer Chris Isaak; $125 to $200. (631) 288-1500; whbpac.org.

Connecticut

GOSHEN FAIR, on Route 63, Goshen. With animal contests, demonstrations and entertainment. Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Monday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (860) 491-3655; goshenfair.org. $7, free for children under 12.

PAT BENATAR AND NEIL GIRALDO, pop-rock, Sunday at 8 p.m. at the Klein Memorial Auditorium, 910 Fairfield Avenue, near Iranistan Avenue, Bridgeport. (203) 259-1036; fairfieldtheatre.org. $37 to $77.

‘EVITA,’ the musical by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, at the Ivoryton Playhouse, 103 Main Street, Ivoryton. Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m.; Sunday at 2 p.m. (860) 767-7318; ivorytonplayhouse.org. $35, $30 for 65+, $20 for students, $15 for those 12 and younger.

FISH AND SHIPS, Mystic Seaport, 75 Greenmanville Avenue, Exit 90 off Interstate 95, Mystic. With entertainment, fishing and cooking discussions, games for children and food. Friday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Monday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (888) 973-2767 or (860) 572-0711; mysticseaport.org. Museum admission: $18.50; $16.50 for 65+; $13 for ages 6 to 17; free for 5 and under; food additional.

KID ROCK, AND LYNYRD SKYNYRD, WITH REV RUN, Sunday at 7 p.m., at the New England Dodge Music Center, 61 Savitt Way, Hartford. (860) 525-4500; ticketmaster.com. $23.50 to $69.

ROLEX VINTAGE FESTIVAL, Lime Rock Park, 60 White Hollow Road, Lakeville. With practice races, races, a swap meet and a car show. Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, car show only, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Monday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (800) 722-3577; limerock.com. Daily admission, $20 on Friday, $45 on Saturday and Monday; $25 on Sunday. Free parking and access to paddock. Spectators should provide their own seating.

SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK, presented by the Elm Shakespeare Company, in Edgerton Park, 75 Cliff Street, New Haven. Friday and Sunday, “Hamlet.” Saturday, Thornton Wilder’s “Matchmaker.” All performances at 7:30 p.m.; spectators should provide their own seating. (203) 393-1436; elmshakespeare.org. Suggested donation, $10.

31ST ANNUAL STRATTON FAXON NEW HAVEN ROAD RACE, 5-kilometer and 20-kilometer races, Monday at 8:40 a.m., beginning on the New Haven Green; a race for children takes place at 8:15 a.m. at the same location. A post-race party follows from 9 to 11:30 a.m. (203) 710-2391; newhavenroadrace.org. Fees, $27 and $45 in advance, $30 and $50 on Monday; children’s race, $8 in advance, $10 on Monday.

‘TITANIC: THE ARTIFACT EXHIBITION,’ with several hundred items retrieved from the ship, including a lifeboat arm, jewelry, money, perfume and clothing, at the XL Center, 1 Civic Center Plaza, Hartford. Wednesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sundays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. $23, $21 for 60+ $19 for those 3 to 15. (860) 525-4500 or (860) 249-6333; xlcenter.com.

WOODSTOCK FAIR, at the Woodstock Fairgrounds, Routes 169 and 171, South Woodstock. With entertainment, food, rides and demonstrations. Friday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Monday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (860) 928-3246; woodstockfair.com. $12; $8 for 60+ Friday and Saturday only; free for children 10 and under.

Subject: Music; Students; Food; Registration; Walking; Festivals; Art exhibits

Location: Italy New York Americas

Identifier / keyword: New York City Food Hammarskjold, Dag Theater MARRIOTT HOTEL Urban Park Rangers Music Lanza, Mario EAST VILLAGE (NYC) Travel and Vacations Brazil CROSS COUNTRY INCORPORATED Art Armstrong, Lance Acoustics New York State New York Road Runners Club Culture Shinnecock Indians Rain Discovery Tours Jay, John Labor Day Brooks, Mel AVENUE OF THE AMERICAS (NYC) Prices (Fares, Fees and Rates) Manhattan East Ross, Jeffrey Classical Music NIKE Inc Madison (Conn) Kennedy, Jamie United Nations Brooklyn (NYC) Street Fairs and Festivals Isaak, Chris Carnival (Pre-Lenten) CENTRAL PARK (NYC) CITY HALL Hunter, James Shorewalkers SECOND AVENUE (NYC) Parks and Other Recreation Areas United States Open (Tennis) Manhattan (NYC) American Express Company Lindley, David GREENWICH VILLAGE (NYC) Shakespeare, William Tennis Rockefeller Foundation Mozart, Wolfgang Amadeus Bronx (NYC) New-York Historical Society Ensler, Eve RANDALLS ISLAND (NYC) Rye Playland Historic Hudson Valley Benatar, Pat UNION SQUARE (NYC) WILLIAMSBURG (NYC) Monticello Raceway Rice, Tim Lloyd Webber, Andrew Hudson Valley Shakespeare Festival ASTORIA (NYC) United States Military Academy Queens (NYC) Kid Rock Wilder, Thornton Westchester Broadway Theater United States Washington Square Park (NYC) Speedo GREAT AUDITORIUM Putnam County (NY) SHAKESPEARE THEATER Yonkers (NY) Ulster County (NY) Drew University New Paltz (NY) Bridge Street Bay Street Theater New Jersey Ocean Grove (NJ) Capital One Financial Corp Hot Tuna Princeton (NJ) Reduced Shakespeare Company Cape May (NJ) Long Island (NY) Long Island Rail Road Co Hamptons (NY) Second Stage Theater Westhampton Beach Performing Arts Center Sag Harbor (NY) Jones Beach (NY) Pilobolus Dance Theater Lynyrd Skynyrd Southampton (England) Shakespeare in the Park Connecticut Elm Shakespeare Company Fairfield County (Conn) Bridgeport (Conn) Mystic (Conn) New England States (US) Hartford (Conn) New Haven (Conn)

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 28, 2008

Section: arts

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--Unite d States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2221563049

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2221563049?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-09

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 240 of 313

Delta Air Lines: Delta Adds Brazil's Amazon Region, Beaches of Northeast Coast to Growing Service between Atlanta and Latin America; New flights offer convenient access to world's largest passenger hub in Atlanta to Manaus and Recife-Fortaleza

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: M2 Presswire ; Coventry [Coventry]28 Aug 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

M2 PRESSWIRE-August 28, 2008-Delta Air Lines: Delta Adds Brazil's Amazon Region, Beaches of Northeast Coast to Growing Service between Atlanta and Latin America; New flights offer convenient access to world's largest passenger hub in Atlanta to Manaus and Recife-Fortaleza (C)1994-2008 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD

Delta Air Lines operates service to more worldwide destinations than any airline with Delta and Delta Connection flights to 312 destinations in 61 countries. Delta has added more international capacity than any major U.S. airline during the last two years and is the leader across the Atlantic with flights to 44 trans-Atlantic markets. To Latin America and the Caribbean, Delta offers 393 weekly flights to 47 destinations.

Delta's marketing alliances also allow customers to earn and redeem SkyMiles on more than 16,000 flights offered by SkyTeam and other partners. Delta is a founding member of SkyTeam, a global airline alliance that provides customers with extensive worldwide destinations, flights and services. Including its SkyTeam and worldwide codeshare partners, Delta offers flights to 500 worldwide destinations in 105 countries. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes, check bags and flight status at delta.com.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

M2 PRESSWIRE-August 28, 2008-Delta Air Lines: Delta Adds Brazil's Amazon Region, Beaches of Northeast Coast to Growing Service between Atlanta and Latin America; New flights offer convenient access to world's largest passenger hub in Atlanta to Manaus and Recife-Fortaleza (C)1994-2008 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD

ATLANTA -- Delta Air Lines (NYSE: DAL) today announced it will offer two new direct flights between the United States and Brazil, offering convenient access for customers traveling to the Amazon region and to two of the most popular beach destinations in the Brazilian Northeast.

Beginning Dec. 19, 2008, Delta will offer nonstop service between Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport and the Eduardo Gomez International Airport in Manaus. On Dec.

22, Delta will start service between Atlanta and the Fortaleza International Airport via the Guararapes International Airport in Recife.*

This new service increases to 32 the number of weekly flights Delta offers between the United States and five Brazilian destinations.

Delta currently offers daily nonstop service between Atlanta and New York-JFK and So Paulo's Guarulhos International Airport, and between Atlanta and Rio de Janeiro's Galeo-Antonio Carlos Jobim International Airport. Delta recently also announced the addition of a seasonal frequency between Atlanta and So Paulo, effective Dec. 20, 2008.

Manaus is the capital of Amazonas, Brazil's largest state and home to the region's main port. It is the starting point for travelers who want to discover the wonders of the tropical rainforest and ecological tourism options along the Rio Negro and Amazon Rivers, the largest in the world.

Recife, the capital of the Brazilian state of Pernambuco, is a gateway to famous tropical beaches and world-renowned resorts, and hosts one of the main Carnival festivals of the country.

Fortaleza, the capital of the state of Cear, lies on the shore of the Atlantic Ocean, in the northeast of Brazil, offering 16 miles of urban beaches and an array of tourism, cultural and gastronomic options.

Delta's schedule between Atlanta and Manaus, effective Dec. 19, 2008:

Flight

___Departs

__Arrives

___Frequency

___Aircraft

557

__Atlanta at 5 p.m.

___Manaus at 12:22 a.m.

___Daily

__Boeing 737-700

558**___Manaus at 1:30 a.m.

__Atlanta at 7:09 a.m.

___Daily

__Boeing 737-700

** Service begins Dec. 20, 2008

Delta's schedule between Atlanta and Recife-Fortaleza, effective Dec. 21, 2008:

Flight

__Departs

__Arrives

_

Frequency

___Aircraft

90

___Atlanta at 9:15 p.m.

__Recife at 8:05 a.m.__Tue., Thurs, Fri. Sun.Boeing 757-200

90***___Recife at 9:23 a.m.__ __Fortaleza at 10:45 a.m. Mon., Wed., Fri., Sat. Boeing 757-200

90***___Fortaleza at 11:45 a.m.__Atlanta at 6:40 p.m.__Mon., Wed., Fri., Sat. Boeing 757-200 **** Service begins Dec. 22, 2008.

One-way or round-trip service between Recife and Fortaleza is not permitted. All flights must originate or end in the United States.

To kick off the new service, Delta is offering a special one-way introductory fare of $659*** on the Atlanta-Manaus route, and $599*** on the Atlanta-Recife-Fortaleza route for travel between Jan. 6 and March 27, 2009. Round-trip ticket purchase required. Tickets must be purchased by Sept. 8, 2008. Additional taxes/fees/restrictions/baggage charges may apply. Details are included below.

"These new flights are the result of the recent limited expansion of the bilateral agreement between the governments of the United States and Brazil, which opens the door to new opportunities for tourists as well as new business ventures between the two countries," said Christophe Didier, Delta's vice president of Sales and Government Affairs for Latin America and the Caribbean. "We look forward to continued expansion of this agreement in the future."

Delta Air Lines operates service to more worldwide destinations than any airline with Delta and Delta Connection flights to 312 destinations in 61 countries. Delta has added more international capacity than any major U.S. airline during the last two years and is the leader across the Atlantic with flights to 44 trans-Atlantic markets. To Latin America and the Caribbean, Delta offers 393 weekly flights to 47 destinations.

Delta's marketing alliances also allow customers to earn and redeem SkyMiles on more than 16,000 flights offered by SkyTeam and other partners. Delta is a founding member of SkyTeam, a global airline alliance that provides customers with extensive worldwide destinations, flights and services. Including its SkyTeam and worldwide codeshare partners, Delta offers flights to 500 worldwide destinations in 105 countries. Customers can check in for flights, print boarding passes, check bags and flight status at delta.com.

*Subject to foreign government approval.

***TERMS AND CONDITIONS Restrictions: Fare shown is available at delta.com. Tickets cost $25 more if purchased from Delta over the phone, or at a Delta ticket counter, and this amount is nonrefundable.

Tickets are nontransferable. Seats are limited. Tickets: Fare shown is one-way. Round-trip purchase is required. Tickets must be purchased within 72 hours after reservations are made and no later than September, 8 2008. Travel Period: For all destinations: Travel may begin on or after January 6, 2009 and must be completed by March 27, 2009. Blackout Dates: None.

Fare Validity: Fare is valid only in the Economy (Coach) cabin via nonstop flights operated by Delta Air Lines. Minimum Stay: Saturday night. Maximum Stay: All travel must be completed by March 27, 2009. Taxes/Fees: A $3.50 Federal Excise Tax, Passenger Facility Charge(s) of up to $4.50 for each flight segment, and the September 11th Security Fee of up to $2.50 for each flight segment are not included. Fares do not include U.S. International Air Transportation Tax of up to $30.80 and U.S. and foreign user, inspection, security or other similarly based charges, fees or taxes of up to $299, depending on itinerary. Taxes and fees must be paid when the ticket is purchased. Baggage Charges: For travel within the United States/PR/U.S. Virgin Islands, no fee for 1 checked bag and $50 fee for second checked bag. For all other travel, no fee for 2 checked bags and $200 fee for third checked bag.

Allowances subject to size/weight limits. Contact a delta agent or visit delta.com for details.

Cancellations/Refunds/Changes: Tickets are nonrefundable except in accordance with Delta's cancellation policy. Fees may apply for downgrades/reissues and itinerary changes.

Contact a Delta agent or visit delta.com for details.

Miscellaneous: Fares, taxes, fees, rules, and offers are subject to change without notice. Other restrictions may apply. 2008 Delta Air Lines, Inc.

((M2 Communications Ltd disclaims all liability for information provided within M2 PressWIRE. Data supplied by named party/parties. Further information on M2 PressWIRE can be obtained at http://www.presswire.net on the world wide web. Inquiries to info@m2.com)).

Company / organization: Name: Delta Connection; NAICS: 481111; Name: Delta Air Lines Inc; Ticker: DAL; NAICS: 481111; DUNS: 00-692-4872

Publication title: M2 Presswire; Coventry

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 28, 2008

Publisher: Normans Media Ltd

Place of publication: Coventry

Country of publication: United Kingdom, Coventry

Publication subject: Communications

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 446164092

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/446164092?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright M2 Communications Ltd. 2008)

Last updated: 2010-06-30

Database: SciTech Premium Collection

Document 241 of 313

Dance, eat and party like a Brazilian next week

Author: Coley, Ward

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune Business News ; Washington [Washington]28 Aug 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Brazilian Week was conceived in 2007 by Tucson musician Bill Martinez, Sao Paulo gallery owner Roberto Guariglia and Pima Community College instructor Carolina Ibanez-Murphy. Eat Brazilian Tucson restaurants that will serve Brazilian dishes this week include Caffe Milano (46 W. Congress St.), Candela Peruvian Restaurant (5845 N. Oracle Road), FioRito's Italian Cuisine (2702 E. Grant Road) and Rio Cafe (2526 E. Grant Road).

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Aug. 28--Get ready to discover your inner Brazilian.

Brazilian Week, which starts Monday, is designed to introduce Tucsonans to the music and culture of South America's largest nation.

Brazilian Week was conceived in 2007 by Tucson musician Bill Martinez, Sao Paulo gallery owner Roberto Guariglia and Pima Community College instructor Carolina Ibanez-Murphy.

The three friends hope to make the festival an annual event.

For more information and the full schedule of activities, go to brazilianweek.net.

Dance Brazilian

--What: Brazilian samba workshop, with instructor Bardo Padilla.

--Where: The Amethyst Room at Pima Community College's Downtown campus, East Speedway and North Stone Avenue.

--When: Noon-1 p.m. Wednesday and next Thursday.

--Cost: Free.

Eat Brazilian

Tucson restaurants that will serve Brazilian dishes this week include Caffe Milano (46 W. Congress St.), Candela Peruvian Restaurant (5845 N. Oracle Road), FioRito's Italian Cuisine (2702 E. Grant Road) and Rio Cafe (2526 E. Grant Road).

To see what's cooking, go to the festival's Web site at brazilianweek.net.

Party Brazilian

--What: Brazilian Independence Carnival, celebrating independence from Portugal on Sept. 7, 1822. Dance to the sounds of Sambalanco, featuring percussionist Ari Colares.

--Where: Hotel Congress, 311 E. Congress St.

--When: 8 p.m. Sept. 6.

--Cost: $10 if you wear a costume, $15 if you don't and, yes, there will be costume prizes. Proceeds benefit Reveille Men's Chorus.

Watch Brazilian

--What: Brazilian Film Festival, featuring "Empress of Carnival" (Tuesday) and "The Year My Parents Went on Vacation" (Wednesday).

--Where: Pima Community College, Downtown Campus. Room CC-216.

--When: 6 p.m. both nights.

--Cost: Free.

Brazil by the numbers

187 million: Population.

5: Number of World Cup championships won by the soccer team.

15: Number of medals won in the Beijing Olympics.

77: Average temperature (degrees Fahrenheit).

26: Number of states.

5.3 million: Number of hectares of land dedicated to sugar cane farming (about 13.1 million acres).

Credit: The Arizona Daily Star, Tucson

Subject: Olympic games-2008; Motion picture festivals; Community colleges

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune Business News; Washington

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 28, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 464357915

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?u rl=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/464357915?accountid=4840

Copyright: To see more of The Arizona Daily Star, or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.azstarnet.com. Copyright (c) 2008, The Arizona Daily Star, Tucson Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Last updated: 2017-10-30

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 242 of 313

Spare Times: [Schedule][1]

Publication info: New York Times , Late Edition (East Coast); New York, N.Y. [New York, N.Y]29 Aug 2008: E.20.

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Abstract:

OVER AND UNDER THREE BRIDGES OF BROOKLYN, Sunday at noon, a seven-mile walk that includes passage over or under the Brooklyn, Manhattan and Williamsburg Bridges, meeting in Lower Manhattan, in the Municipal Building plaza, near Centre Street, opposite City Hall. A LABOR HISTORY TOUR, a walking tour that celebrates immigrant history and the labor movement in New York City, meeting Monday at 1 p.m. on the northeast corner of Washington Square North and Fifth Avenue.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

EVENTS

New York City

ANDREW GLOVER YOUTH PROGRAM STREET FESTIVAL, Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Fourth Avenue between 8th and 14th Streets, East Village.

BRAZILIAN DAY IN NEW YORK, a two-day festival in Midtown. Saturday at 11 a.m., "The Cleansing of 46th Street," in preparation for Brazilian Day, with music and dance. Sunday, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., the music, food and dance of Brazil, on Avenue of the Americas from 43rd to 57th Street and on 46th Street between Avenue of the Americas and Madison Avenue.

BROOKLYN LABOR DAY WALK, focusing on the history of labor and unions in the borough, with a stop at the West Indian American Labor Day Carnival, meeting Monday at 2 p.m. at the Marriott Hotel, Adams and Tillary Streets, downtown Brooklyn. Sponsored by Metro Tour Service. (718) 789-0430. $25.

CENTRAL PARK UNLOCKED: THE BLOCKHOUSE, Saturday at 1 p.m., a tour led by the Urban Park Rangers of the structure built for use as a fort during the War of 1812, meeting at the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, inside the park at 110th Street and Fifth Avenue. nyc.gov/parks/rangers.

FRIENDS OF DAG HAMMARSKJOLD PLAZA STREET FAIR, Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Second Avenue between 45th and 57th Streets, Manhattan.

GREENWICH VILLAGE CHAMBER OF COMMERCE FESTIVAL, Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Broadway, from Waverly Place to 14th Street.

HENRY ISOLA CROSS COUNTRY CLASSIC, a four-mile run, Sunday at 11:30 a.m. in Van Cortlandt Park, Broadway and 248th Street, the Bronx. Race-day registration fee, $7; $5 for 14 and younger. Sponsored by the New York Road Runners. (212) 860-4455; nyrr.org.

MARIO LANZA VOCAL COMPETITION, Monday, 3 to 5 p.m., on Mulberry and Hester Streets, Little Italy. Featuring more than 10 tenors. Part of the 2008 Summer in Little Italy Festival. littleitalynyconline.org; (212) 302-0551. Free.

MANHATTAN EAST COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION STREET FAIR, Monday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., on Lexington Avenue between 34th and 42nd Streets.

NIKE+ HUMAN RACE, a 10-kilometer walk to raise funds for several charities, Sunday at 6 p.m. on Randalls Island. New York City is one of 26 locations around the world to feature the walk, sponsored by Nike. nikeplus.com. Registration fee, $35, with proceeds to benefit several charities. NINTH COMMIES, GANGSTERS, GOONS, RADICALS, RAKES AND ROBBER BARONS: THE LABOR HERITAGE OF UNION SQUARE, a walking tour, meeting Saturday and Sunday at 2 p.m. and Monday at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. in front of the Lincoln statue in Union Square Park, 17th Street and Broadway. Sponsored by New York Talks and Walks. (888) 377-4455. $15, credit card; $20, cash.

OVER AND UNDER THREE BRIDGES OF BROOKLYN, Sunday at noon, a seven-mile walk that includes passage over or under the Brooklyn, Manhattan and Williamsburg Bridges, meeting in Lower Manhattan, in the Municipal Building plaza, near Centre Street, opposite City Hall. Sponsored by Shorewalkers. (212) 330-7686; shorewalkers.org. Donations accepted; free for members.

U.S. OPEN LIVE, outdoor broadcasts of the tennis competition on large screens at two Manhattan locations: Friday through Sept. 7 at Madison Square Park, 23rd through 26th Street, between Madison and Fifth Avenues. Sponsored by American Express; madisonsquarepark.org. Tuesday through Sept. 7 at Rockefeller Plaza, on 50th and 51st Streets, between Fifth Avenue and Avenue of the Americas; (212) 632-3975. Both daily, 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. Free.

WASHINGTON SQUARE OUTDOOR ART EXHIBITION, on the sidewalks north, south and east of Washington Square Park, in Greenwich Village. Saturday through Monday, noon to 6 p.m. Also Sept. 6 and 7. Rain or shine. washingtonsquareoutdoorartexhibit.org; (212) 982-6255.

WE BUILT NEW YORK: A LABOR HISTORY TOUR, a walking tour that celebrates immigrant history and the labor movement in New York City, meeting Monday at 1 p.m. on the northeast corner of Washington Square North and Fifth Avenue. Sponsored by Big Onion Walking Tours. (212) 439-1090. $15; $12 for 65+, students and members of the New-York Historical Society.

WEST INDIAN AMERICAN LABOR DAY CARNIVAL, Eastern Parkway, Utica Avenue to Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn. Monday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. wiadca.com.

Upstate New York

FIREWORKS AT RYE PLAYLAND, Exit 19, off Interstate 95, Rye. Friday and Saturday nights at 9:15. Free; parking, $5 on Friday, $7 on Saturday. (914) 813-7010; westchestergov.com.

GREEN CORN WEEKEND, Philipsburg Manor, 381 North Broadway, Sleepy Hollow. A celebration of American Indian culture, with music, dance, crafts and food. Saturday through Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Part of Historic Hudson Valley. (914) 631-8200; hudsonvalley.org. $12; $10 for students and 62+; $6 for 5 to 17; free for under 5 and members ($2 discount when ordering online and using the promotion code "maize").

HUDSON VALLEY SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL, at Boscobel House and Garden, 1601 Route 9D, Garrison. Friday at 8 p.m. and Sunday at 6 p.m., "Twelfth Night"; Saturday at 8 p.m., "Cymbeline," (845) 265-9575; hvshakespeare.org. $38 to $44; discounts for children, students and 65+ on selected days.

JAZZ AND BLUES CONCERT IN YONKERS, Yonkers Waterfront Amphitheater. Friday, 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Featuring the Brazilian singer Vanessa Falabella. yonkersdowntown.com. Free.

LABOR DAY CHESS TOURNAMENT, Monday, 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the John Jay Homestead State Historic Site, Main Barn, 400 Route 22, Katonah; registration begins at 9. Open to all players; participants should provide their own chessboards, chess sets and clocks. Also presented by the Max Pavey Chess Club. Hourly house tours from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (914) 232-5651; johnjayhomestead.org. The chess tournament is free, but the house tour is $7, $5 for 62+ and students; free for those 12 and younger.

LASDON LABOR DAY ANTIQUES FAIR, Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Lasdon Park and Arboretum, Route 35, Katonah. (914) 273-4667. $7, free for those under 13; proceeds benefit Friends of Westchester County Parks.

MUSIC UNDER THE STARS, Saturday night at 6:30, with a performance of the "1812" Overture by the United States Military Academy Concert Band and Jazz Knights, at West Point, Trophy Point Amphitheater, Route 9W North to Highland Falls. (845) 938-2617; www.usma.edu/band. Free, but concertgoers should call on the day to confirm; photo ID is required.

'THE PRODUCERS,' the Mel Brooks musical, at the Westchester Broadway Theater, 75 Clearbrook Road, Elmsford. Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m. (meal at 6:15); Sunday at 1:30 p.m. (meal at noon) and 7 p.m. (meal at 5:15). Through Nov. 15. (914) 592-2222; broadwaytheatre.com. $78, includes meal.

WOODSTOCK/NEW PALTZ ARTS & CRAFTS FAIR, Ulster County Fairgrounds, Libertyville Road, New Paltz. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Monday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (845) 679-8087; quailhollow.com. $8; $7 for 62+; $4.50 for 6 to 16.

WOODSTOCK MUSEUM FILM/VIDEO FESTIVAL, Woodstock Town Hall, 76 Tinker Street. Friday, 8 to 11:30 p.m.; Saturday, 2 to 11:45 p.m.; Sunday, 2 to midnight; (845) 246-0600; woodstockmuseum.org. Free, but donations accepted.

New Jersey

LABOR DAY BBQ AND MUSIC FEST, Westfall Winery, 141 Clove Road, Montague. Saturday and Sunday, noon to 4 p.m.(973) 293-3428; westfallwinery.com. $5.

OCEAN GROVE Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., an annual Craft Show on Ocean Pathway; free. Saturday at 7:30 p.m., a doo wop show in the Great Auditorium, Pilgrim and Ocean Pathway. (732) 775-0035; oceangrove.org. $10 to $30.

'PICTURING PRINCETON 1783: THE NATION'S CAPITAL,' an exhibition in celebration of the city as the nation's temporary capital, at the Morven Museum and Garden, 55 Stockton Street. Wednesdays through Fridays, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Saturdays and Sundays, noon to 4 p.m. Through Jan. 11. (609) 924-8144; historicmorven.org. $4 and $5, $4 for 60+; free for members.'PRIVATE LIVES,' the Noel Coward play, at the Kirby Shakespeare Theater, Drew University, 36 Madison Avenue, Madison. Friday at 8 p.m.; Saturday at 2 and 8 p.m.; Sunday at 2 p.m. (973) 408-5600; njshakespeare.org. $42 to $53.

SEAFARERS WEEKEND, Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at Historic Cold Spring Village, 720 Route 9 South, Cold Spring, north of Cape May. With nautical demonstrations, music and other activities. (609) 898-2300; hcsv.org. $8; $7 for 62+; $6 for children 3 to 12; free for children under 3.

RIVERFEST 2008, Bridge Street and Race Streets, Frenchtown. A celebration of the environment, with music, food and activities. Saturday through Monday, 11:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. frenchtownnj.org. Free admission.

SUMMER SEND-OFF CRAFT SHOW, along the beachfront, on Cape May Promenade, Cape May. Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (609) 884-9565.

Long Island

ANNUAL GREAT TOMATO TASTE-OFF, Quail Hill Farm, Deep Lane, Amagansett. Samplings of 50 varieties of tomatoes. Saturday, 9 a.m. to noon. (631) 283-3195, Ext. 10. Donation: $10; $5 for members; free for children under 12.

BAY STREET THEATER, Main and Bay Streets, Sag Harbor. Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 4 and 8 p.m., Sunday at 7 p.m. "Ain't Misbehavin," the musical with songs by Fats Waller. $65 or $75; 10 percent off for students and 65+. Comedy: Saturday, Jeffrey Ross; Sunday, Jamie Kennedy. Both at 11 p.m.; each, $50. (631) 725-9500; baystreet.org.

CAPITAL ONE BANK THEATER, 960 Brush Hollow Road, Westbury. Friday, Chris Isaak with James Hunter, rock; $56.50. Saturday, Acoustic Hot Tuna with David Lindley, blues/rock; $40. Both at 8 p.m. (516) 334-0800; livenation.com.

THE COMPLETE WORKS OF WILLIAM SHAKESPEARE (ABRIDGED), the comedy by the Reduced Shakespeare Company, at Mulford Farm, 10 James Lane, East Hampton. Friday through Sunday at 7:30 p.m. (631) 324-6850; easthamptonhistory.org. $18, $12 for 65+ and those under 13.

GREAT BONAC FOOT RACE 2008, Monday at 9 a.m. in East Hampton, with a 10-kilometer run at 9 a.m. and a four-kilometer walk at 9:20 a.m. Both begin at the Springs Firehouse, 179 Fort Pond Boulevard. omaclub.org. $25 ($10 for those 65+ and 17 and younger ).

JONES BEACH HIKE, a four-to-six-mile walk, meeting on Monday at noon in the waiting room of the Freeport station of the Long Island Rail Road. Sponsored by Shorewalkers. (212) 330-7686 or (516) 791-6453. Donations accepted; railroad fare and bus fare additional; walkers should bring along food, water and sunscreen.

LONG ISLAND MOZART FESTIVAL, at the Old Westbury Gardens, 71 Old Westbury Road, (877) 444-4488; limozartfestival.com. Friday at 8 p.m., "Mozart Under the Stars"; Saturday through Monday, concerts at 5 p.m.; youth ensemble performances are at 3 p.m., followed by dance performances at 4. Lawn tickets, $10, $8 for 62+,$5 for students and children 7 to 12; free for children 6 and younger. Tent tickets, $25.

OLDE TIME MUSIC WEEKEND AT OLD BETHPAGE VILLAGE RESTORATION, Round Swamp Road. Saturday through Monday, noon to 4 p.m. $10; $7 for 5 to 12, 60+ and volunteer firefighters; free for under 5. www.nassaucountyny.gov. (516) 572-8400.

62ND SHINNECOCK INDIAN POWWOW, Shinnecock Reservation, off Montauk Highway in Southampton. With food and performances. Friday, 3 to 10 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Monday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (631) 283-6143, Ext. 1; shinnecocknation.com. $10; $7 for 6 to 12 and 60+; free for 5 and under.

'THE VAGINA MONOLOGUES,' the play by Eve Ensler, at the Arena Players Second Stage Theater, 296 Route 109, East Farmingdale. Friday and Saturday night at 9 p.m.; Sunday at 3 p.m. Through Sept. 21. (516) 293-0674; arenaplayers.org. $18 Friday and Sunday ($16 for 65+ and students), $22 on Saturday.

Connecticut

GOSHEN FAIR, on Route 63, Goshen. Saturday and Sunday, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Monday, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (860) 491-3655; goshenfair.org. $7, free for children under 12.

PAT BENATAR AND NEIL GIRALDO, pop-rock, Sunday at 8 p.m. at the Klein Memorial Auditorium, 910 Fairfield Avenue, near Iranistan Avenue, Bridgeport. (203) 259-1036; fairfieldtheatre.org. $37 to $77.

'EVITA,' the musical by Tim Rice and Andrew Lloyd Webber, at the Ivoryton Playhouse, 103 Main Street, Ivoryton. Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m.; Sunday at 2 p.m. (860) 767-7318; ivorytonplayhouse.org. $35, $30 for 65+, $20 for students, $15 for those 12 and younger.

FISH AND SHIPS, Mystic Seaport, 75 Greenmanville Avenue, Exit 90 off Interstate 95, Mystic. With entertainment, games for children and food. Friday through Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Monday, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. (888) 973-2767 or (860) 572-0711; mysticseaport.org. Museum admission: $18.50; $16.50 for 65+; $13 for ages 6 to 17; free for 5 and under; food additional.

KID ROCK, AND LYNYRD SKYNYRD, WITH REV RUN, Sunday at 7 p.m., at the New England Dodge Music Center, 61 Savitt Way, Hartford. (860) 525-4500; ticketmaster.com. $23.50 to $69.

ROLEX VINTAGE FESTIVAL, Lime Rock Park, 60 White Hollow Road, Lakeville. With races, a swap meet and a car show. Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday, car show only, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.; Monday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. (800) 722-3577; limerock.com. Daily admission, $20 on Friday, $45 on Saturday and Monday; $25 on Sunday. Free parking and access to paddock. Spectators should provide their own seating.

SHAKESPEARE IN THE PARK, presented by the Elm Shakespeare Company, in Edgerton Park, 75 Cliff Street, New Haven. Friday and Sunday, "Hamlet." Saturday, Thornton Wilder's "Matchmaker." All performances at 7:30 p.m.; spectators should provide their own seating. (203) 393-1436; elmshakespeare.org. Suggested donation, $10.

31ST ANNUAL STRATTON FAXON NEW HAVEN ROAD RACE, 5-kilometer and 20-kilometer races, Monday at 8:40 a.m., beginning on the New Haven Green; preceded by a race for children at 8:15 a.m. (203) 710-2391; newhavenroadrace.org. Fees, $27 and $45 in advance, $30 and $50 on Monday; children's race, $8 in advance, $10 on Monday.

'TITANIC: THE ARTIFACT EXHIBITION,' with several hundred items retrieved from the ship, including a lifeboat arm, jewelry, money, perfume and clothing, at the XL Center, 1 Civic Center Plaza, Hartford. Wednesdays and Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Fridays and Saturdays, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sundays, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. $23, $21 for 60+, $19 for those 3 to 15. (860) 525-4500 or (860) 249-6333; xlcenter.com.

WOODSTOCK FAIR, at the Woodstock Fairgrounds, Routes 169 and 171, South Woodstock. With entertainment, food, rides and demonstrations. Friday through Sunday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Monday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. (860) 928-3246; woodstockfair.com. $12; $8 for 60+ Friday and Saturday only; free for children 10 and under.

Information about events to be considered for inclusion in Spare Times can be sent to weekend@nytimes.com.

Subject: War of 1812; Walking; Meetings; Competition

Location: New York

Publication title: New York Times, Late Edition (East Coast); New York, N.Y.

Pages: E.20

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 29, 2008

Section: E

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York, N.Y.

Country of publication: United States, New York, N.Y.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 03624331

CODEN: NYTIAO

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: Schedule

ProQuest document ID: 433907346

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/433907346?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright New York Times Company Aug 29, 2008

Last updated: 2017-11-15

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 243 of 313

More far-flung festival fun at Sado Island's Earth Celebration

Author: Eubank, Donald

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune Business News ; Washington [Washington]29 Aug 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Aug. 29--Niigata grannies munching on bento lunch boxes, tattooed Tokyo roughnecks pounding beers, an ex-military man in from London with two Shanghaiese kung-fu sisters: taiko (Japanese drum) troupe Kodo's annual Earth Celebration on Sado Island this past weekend drew an eclectic crowd.

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Aug. 29--Niigata grannies munching on bento lunch boxes, tattooed Tokyo roughnecks pounding beers, an ex-military man in from London with two Shanghaiese kung-fu sisters: taiko (Japanese drum) troupe Kodo's annual Earth Celebration on Sado Island this past weekend drew an eclectic crowd.

This year the biggest addition to the audience were the Brazilian-Japanese and their friends who came out to see the Afro-Brazilian culture group Olodum.

Rather than play the festival's usual series of smaller sets, on Saturday night Olodum told the audience to stand up -- although all dancing is supposed to take place in designated areas -- and launched into a two-hour carnival of samba-reggae. Those who came for a heavy dose of Brazil jumped up and never sat back down.

At the end, Kodo members played two short numbers, and the next day the two groups came together several times, but it was clear that Olodum were at a loss with the on-the-stage, off-the-stage scheduling of a regular EC performance. Kodo and Olodum share similarities in their community- outreach programs and in instrumentation: Olodum's surdo bass drums and high-pitched repique mirror Kodo's mid range of daiko drums. But while the Brazilians find a rhythm and work it long and hard to create a party jam, the Japanese have a stuttering start- stop, soft-loud dynamic that is more about stage theatrics than getting a crowd dancing.

This year's choice of guest was made in celebration of the 100th anniversary of Japanese immigration to Brazil. One can only imagine the cultural surprises when Japanese first arrived there: These two countries hardly seem like bedfellows. But by Sunday's final set, Kodo and Olodum had found common ground, and the whole crowd stood up once again to dance to the two playing in collaboration.

Credit: Japan Times, Tokyo

Company: Kodo Olodum

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune Business News; Washington

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 29, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 464351540

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/464351540?accountid=4840

Copyright: To see more of the Japan Times or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.japantimes.co.jp.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/. Copyright (c) 2008, Japan Times, Tokyo Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Last updated: 2017-10-31

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 244 of 313

Sounds of Little Brazil, Bursting With Pride

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Aug 31, 2008.

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Abstract:

For the first time since it began 24 years ago, the Brazilian Day festival, a joyous occasion recalling a centuries-old ritual, was held over two days, on Saturday and Sunday.

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They stood half in awe, half in confusion on Saturday on a stretch of 46th Street in Manhattan known as Little Brazil, taking in the unlikely scene in front of them: 20 women in white turbans, hoop skirts and flowing tops dancing, chanting and washing the pavement with a mix of water, perfume and petals poured from tall ceramic pots.

“Is it a wedding?” asked John O’Shea, 66, a visitor from Marion, Ohio.

“I don’t see a groom,” his wife, Kathy, replied, furrowing her brows.

Moving to the thumping sound of percussion instruments with names like timbau, surdo and tan tan, the women were performing a centuries-old ritual known in Brazil as lavagem (pronounced lah-VAH-zhen), or cleansing, which takes place every year in January on the steps of Bonfim Church, in the historic center of Brazil’s first capital, Salvador, in the state of Bahia.

There, the ritual celebrates the syncretism between Brazil’s largest religion, Catholicism, and Candomblé, the religion brought to Salvador by the African slaves who first landed at its ports in the mid-16th century. Here, it ushered in the largest Brazilian celebration abroad, the Brazilian Day festival, which for the first time since it began 24 years ago was held on two days, Saturday and Sunday.

For the uninformed, the ritual was another of the extraordinary spectacles offered by a city where hundreds of languages, ethnicities and cultures converge. For the knowledgeable yet uninitiated, like Tom Giblin, 46, who was born in Ireland, lives in New York and has been to Salvador, but never to its lavagem, it was tantalizing.

“I really must go back now, to see how it’s like over there,” Mr. Giblin said as he followed the women and musicians making their way east on 46th Street, parts of which were closed to traffic.

In Salvador, the procession covers a nearly five-mile-long route, ending at Bonfim Church, where the women, known as baianas, wash its front steps while singing hymns that praise Jesus Christ and Oxalá (pronounced oh-shah-LAH), one of Candomblé’s deities. It attracts more than a million people and in recent times has been regarded as an overture to the festivities leading to Carnaval.

In Manhattan, the parade covered two blocks on 46th Street, from Avenue of the Americas to Madison Avenue; drew maybe a few hundred people; and had no religious overtones. Instead, the idea was simply to bring “another piece of Brazil to the Brazilian community in New York,” said Silvana Magda, who conceived and organized the event.

In 2006, the census estimated that there were about 350,000 Brazilians living in the United States, and Brazilian consular officials say that most of them live in the New York metropolitan region, Florida and Massachusetts. But given that many are in the country illegally, the officials said they believed the actual number to be much higher. One of the chief sponsors of the Brazilian Day festival, Globo International, the cable-television arm of Brazil’s TV Globo abroad, has at least 420,000 viewers in the United States, based on the number of households that subscribe to its Portuguese-language services.

More evidence of the community’s size lies, perhaps, in the number of people who organizers say attended the festival’s big day on Sunday, about one million, to watch three of Brazil’s most popular musical acts perform from a stage on Avenue of the Americas, near 44th Street.

The festival, however, had humble beginnings. In 1984, to celebrate Brazil’s independence, on Sept. 7, a group of businessmen placed a booth on 46th Street, between Fifth Avenue and Avenue of the Americas, to sell Brazilian food and showcase some of the country’s art. At the time, Brazilian-owned stores lined 46th Street, selling items like Crest toothpaste, Nike sneakers and Walkmans to Brazilian tourists who came to New York to buy products that import tariffs made too expensive to buy back home.

“As usual, when more than five Brazilians get together, there’s samba,” said one of those businessmen and the festival’s president, João de Matos, whose travel agency is still in the same place that it was back then, at 16 West 46th Street.

Two years later, armed with a permit, Mr. Matos built a small stage at the spot where local bands would perform for several years to come. But each year, the crowds grew bigger, and the stage larger and larger, until it had to be moved a roomier location on Avenue of the Americas, near 46th Street, and then two blocks south.

The cleansing of 46th Street was a new addition to the festival’s lineup. This time around, none of the baianas, as women who are born in Bahia are known, were actually from Bahia. There were baianas from Trinidad and Panama, Chicago and Poughkeepsie, N.Y., and from the Brazilian cities of São Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, like Luana Damasceno, 27, and Netty Oliveira-Pease, 42, who said they had never attended the cleansing procession in Salvador.

“But we live in New York,” Ms. Damasceno said. “And like good New Yorkers, we play the part.”

Subject: Christianity; Festivals

Location: Ireland Chicago Illinois United States--US New York Massachusetts Ohio Americas Brazil Florida Rio de Janeiro Brazil Panama

Company / organization: Name: Nike Inc; NAICS: 315220, 315240, 316210, 339920, 424340

Identifier / keyword: Brazil Carnival (Pre-Lenten) Santos, Fernanda Globo Manhattan (NYC) Television RELIGION AND CHURCHES International Trade and World Market Jesus Christ NIKE Inc Gospel Music Ohio women Christians and Christianity Music Perfumes and Fragrances Salvador (Brazil) Bahia (Brazil) Little Brazil (NYC) Slavery Africa Customs (Tariff) Ireland New York State AVENUE OF THE AMERICAS (NYC) United States Florida Massachusetts Portugal Trinidad and Tobago Panama Chicago (Ill) Dutchess County (NY) Rio de Janeiro (Brazil)

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 31, 2008

Section: nyregion

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals- -United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2221508031

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2221508031?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-08

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 245 of 313

August 31, 2008 (Page 58 of 254)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]31 Aug 2008: 58.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 49

Issue: 128

First page: 58

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 31, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249018860

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249018860?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Aug 31, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 246 of 313

GM TAKES THE LEAD SOUTH FLORIDA'S BIGGEST COMPANY IS AN AMERICAN AUTOMAKER PUSHING TO EXPAND ITS GLOBAL REACH

Author: Hemlock, Doreen; Baldomir, Luca

Publication info: South Florida Sun - Sentinel ; Fort Lauderdale, Fla. [Fort Lauderdale, Fla]31 Aug 2008: D.1.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

"We're just 5 to 6 million people living in South Florida, but we have almost 1,200 multinational offices here managing more than $200 billion in sales - an amount larger than the economies of many countries," said Ken Roberts, WorldCity's chief executive. "There are very significant people here playing hugely important roles for their companies, and they're largely unheralded."

"One of the lessons you learn in these markets is patience," she said. "We're very optimistic for the future."

Photo(s); [Maureen Kempston-Darkes], head of the General Motors office for Latin America, Africa and the Mideast division, shows off a new Chevrolet Corvette in the parking lot of the GM office in Miramar. GM sales are booming for the division as those economies grow faster than in the United States.cristobal herrera, sun sentinel

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Note: Informational box at end of text.

Pop quiz: Of the nearly 1,200 multinational companies with offices in South Florida, which one manages the most revenues from a local base?

Hint: It's not Carnival Corp. or Office Depot, which both keep world headquarters in South Florida.

The answer: General Motors' Latin America, Africa and Middle East region, run out of Miramar.

While GM slumps in North America, its South Florida office oversees a booming business in a region that's now its most profitable. And the woman who heads up the operation, Maureen Kempston-Darkes, has been ranked by Forbes magazine among the top women in international business.

GM saw such strong sales last year in the region it runs from Miramar - up 29 percent to $18.9 billion - that those revenues topped the total for Office Depot, which held the top spot in 2006, according to a study by WorldCity Media.

The Coral Gables publisher studied revenues managed from South Florida to show the area's weight in the global economy as a trade gateway.

"We're just 5 to 6 million people living in South Florida, but we have almost 1,200 multinational offices here managing more than $200 billion in sales - an amount larger than the economies of many countries," said Ken Roberts, WorldCity's chief executive. "There are very significant people here playing hugely important roles for their companies, and they're largely unheralded."

Under the radar

Kempston-Darkes and her Miramar office may be among the least known of South Florida's powerhouses.

The Canadian lawyer said GM opened its South Florida office in 1991 to be closer to Latin America and tap its diverse work force. It grouped several emerging markets in one region for their similarities: a preference for small vehicles and a history of volatility.

Nowadays, the developing region is performing better than GM's North American market.

Countries in the region are booming, thanks to sales of petroleum, minerals, metals, soybeans and other commodities to Asia and beyond. Many governments also are controlling inflation and boosting stability in places such as Brazil, she said.

Buyers are flush with cash. GM is capitalizing on decades of experience in the area, a broad network of factories and dealers, its strong Chevrolet brand and operations led by "local nationals, empowered to make decisions, who know their countries," Kempston-Darkes said.

GM sales in the region should set a record this year, topping $20 billion, up four-fold from 2003. The region now accounts for 13 percent of GM's worldwide sales, up from 5 percent when Kempston-Darkes took the helm in 2002.

"We are No. 1 in vehicle sales in our region," she said, citing top competitors as Fiat, Volkswagen and Toyota.

U.S. slump

The upbeat news contrasts with GM's crisis in North America, its top market. Amid an economic slump, cash-strapped U.S. customers are quickly shifting preferences from larger vehicles to smaller, more fuel-efficient ones or simply holding off on purchases.

"We have capabilities to respond to that, but you can't do it overnight," said Kempston-Darkes.

The drag on GM from North America is so severe that some analysts predict the company may reorganize in U.S. bankruptcy court.

But in Latin America, growth will continue this year, "but not as substantial as past years," said Guido Vildozo, senior market analyst for the South America automotive industry at Global Insight, an economic forecasting firm in Waltham, Mass.

Brazil remains a bright spot. GM has cut costs through automation, boosted prices and is increasing production there, Vildozo said.

South America's largest nation also serves as an engineering center. GM brought Brazilian engineers to Detroit to help develop flex-fuel vehicles for the U.S. market. Brazilians pioneered flex-fuel engines, which can switch from ethanol to gasoline.

The company also named Brazil one of its five development centers worldwide along with the United States, Germany, South Korea and Australia, said Kempston-Darkes. To encourage growth, GM is investing more than $200 million in Brazil alone this year to serve the region.

"One of the lessons you learn in these markets is patience," she said. "We're very optimistic for the future."

INFORMATIONAL BOX:

General Motors Latin America, Africa and Middle East

37,000

Employees, including 65 employed at the company's Miramar headquarters

$18.9 billion

revenues in 2007

$1.3 billion

in profits before taxes in 2007

Save gas

For fuel- saving tips and to find out where to get the best gas prices in your area, go to SunSentinel .com/ helpteam

Doreen Hemlock can be reached at dhemlock@ sun-sentinel.com or 305-810-5009.

Credit: By Doreen Hemlock and Luca Baldomir Staff writers

Illustration

Photo(s); Caption: Maureen Kempston-Darkes, head of the General Motors office for Latin America, Africa and the Mideast division, shows off a new Chevrolet Corvette in the parking lot of the GM office in Miramar. GM sales are booming for the division as those economies grow faster than in the United States.cristobal herrera, sun sentinel

Company / organization: Name: General Motors Corp; Ticker: GM; NAICS: 336399, 336111, 333415; DUNS: 00-535-6613

Publication title: South Florida Sun - Sentinel; Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

First page: D.1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 31, 2008

Section: Business

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 389954375

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=htt ps://search.proquest.com/docview/389954375?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by the Sun-Sentinel)

Last updated: 2017-11-10

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 247 of 313

GM division leads South Florida business with $18.9 billion in sales: South Florida's biggest company is an American automaker pushing to expand its global reach

Author: Hemlock, Doreen; Baldomir, Lucia

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune Business News ; Washington [Washington]31 Aug 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

[...] in Latin America, growth will continue this year, "but not as substantial as past years," said Guido Vildozo, senior market analyst for the South America automotive industry at Global Insight, an economic forecasting firm in Waltham, Mass. General Motors Latin America, Africa and Middle East 37,000 Employees, including 65 employed at the company's Miramar headquarters $18.9 billion revenues in 2007 $1.3 billion in profits before taxes in 2007 Save gas For fuel- saving tips and to find out where to get the best gas prices in your area, go to SunSentinel .com/ helpteam Multinational offices in South Florida Of the roughly 1,200 multinational companies with offices in South Florida, none has a local office managing more revenues than General Motors' in Miramar.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

Aug. 31--Pop quiz: Of the nearly 1,200 multinational companies with offices in South Florida, which one manages the most revenues from a local base?

Hint: It's not Carnival Corp. or Office Depot, which both keep world headquarters in South Florida.

The answer: General Motors' Latin America, Africa and Middle East region, run out of Miramar.

While GM slumps in North America, its South Florida office oversees a booming business in a region that's now its most profitable. And the woman who heads up the operation, Maureen Kempston-Darkes, has been ranked by Forbes magazine among the top women in international business.

GM saw such strong sales last year in the region it runs from Miramar -- up 29 percent to $18.9 billion -- that those revenues topped the total for Office Depot, which held the top spot in 2006, according to a study by WorldCity Media.

The Coral Gables publisher studied revenues managed from South Florida to show the area's weight in the global economy as a trade gateway.

"We're just 5 to 6 million people living in South Florida, but we have almost 1,200 multinational offices here managing more than $200 billion in sales -- an amount larger than the economies of many countries," said Ken Roberts, WorldCity's chief executive. "There are very significant people here playing hugely important roles for their companies, and they're largely unheralded."

Under the radar

Kempston-Darkes and her Miramar office may be among the least known of South Florida's powerhouses.

The Canadian lawyer said GM opened its South Florida office in 1991 to be closer to Latin America and tap its diverse work force. It grouped several emerging markets in one region for their similarities: a preference for small vehicles and a history of volatility.

Nowadays, the developing region is performing better than GM's North American market.

Countries in the region are booming, thanks to sales of petroleum, minerals, metals, soybeans and other commodities to Asia and beyond. Many governments also are controlling inflation and boosting stability in places such as Brazil, she said.

Buyers are flush with cash. GM is capitalizing on decades of experience in the area, a broad network of factories and dealers, its strong Chevrolet brand and operations led by "local nationals, empowered to make decisions, who know their countries," Kempston-Darkes said.

GM sales in the region should set a record this year, topping $20 billion, up four-fold from 2003. The region now accounts for 13 percent of GM's worldwide sales, up from 5 percent when Kempston-Darkes took the helm in 2002.

"We are No. 1 in vehicle sales in our region," she said, citing top competitors as Fiat, Volkswagen and Toyota.

U.S. slump

The upbeat news contrasts with GM's crisis in North America, its top market. Amid an economic slump, cash-strapped U.S. customers are quickly shifting preferences from larger vehicles to smaller, more fuel-efficient ones or simply holding off on purchases.

"We have capabilities to respond to that, but you can't do it overnight," said Kempston-Darkes.

The drag on GM from North America is so severe that some analysts predict the company may reorganize in U.S. bankruptcy court.

But in Latin America, growth will continue this year, "but not as substantial as past years," said Guido Vildozo, senior market analyst for the South America automotive industry at Global Insight, an economic forecasting firm in Waltham, Mass.

Brazil remains a bright spot. GM has cut costs through automation, boosted prices and is increasing production there, Vildozo said.

South America's largest nation also serves as an engineering center. GM brought Brazilian engineers to Detroit to help develop flex-fuel vehicles for the U.S. market. Brazilians pioneered flex-fuel engines, which can switch from ethanol to gasoline.

The company also named Brazil one of its five development centers worldwide along with the United States, Germany, South Korea and Australia, said Kempston-Darkes. To encourage growth, GM is investing more than $200 million in Brazil alone this year to serve the region.

"One of the lessons you learn in these markets is patience," she said. "We're very optimistic for the future."

Doreen Hemlock can be reached at dhemlock@ sun-sentinel.com or 305-810-5009.

General Motors Latin America, Africa and Middle East

37,000

Employees, including 65 employed at the company's Miramar headquarters

$18.9 billion

revenues in 2007

$1.3 billion

in profits before taxes in 2007

Save gas

For fuel- saving tips and to find out where to get the best gas prices in your area, go to SunSentinel .com/ helpteam

Multinational offices in South Florida

Of the roughly 1,200 multinational companies with offices in South Florida, none has a local office managing more revenues than General Motors' in Miramar.

Office Type of

headquarters Office

location Business 2007

Revenues

GM Latin America,

Africa and the Middle East Regional Miramar Autos $18.9 billion

Office Depot Global Delray Beach Office supplies $15.5 billion

World Fuel Services Global Miami Fuel distribution $13.7 billion

Carnival Corp. Global Miami Cruise ships $13 billion

Source: WorldCity Media; Company reports; Sun Sentinel research

Credit: South Florida Sun-Sentinel

Subject: Vehicles; Federal courts; Emerging markets; Economic forecasting; Automobile sales; Automobile dealers

Location: South Florida

Company / organization: Name: General Motors Corp; NAICS: 333415, 336111, 336399

Classification: 8680: Transportation equipment industry; 3100: Capital & debt management; 9190: United States

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune Business News; Washington

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 31, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 464332026

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/464332026?accountid=4840

Copyright: To see more of The South Florida Sun-Sentinel or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.sun-sentinel.com/. Copyright (c) 2008, South Florida Sun-Sentin el Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Last updated: 2017-10-30

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 248 of 313

BRIEF: Asakusa sways to samba in annual carnival

Author: Nagata, Kazuaki

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune Business News ; Washington [Washington]31 Aug 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

While many women wore showy colorful bikinis with big feathers on their head and back, costumes varied widely between the different teams.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

Aug. 31--Sing a song. Play the music. Dance to the rhythm -- it's a samba extravaganza.

About 4,700 people participated Saturday in the 28th Asakusa Samba Carnival, turning Tokyo's Asakusa district into a little Brazil. For many samba enthusiasts, the carnival, which has become an Asakusa tradition, is something special.

Akira Iizuka, a member of samba organization G.R.E.S. Saude in Yokohama, said his group participates in other events, but this is the biggest.

"The Asakusa Samba Carnival is where people can perform a real Brazilian-style carnival," said Iizuka, who was taking part in his eighth Asakusa festival.

The carnival featured contests for two leagues with a total of 20 teams.

The teams paraded from Umamichi Dori to the end of Kaminarimon Dori in front of thousands of people.

The dancers prepared their own costumes and themes.

While many women wore showy colorful bikinis with big feathers on their head and back, costumes varied widely between the different teams.

Members of one team dressed as chefs and many teams used decorated cars.

The Asakusa Samba Carnival started in 1981 after Taito Ward invited over the winning group of that year's Rio Carnival in Brazil.

Credit: Japan Times, Tokyo

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune Business News; Washington

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Aug 31, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 464333553

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/464333553?accountid=4840

Copyright: To see more of the Japan Times or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.japantimes.co.jp.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/. Copyright (c) 2008, Japan Times, Tokyo Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Last updated: 2017-10-30

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 249 of 313

Breno Mello, 76, Star of ‘Orpheus,’ Dies

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Sep 5, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Mr. Mello was known for his title role in the classic 1959 Brazilian movie “Black Orpheus,” based on the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, but set amid the frenzy of Rio’s carnival.

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Full text:

Breno Mello, the handsome, sculptured leading man in the classic 1959 Brazilian movie “Black Orpheus,” died on July 14 in Porto Alegre, Brazil, his hometown. He was 76.

The death was confirmed on Friday by Priscilla Barroso, a press officer in the Brazilian Embassy in Washington, who said Brazilian newspapers reported that he was found alone in his home. His death was not reported in English-language papers.

Mr. Mello played the title role in what, in Portuguese, is called “Orfeu Negro,” directed by Marcel Camus and based on the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice. A trolley-car motorman and gifted guitarist, amid the joyous frenzy of Rio’s carnival, he becomes enthralled with the beautiful, doomed Eurydice, played by Marpessa Dawn.

Against a backdrop of working-class Rio, with shanties on the hills, the lovers sway in a provocative samba among the crowds. But Eurydice is stalked by a man in a skeleton costume. Eventually, Orfeu finds her in the morgue. In the end, bearing her body in his arms, he falls to his death from a cliff. His guitar, standing in for the lyre of Orpheus, is taken up by one of the street urchins who follow him as a sort of Greek chorus.

Reviewing the film for The New York Times in 1959, Bosley Crowther called him “a handsome, virile Orpheus who glistens when covered with sweat,” but denigrated his performance. “Black Orpheus” became renowned for its soundtrack by the bossa nova legends Antonio Carlos Jobim and Luiz Bonfá, with songs like “Manhã de Carnaval” and “A Felicidade.” It won the Palme d’Or at the 1959 Cannes Film Festival and the Academy Award and the Golden Globe for best foreign film in 1960.

Mr. Mello was born in Porto Alegre in 1931. He had played for for Fluminense and Gremio, , major professional soccer teams in Brazil, when Mr. Camus spotted him on a beach and asked him star in “Black Orpheus.”

Married twice with five children, he later played roles in five less successful films, but returned to soccer because, he said, the Brazilian film industry was not rich enough to support him. He later sold advertising handouts in his home city, he told Agence France-Presse.

Subject: Motion picture festivals

Location: Brazil New York France

Company / organization: Name: New York Times Co; NAICS: 511110, 511120, 515112, 515120; Name: Cannes Film Festival; NAICS: 512131, 711320

Identifier / keyword: Hevesi, Dennis Brazil Gospel Music New York Times Golden Globes (Awards) Black Orpheus (Movie) Agence France-Presse MOTION PICTURES Music Crowther, Bosley Carnival (Pre-Lenten) Jobim, Antonio Carlos Festivals Deaths (Obituaries) Washington (DC) Cannes International Film Festival Portugal Mello, Breno Greece

Publicationtitle: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Sep 5, 2008

Section: movies

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2221528941

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2221528941?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-08

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 250 of 313

September 19, 2008 (Page 40 of 107)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]19 Sep 2008: 40.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 267

First page: 40

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Sep 19, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2226196684

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2226196684?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Sep 19, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-16

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 251 of 313

Moore Capital Management LLC 2Q 13F: Largest Purchases

Publication info: Dow Jones Institutional News ; New York [New York]19 Sep 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

DJ CFA SOURCE: SEC 13F-HR
FILER: Moore Capital Management LLC
QUARTER ENDED: 06/30/2008
SEC RECEIVED: 08/14/2008

Below are up to 200 of Moore Capital Management LLC's largest purchases ordered by number of shares bought during the three months ended June 30, 2008.

Company NameValueHoldingsChange
LEHMAN BROTHERS HOLDINGS INC$100,238,6005,060,0004,840,464
JPMORGAN CHASE & CO INC COM$148,510,8354,328,5003,228,500
BARCLAYS BK PFD 8.125%49$78,688,0003,200,0003,200,000
PETROHAWK ENERGY CORP COM$147,219,4903,179,0002,879,000
TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR MFG CO LT$21,819,9942,010,0842,010,084
QUALCOMM INC COM$102,494,7002,310,0001,960,000
PHILIP MORRIS INTERNATIONAL IN$90,496,6061,832,2861,832,286
SOTHEBYS CL A$46,996,6141,782,2001,782,200
NVIDIA CORP COM$29,952,0001,600,0001,600,000
HUNTSMAN CORP COM$16,025,4021,405,7371,405,737
HEWLETT PACKARD CO COM$51,946,7501,175,0001,175,000
MOTOROLA INC COM$8,074,0001,100,0001,100,000
FORMFACTOR INC COM$18,430,0001,000,0001,000,000
COMCAST CORP CL A$22,069,6981,163,400963,400
TYSON FOODS INC CL A$14,233,921952,739952,739
MARATHON OIL CORP COM$49,276,500950,000950,000
ELECTRONIC ARTS INC COM$98,856,7502,225,000925,000
NCR CORP COM$22,680,000900,000900,000
TIME WARNER INC COM$18,130,0001,225,000865,000
GOLD FIELDS LTD ADR$9,867,000780,000780,000
HOVNANIAN ENTERPRISES INC CL$4,110,000750,000750,000
INFORMATICA CORP COM$34,592,0002,300,000700,000
FOMENTO ECON MEX (FEMSA) ADR$31,174,350685,000685,000
ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD C$13,931,400620,000620,000
DATA DOMAIN INC COM$13,998,000600,000600,000
HOLOGIC INC COM$13,080,000600,000600,000
SIRIUS XM RADIO INC COM$10,803,9385,627,051594,237
SANDRIDGE ENERGY INC COM$71,896,9141,113,300577,867
GOODRICH PETROLEUM CORP COM$43,533,000525,000525,000
COMSTOCK RESOURCES INC COM$44,325,750525,000525,000
CENTEX CORP COM$6,989,502522,775522,775
MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL INC CL$13,644,800520,000520,000
THORNBURG MORTGAGE INC COM$101,000500,000500,000
PACTIV CORP COM$10,615,000500,000500,000
ANHEUSER BUSCH COS INC COM$29,817,600480,000480,000
MICROSOFT CORP COM$14,709,019534,679476,664
GRUPO AEROPORTUARIO PACIFICO A$13,216,500450,000450,000
EMC CORP/MA COM$13,955,500950,000450,000
COMMUNITY HEALTH SYSTEMS INC$14,841,000450,000450,000
COCA COLA CO COM$46,782,000900,000450,000
GENERAL ELECTRIC CO COM$11,343,250425,000425,000
CARNIVAL CORP PAIRED CTF$13,843,200420,000420,000
EVERGREEN SOLAR INC COM$3,999,548412,750412,750
NRG ENERGY INC COM$15,860,902369,718369,718
ALLEGHENY TECHNOLOGIES INC CO$20,623,512347,900347,900
BANK OF AMERICA CORP COM$11,372,933476,453327,960
SMURFIT-STONE CONTAINER CORP$1,322,750325,000325,000
ANNALY CAPITAL MANAGEMENT INC$4,653,000300,000300,000
HAYES LEMMERZ INTERNATIONAL C$852,000300,000300,000
MEDCO HEALTH SOLUTIONS INC CO$14,160,000300,000300,000
PATRIOT COAL CORP COM$22,993,500300,000300,000
CELGENE CORP COM$19,161,000300,000300,000
HEALTH NET INC COM$9,624,000400,000290,000
PETROBRAS ADR NVTG$34,480,250595,000282,200
MASCO CORP COM$4,325,750275,000275,000
ALTRIA GROUP INC COM$21,382,4001,040,000250,000
EXCO RESOURCES INC COM$9,227,500250,000250,000
BAXTER INTERNATIONAL INC COM$15,985,000250,000250,000
HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC C$12,318,600245,000245,000
ARCH COAL INC COM$38,265,300510,000210,000
MASSEY ENERGY CORP COM$31,345,500334,352209,352
ST JUDE MEDICAL INC COM$8,176,000200,000200,000
SPDR SERIES KBW BANK$5,730,000200,000200,000
APPLE INC COM$33,488,000200,000200,000
CHARLES RIVER LABS INTL INC C$12,784,000200,000200,000
BEBE STORES INC COM$1,922,000200,000200,000
GOODYEAR TIRE & RUBBER CO COM$5,663,218317,623197,623
ULTRAPETROL BAHAMAS LTD COM$19,068,4641,512,170185,000
VALERO ENERGY CORP COM$7,412,400180,000180,000
BECTON DICKINSON & CO COM$14,227,500175,000175,000
ZIMMER HOLDINGS INC COM$11,908,750175,000175,000
KB HOME COM$2,962,750175,000175,000
US CONCRETE INC COM$809,200170,000170,000
EMBRAER (EMP BRASIL AERO) ADR$4,107,500155,000155,000
PULTE HOMES INC COM$1,444,500150,000150,000
WALTER INDUSTRIES INC COM$27,192,500250,000150,000
LABORATORY CORP OF AMERICA CO$10,444,500150,000150,000
TELEFONOS DE MEXICO SAB ADR L$3,552,000150,000150,000
GENENTECH INC COM$11,385,000150,000150,000
TERRA INDUSTRIES INC COM$41,947,500850,000150,000
NORDIC AMERICAN TANKER SHIPPIN$5,823,000150,000150,000
AMERICAN EAGLE OUTFITTERS INC$2,044,500150,000150,000
ALPHA NATURAL RESOURCES INC C$15,643,500150,000150,000
CROWN HOLDINGS INC COM$3,898,500150,000150,000
ABBOTT LABS COM$7,945,500150,000150,000
WEYERHAEUSER CO COM$12,273,600240,000140,000
ASML HOLDING NV NY SH$15,616,000640,000140,000
PENNEY J C INC COM$5,076,971139,900139,900
CRESUD SA ADR$11,960,903804,906127,899
COLFAX CORP COM$3,136,250125,000125,000
BAKER HUGHES INC COM$10,480,800120,000120,000
ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO CL A$7,521,600120,000120,000
INVERNESS MEDICAL INNOVATIONS$4,975,500150,000120,000
UNITED TECHNOLOGIES CORP COM$7,095,500115,000115,000
PRIDE INTERNATIONAL INC COM$5,438,350115,000115,000
EXXON MOBIL CORP COM$9,981,075113,254113,254
TJX COMPANIES INC COM$3,556,110113,000113,000
GOOGLE INC CL A$56,326,940107,000107,000
TOYOTA MOTOR CORP ADR$9,870,000105,000105,000
LEAP WIRELESS INTERNATIONAL IN$4,348,816100,737100,737
LIMELIGHT NETWORKS INC COM$7,640,0002,000,000100,000
CHEVRON CORP COM$9,913,000100,000100,000
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE INC CL$6,147,000100,000100,000
PRUDENTIAL FINANCIAL INC COM$5,974,000100,000100,000
ALLERGAN INC COM$5,205,000100,000100,000
COSAN LTD CL A$7,508,787593,580100,000
PERFECT WORLD CO LTD ADR B$2,249,10090,00090,000
FEDERAL MOGUL CORP CL A$1,357,96984,18984,189
ANGLOGOLD ASHANTI LTD ADR$2,783,08082,00082,000
TRANSOCEAN INC COM$12,201,10580,06580,065
ALLEGHENY ENERGY INC COM$4,008,80080,00080,000
RESEARCH IN MOTION LTD COM$8,767,50075,00075,000
PEABODY ENERGY CORP COM$19,811,250225,00075,000
MERITAGE HOMES CORP COM$1,137,75075,00075,000
CLEVELAND CLIFFS INC COM$8,700,87073,00073,000
BCE INC COM$2,182,58762,70062,700
EQUITABLE RESOURCES INC COM$4,206,37660,90960,909
REYNOLDS AMERICAN INC COM$10,034,050215,00060,000
FPL GROUP INC COM$5,574,30085,00060,000
MACYS INC COM$1,165,20060,00060,000
MGIC INVESTMENT CORP (WI) COM$313,53551,31551,315
BRONCO DRILLING CO INC COM$919,00050,00050,000
MARKET VECTORS ETF TR COAL ET$2,900,00050,00050,000
CONSOL ENERGY INC COM$28,092,500250,00050,000
CALPINE CORP COM NEW$1,128,00050,00050,000
AIRCASTLE LTD COM$358,76242,65942,659
LENNAR CORP CL A$450,08936,47436,474
AQUA AMERICA INC COM$575,36736,02836,028
HERTZ GLOBAL HOLDINGS INC COM$338,69835,28135,281

(MORE TO FOLLOW)

September 19, 2008 09:05 ET (13:05 GMT)

Subject: Energy; Project finance; Coal

Location: United States--US

Company / organization: Name: Moore Capital Management LLC; NAICS: 523920, 525990; Name: AngloGold Ashanti Ltd; NAICS: 212221; Name: ASML; NAICS: 333242; Name: Value Holdings; NAICS: 551112

Publication title: Dow Jones Institutional News; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Sep 19, 2008

Publisher: Dow Jones & Company Inc

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2243968683

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2243968683?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Dow Jones & Company Inc Sep 19, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-21

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 252 of 313

Moore Capital Management 2Q 13F: Holdings As Of June 30

Publication info: Dow Jones Institutional News ; New York [New York]19 Sep 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

DJ CFA SOURCE: SEC 13F-HR
FILER: Moore Capital Management LLC
QUARTER ENDED: 06/30/2008
SEC RECEIVED: 08/14/2008

The following sets forth up to 200 of the largest holdings of Moore Capital Management LLC in terms of value as of June 30, 2008, according to a Form 13F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in August.

As of June 30, 2008, Moore Capital Management LLC held 297 positions valued at $3,514,462,066.

Below are up to 200 of Moore Capital Management LLC largest holdings as of June 30, 2008, in order of dollar value.

Company NameValueHoldingsChange
JPMORGAN CHASE & CO INC COM$148,510,8354,328,5003,228,500
PETROHAWK ENERGY CORP COM$147,219,4903,179,0002,879,000
FREEPORT MCMORAN COPPER CL B$138,322,5211,180,327(69,673)
QUALCOMM INC COM$102,494,7002,310,0001,960,000
LEHMAN BROTHERS HOLDINGS INC$100,238,6005,060,0004,840,464
POWERSHARES ETF TRUST WATER R$99,408,0004,800,0000
ELECTRONIC ARTS INC COM$98,856,7502,225,000925,000
PHILIP MORRIS INTERNATIONAL IN$90,496,6061,832,2861,832,286 *
BARCLAYS BK PFD 8.125%49$78,688,0003,200,0003,200,000 *
SANDRIDGE ENERGY INC COM$71,896,9141,113,300577,867
PETROBRAS ADR$58,634,916827,826(1,645,844)
GOOGLE INC CL A$56,326,940107,000107,000 *
HEWLETT PACKARD CO COM$51,946,7501,175,0001,175,000 *
MAX CAPITAL GROUP LTD COM$49,770,0142,333,3340
MARATHON OIL CORP COM$49,276,500950,000950,000 *
SOTHEBYS CL A$46,996,6141,782,2001,782,200 *
COCA COLA CO COM$46,782,000900,000450,000
CHESAPEAKE ENERGY CORP COM$45,842,200695,000(575,000)
POTASH CORP OF SASKATCHEWAN C$45,714,000200,000(60,000)
COMSTOCK RESOURCES INC COM$44,325,750525,000525,000 *
GOODRICH PETROLEUM CORP COM$43,533,000525,000525,000 *
TERRA INDUSTRIES INC COM$41,947,500850,000150,000
ARCH COAL INC COM$38,265,300510,000210,000
AGRIUM INC COM$38,176,700355,000(245,000)
INFORMATICA CORP COM$34,592,0002,300,000700,000
PETROBRAS ADR NVTG$34,480,250595,000282,200
APPLE INC COM$33,488,000200,000200,000 *
ACTIVISION BLIZZARD INC COM$32,369,430950,086(734,914)
MASSEY ENERGY CORP COM$31,345,500334,352209,352
FOMENTO ECON MEX (FEMSA) ADR$31,174,350685,000685,000 *
NVIDIA CORP COM$29,952,0001,600,0001,600,000 *
ANHEUSER BUSCH COS INC COM$29,817,600480,000480,000 *
MOSAIC CO COM$29,663,500205,000(245,000)
UNIBANCO (BRASIL) GDR 1PFD/1P$29,447,760232,000(148,000)
GRUPO TELEVISA SA ADR PC (A/L$28,344,0001,200,000(777,000)
CIA VALE DO RIO DOCE ADR$28,208,250787,500(1,077,500)
APEX SILVER MINES LTD ORD$28,155,2465,734,2660
CONSOL ENERGY INC COM$28,092,500250,00050,000
H J HEINZ CO COM$27,513,750575,000(60,000)
WALTER INDUSTRIES INC COM$27,192,500250,000150,000
AMERICA MOVIL SAB ADR L$24,660,678467,5017,500
BUNGE LTD COM$24,230,250225,000(475,000)
PATRIOT COAL CORP COM$22,993,500300,000300,000 *
NCR CORP COM$22,680,000900,000900,000 *
COMCAST CORP CL A$22,069,6981,163,400963,400
TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR MFG CO LT$21,819,9942,010,0842,010,084 *
AVON PRODUCTS INC COM$21,612,000600,000(350,000)
ALTRIA GROUP INC COM$21,382,4001,040,000250,000
ALLEGHENY TECHNOLOGIES INC CO$20,623,512347,900347,900 *
NUCOR CORP COM$20,534,250275,000(875,000)
PEABODY ENERGY CORP COM$19,811,250225,00075,000
CELGENE CORP COM$19,161,000300,000300,000 *
MONSANTO CO COM$19,112,291151,157(548,843)
ULTRAPETROL BAHAMAS LTD COM$19,068,4641,512,170185,000
MARKET VECTORS ETF TR AGRIBUS$18,585,000300,000(1,025,000)
FORMFACTOR INC COM$18,430,0001,000,0001,000,000 *
TIME WARNER INC COM$18,130,0001,225,000865,000
CME GROUP INC CL A$17,816,80246,49613,496
HUNTSMAN CORP COM$16,025,4021,405,7371,405,737 *
BAXTER INTERNATIONAL INC COM$15,985,000250,000250,000 *
NRG ENERGY INC COM$15,860,902369,718369,718 *
ALPHA NATURAL RESOURCES INC C$15,643,500150,000150,000 *
ASML HOLDING NV NY SH$15,616,000640,000140,000
ISHARES MSCI MEXICO$15,089,100265,000(70,000)
COMMUNITY HEALTH SYSTEMS INC$14,841,000450,000450,000 *
MICROSOFT CORP COM$14,709,019534,679476,664
NOVELLUS SYSTEMS INC COM$14,409,200680,000(2,120,000)
TYSON FOODS INC CL A$14,233,921952,739952,739 *
BECTON DICKINSON & CO COM$14,227,500175,000175,000 *
MEDCO HEALTH SOLUTIONS INC CO$14,160,000300,000300,000 *
MCDONALDS CORP COM$14,055,000250,0000
DATA DOMAIN INC COM$13,998,000600,000600,000 *
EMC CORP/MA COM$13,955,500950,000450,000
DESARROLLADORA HOMEX SA ADR$13,942,040238,000(97,000)
ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISES LTD C$13,931,400620,000620,000 *
CARNIVAL CORP PAIRED CTF$13,843,200420,000420,000 *
REYSAS TASIMACILIK VE LOJISTIK$13,771,5902,625,0000
MARRIOTT INTERNATIONAL INC CL$13,644,800520,000520,000 *
WRIGLEY WM JR CO COM$13,611,500175,0000
GRUPO AEROPORTUARIO PACIFICO A$13,216,500450,000450,000 *
HOLOGIC INC COM$13,080,000600,000600,000 *
CHARLES RIVER LABS INTL INC C$12,784,000200,000200,000 *
CF INDUSTRIES HOLDINGS INC CO$12,606,00082,500(367,500)
HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC C$12,318,600245,000245,000 *
WEYERHAEUSER CO COM$12,273,600240,000140,000
TRANSOCEAN INC COM$12,201,10580,06580,065 *
CRESUD SA ADR$11,960,903804,906127,899
ZIMMER HOLDINGS INC COM$11,908,750175,000175,000 *
BANCO ITAU HOLDING ADR PFD$11,652,863573,750(238,750)
GENENTECH INC COM$11,385,000150,000150,000 *
BANK OF AMERICA CORP COM$11,372,933476,453327,960
GENERAL ELECTRIC CO COM$11,343,250425,000425,000 *
SIRIUS XM RADIO INC COM$10,803,9385,627,051594,237
PACTIV CORP COM$10,615,000500,000500,000 *
BAKER HUGHES INC COM$10,480,800120,000120,000 *
LABORATORY CORP OF AMERICA CO$10,444,500150,000150,000 *
REYNOLDS AMERICAN INC COM$10,034,050215,00060,000
EXXON MOBIL CORP COM$9,981,075113,254113,254 *
CHEVRON CORP COM$9,913,000100,000100,000 *
TOYOTA MOTOR CORP ADR$9,870,000105,000105,000 *
GOLD FIELDS LTD ADR$9,867,000780,000780,000 *
HEALTH NET INC COM$9,624,000400,000290,000
EXCO RESOURCES INC COM$9,227,500250,000250,000 *
VOTORANTIM CELULOSE PAPEL ADR$8,947,850335,000(365,000)
RESEARCH IN MOTION LTD COM$8,767,50075,00075,000 *
CLEVELAND CLIFFS INC COM$8,700,87073,00073,000 *
ST JUDE MEDICAL INC COM$8,176,000200,000200,000 *
MOTOROLA INC COM$8,074,0001,100,0001,100,000 *
ABBOTT LABS COM$7,945,500150,000150,000 *
LIMELIGHT NETWORKS INC COM$7,640,0002,000,000100,000
ABERCROMBIE & FITCH CO CL A$7,521,600120,000120,000 *
COSAN LTD CL A$7,508,787593,580100,000
VALERO ENERGY CORP COM$7,412,400180,000180,000 *
POWERSHARES GLOBAL WATER ETF$7,308,710339,940(115,060)
UNITED TECHNOLOGIES CORP COM$7,095,500115,000115,000 *
CENTEX CORP COM$6,989,502522,775522,775 *
CHINA MOBILE LTD ADR$6,695,000100,000(70,000)
VIVO PARTICIPACOES SA ADR PFD$6,678,0001,050,0000
PENN NATIONAL GAMING INC COM$6,221,025193,500(82,312)
SHAW GROUP INC COM$6,179,000100,0000
UNITED PARCEL SERVICE INC CL$6,147,000100,000100,000 *
PRUDENTIAL FINANCIAL INC COM$5,974,000100,000100,000 *
ENERGYSOLUTIONS INC COM$5,922,750265,000(150,000)

(MORE TO FOLLOW)

September 19, 2008 09:05 ET (13:05 GMT)

Subject: Energy; Project finance; International finance

Company / organization: Name: Securities & Exchange Commission; NAICS: 926150; Name: Central Intelligence Agency--CIA; NAICS: 928110, 928120; Name: Moore Capital Management LLC; NAICS: 523920, 525990; Name: ASML; NAICS: 333242; Name: Freeport-McMoRan Inc; NAICS: 212221, 212234; Name: Value Holdings; NAICS: 551112

Publication title: Dow Jones Institutional News; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Sep 19, 2008

Publisher: Dow Jones & Company Inc

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2243968947

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2243968947?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Dow Jones & Company Inc Sep 19, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-21

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 253 of 313

September 21, 2008 (Page 95 of 264)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]21 Sep 2008: 95.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 49

Issue: 149

First page: 95

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Sep 21, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249050235

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249050235?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Sep 21, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 254 of 313

OppenheimerFunds Inc 2Q 13F: Holdings As Of June 30

Publication info: Dow Jones Institutional News ; New York [New York]22 Sep 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

DJ CFA SOURCE: SEC 13F-HR
FILER: OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
QUARTER ENDED: 06/30/2008
SEC RECEIVED: 08/18/2008

The following sets forth up to 200 of the largest holdings of OppenheimerFunds, Inc. in terms of value as of June 30, 2008, according to a Form 13F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission in August.

As of June 30, 2008, OppenheimerFunds, Inc. held 3,558 positions valued at $110,650,726,084.

Below are up to 200 of OppenheimerFunds Inc.'s largest holdings as of June 30, 2008, in order of dollar value.

Company NameValueHoldingsChange
EXXON MOBIL CORP COM$1,506,553,26717,094,670(2,096,485)
MICROSOFT CORP COM$1,155,947,17442,019,163(4,109,144)
LUKOIL HOLDINGS ADR$942,324,6712,105,283(119,400)
GOOGLE INC CL A$861,985,9031,637,449(460,217)
INFOSYS TECHNOLOGIES LTD ORD$861,025,07421,355,011(101,168)
MONSANTO CO COM$828,701,0366,554,105(306,334)
ERICSSON TELEFON AB ORD B$776,774,64874,403,987710,627
CONOCOPHILLIPS COM$776,540,3008,226,934(2,331,168)
TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR MFG CO LT$758,456,530355,961,55012,880,550
ROCHE HOLDING AG ORD DRC$749,656,0124,149,998129,328
CISCO SYSTEMS INC COM$738,809,49731,763,091(2,779,296)
CHEVRON CORP COM$723,465,0157,298,144(1,201,771)
OCCIDENTAL PETROLEUM CORP COM$703,455,6217,828,351(633,014)
AT&T INC COM$693,574,44720,586,953(923,803)
APPLE INC COM$681,557,1534,070,456(1,604,687)
GOLDMAN SACHS GROUP INC COM$660,021,7043,773,709(620,776)
TRANSOCEAN INC COM$627,281,2814,116,289(526,746)
SIEMENS AG ORD$624,094,0675,617,01546,415
EBAY INC COM$605,392,54222,151,209(856,329)
MEDIATEK INC ORD$590,611,07451,731,653(13,191,957)
SCHLUMBERGER LTD COM$588,714,7895,479,985(2,695,979)
PHILIP MORRIS INTERNATIONAL IN$566,006,83211,459,94811,459,948 *
ADOBE SYSTEMS INC COM$562,875,61614,289,810(1,066,974)
GAZPROM OAO ADR REG S$562,265,8259,293,6501,909,850
WAL MART STORES INC COM$555,288,2039,880,573363,630
HSBC HOLDINGS PLC ORD$554,047,86035,887,2063,745,592
HENNES & MAURITZ AB ORD B$533,287,0829,825,140(310,822)
GENERAL ELECTRIC CO COM$515,631,26319,319,268(5,583,137)
GRUPO TELEVISA SA ADR PC (A/L$492,753,87420,861,722(235,632)
CREDIT SUISSE GROUP ORD REG$484,232,42410,516,8261,658,101
DEVON ENERGY CORP COM$480,076,9303,995,314379,571
CORNING INC COM$476,739,76220,682,853(5,649,382)
ORASCOM TELECOM HOLDING ORD$458,549,12131,501,6776,680,508
TECHNIP SA ORD$446,508,6084,820,523(613,796)
QUALCOMM INC COM$436,741,7199,843,176(6,064,794)
COCA COLA CO COM$429,309,3188,259,1255,869,725
GILEAD SCIENCES INC COM$422,098,4977,971,643(1,437,256)
EVEREST RE GROUP LTD COM$420,321,0335,273,1281,597,139
CREDIT SUISSE GROUP ADR$420,238,8779,274,749988,685
ABB LTD ORD REG$418,376,58414,664,77846,997
XTO ENERGY INC COM$412,755,2116,024,744279,262
SIEMENS AG ADR$412,373,1953,744,422520,680
LOCKHEED MARTIN CORP COM$412,129,8534,177,274614,077
SONY CORP ORD$411,954,0859,411,46487,827
UNITED TECHNOLOGIES CORP COM$404,154,9296,550,323(335,736)
BOEING CO COM$402,170,4516,119,453515,150
RESEARCH IN MOTION LTD COM$391,500,6723,349,022(359,354)
LVMH-LOUIS VUITTON MOET HEN O$385,057,2903,670,70434,084
CITIGROUP INC COM$382,014,82022,793,2476,241,762
LAM RESEARCH CORP COM$380,661,74110,530,0623,968,817
WELLPOINT INC COM$380,329,0887,980,0483,360,023
LIBERTY GLOBAL INC CL C$379,909,64712,513,4931,277,029
FOMENTO ECON MEX (FEMSA) ORD$378,345,48883,014,92222,215,783
INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINE$378,120,4193,190,082(286,295)
SAP AG ORD$373,900,8247,135,13284,932
WALT DISNEY CO COM$370,166,84611,864,322(706,561)
FIRSTENERGY CORP COM$368,134,6434,471,452237,788
INTEL CORP COM$367,445,30017,106,392(4,898,713)
HEWLETT PACKARD CO COM$365,919,6718,276,853(3,177,698)
HUSKY ENERGY INC COM$363,986,9337,615,586(530,195)
FREEPORT MCMORAN COPPER CL B$361,217,1983,082,321(8,173)
AETNA INC COM$359,584,7138,872,0635,353,324
ABBOTT LABS COM$358,194,3176,762,2115,866,940
NESTLE SA ORD REG$356,764,3087,872,620(70,240)
EMERSON ELECTRIC CO COM$353,958,1557,157,900(765,213)
JUNIPER NETWORKS INC COM$343,058,34815,467,013(172,500)
AFFILIATED COMPUTER SERVICES$341,896,7406,391,788(1,431,775)
AMERICA MOVIL SAB ADR L$340,009,6736,445,681(1,024,865)
RAYTHEON CO COM$339,428,2266,031,0631,800,942
AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING INC$337,199,8458,047,729(18,088)
BP PLC ADR$330,496,1114,750,555(49,122)
FORTUM OYJ ORD$328,397,7966,461,05954,437
LUBRIZOL CORP COM$324,884,3997,012,3983,218,914
SPRINT NEXTEL CORP COM$323,679,80134,071,55823,285,918
CIA VALE DO RIO DOCE ADR PFD$323,068,43010,826,690(262,900)
PRAXAIR INC COM$321,749,2133,414,147(343,439)
ALLIANZ SE ORD REG$320,693,8931,818,98215,484
MCDONALDS CORP COM$312,217,7705,553,500350,402
3M CO COM$311,516,3644,476,453(633,321)
INTUIT INC COM$308,491,20711,189,380652,330
PHILIPS ELECTRONICS NV ORD$308,159,5729,050,835190,560
HOUSING DEVELOPMENT FIN (HDFC)$306,458,4025,064,201(822,300)
MURPHY OIL CORP COM$303,826,4563,098,689(604,828)
EXELON CORP COM$300,367,6243,338,902(752,686)
JOHNSON & JOHNSON COM$296,981,6014,615,816(5,050,203)
RANGE RESOURCES CORP COM$295,731,1614,512,22483,604
EMBRAER (EMP BRASIL AERO) ADR$294,674,93911,119,809(309,026)
EASTMAN CHEMICAL CO COM$291,190,3484,228,730272,092
CARNIVAL CORP PAIRED CTF$284,804,1968,640,904(144,762)
PETROBRAS ADR NVTG$282,428,3654,873,6564,860,244
CROWN CASTLE INTERNATIONAL COR$278,157,2337,181,958(575,330)
LIBERTY GLOBAL INC CL A$277,681,4108,834,916266,719
LORILLARD INC. COM$275,888,3003,989,1311,392,814
KDDI CORP (DDI) ORD$275,878,31544,580342
APPLIED MATERIALS INC COM$274,915,07114,400,9993,097,160
BAYERISCHE MOTOR WERKE BMW OR$274,300,0485,698,78872,934
EADS (EURO AERO DEFENCE SPACE)$271,709,74014,323,41591,597
VISA INC CL A$271,231,3773,335,7693,335,769 *
GRUPO FINANCIERO BANORTE ORD$267,858,17455,211,3002,657,400
LAS VEGAS SANDS CORP COM$267,271,6945,633,8891,104,665
IMPALA PLATINUM HOLDINGS LTD$267,096,7396,766,58037,085
AMERICAN INTERNATIONAL GROUP$265,434,12510,031,524(2,591,373)
ADVANCED MICRO DEVICES INC CO$262,486,55645,023,423(17,953,651)
TIFFANY & CO COM$260,529,3796,393,359102,183
PFIZER INC COM$258,001,01314,768,232(1,186,117)
COGNIZANT TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS$255,481,3307,858,5461,024,649
POLO RALPH LAUREN CORP CL A$255,387,5964,067,977(1,379,989)
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORP COM$255,309,8013,816,2901,455,660
SCHERING PLOUGH CORP COM$254,892,54412,945,279(867,023)
AMERICAN EXPRESS CO COM$254,211,2116,748,373(2,372,535)
TAKE-TWO INTERACTIVE SOFTWARE$253,119,6299,899,086(147,817)
TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INC COM$249,641,6388,865,115579,890
SK TELECOM CO LTD ADR$247,358,67411,909,421(104,615)
THERMO FISHER SC (ELECTRON) IN$246,994,6914,431,988249,831
EXPRESS SCRIPTS INC COM$246,293,8513,926,879910,046
PT TELEKOMUNIKASI INDONESIA O$246,160,167283,082,63534,038,635
APACHE CORP COM$244,933,0121,762,108211,341
PETROBRAS ADR$244,785,6473,455,960(7,404,822)
TOTAL SA ORD$243,227,2192,848,26712,722
INDUSTRIA DISENO TEXTIL INDITE$240,787,1165,223,08162,214
SANOFI AVENTIS SA ORD$239,998,6323,590,075(43,727)
GENERAL DYNAMICS CORP COM$239,972,9472,850,035248,262
NII HOLDINGS INC COM$239,490,6455,042,970(1,757,789)
ALL AMERICA LATINA LOGISTICA$239,267,35516,102,90012,164,638

(MORE TO FOLLOW)

September 22, 2008 13:54 ET (17:54 GMT)

Subject: Acquisitions & mergers; Project finance

Company / organization: Name: Securities & Exchange Commission; NAICS: 926150; Name: Central Intelligence Agency--CIA; NAICS: 928110, 928120; Name: BP PLC; NAICS: 211111, 324110, 447110; Name: Freeport-McMoRan Inc; NAICS: 212221, 212234; Name: Value Holdings; NAICS: 551112; Name: AT & T Inc; NAICS: 517110, 517210

Publication title: Dow Jones Institutional News; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Sep 22, 2008

Publisher: Dow Jones & Company Inc

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2243884025

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2243884025?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Dow Jones & Company Inc Sep 22, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-21

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 255 of 313

Marpessa Dawn, Eurydice in the Film ‘Black Orpheus,’ Dies at 74

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Sep 26, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Ms. Dawn played the beautiful, melancholic and doomed Eurydice in the classic 1959 Brazilian movie “Black Orpheus.”

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Marpessa Dawn, who played the beautiful, melancholic and doomed Eurydice in the classic 1959 Brazilian movie “Black Orpheus,” died on Aug. 25 at her home in Paris. She was 74.

The cause was a heart attack, her daughter Dhyana Kluth said.

Ms. Dawn’s death followed by 41 days that of her “Black Orpheus” co-star, Breno Mello, who played the title role. The family did not publicly announce the death until this week.

Directed by Marcel Camus and based on the Greek myth of Orpheus and Eurydice, “Orfeu Negro,” as it is called in Portuguese, brings together an innocent country girl, played by Ms. Dawn, and a trolley car motorman and gifted guitarist, portrayed by Mr. Mello. They meet amid the frenzy of Rio’s carnival and are soon swaying to a provocative samba among the crowds. But Eurydice is stalked by a man in a skeleton costume. Eventually, Orpheus finds her in the morgue. In the end, bearing her body in his arms, he falls to his death from a cliff.

Reviewing the film for The New York Times in 1959, Bosley Crowther wrote that Ms. Dawn conveys “forthright emotion.”

“A pretty, frank face and a gentle manner that suggest absolute innocence,” the review continued, “gather an aura of wistfulness about her that filters down into a melancholy mood.”

“Black Orpheus” became renowned for its soundtrack by the bossa nova legends Antonio Carlos Jobim and Luiz Bonfá, with songs like “Manhã de Carnaval” and “A Felicidade.” It won the Palme d’Or at the 1959 Cannes Film Festival and the Academy Award and the Golden Globe for best foreign film in 1960.

Gypsy Marpessa Dawn Menor was born near Pittsburgh on Jan. 3, 1934. As a teenager, she moved to England, where she had bit parts on television, and later to France, where she worked as a governess and danced and sang in nightclubs.

After her role in “Black Orpheus,” Ms. Dawn appeared in several less successful movies and on French television. She also starred in several plays, including “Chérie Noire,” a comedy that toured France, Belgium, Switzerland, Tunisia, Algeria and Morocco.

Ms. Dawn was married twice. Besides her daughter Ms. Kluth, she is survived by four other children and four grandchildren.

Subject: Motion picture festivals

Location: England Pittsburgh Pennsylvania Switzerland Algeria Belgium New York France Tunisia Morocco

Company / organization: Name: New York Times Co; NAICS: 511110, 511120, 515112, 515120; Name: Cannes Film Festival; NAICS: 512131, 711320

Identifier / keyword: MOTION PICTURES Gospel Music Academy Awards (Oscars) New York Times Hevesi, Dennis Brazil Paris (France) Golden Globes (Awards) Crowther, Bosley Deaths (Obituaries) Jobim, Antonio Carlos Greece Music Cannes International Film Festival Portugal Festivals Dawn, Marpessa Pittsburgh (Pa) Black Orpheus (Movie) England France Belgium Switzerland Tunisia Algeria Morocco

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Sep 26, 2008

Section: movies

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals --United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2221542178

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2221542178?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-09

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 256 of 313

Pre-salt Shakes Things Up

Author: Tarta, Ramona; McKeigue, James; Ortelli, Mercedes

Publication info: Oil & Gas Investor ; Houston  Vol. 28, Iss. 10,  (Oct 2008): B3.

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Abstract:

Massive discoveries off Brazil's coast herald a bonanza for Brazil's oil and gas sector, but huge efforts will be required to equip the industry to exploit them. Services are stretched, skills and equipment are lacking, and Petrobras has yet to loosen its grip. This report looks at the sector as it attempts to upscale and ramp up to the challenge. The discovery of several significant offshore reservoirs in the so-called pre-salt region has raised expectations that Brazil may have discovered a 200-kilometer-by-800-kilometer oil province. With several notable geologists claiming that there may be little or no exploratory risk in the pre-salt areas, many feel that the existing concession model must be adjusted or replaced.

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Headnote

Massive discoveries off Brazil's coast herald a bonanza for Brazil's oil and gas sector, but huge efforts will be required to equip the industry to exploit them. Services are stretched, skills and equipment are lacking, and Petrobras has yet to loosen its grip. This report looks at the sector as it attempts to upscale and ramp up to the challenge.

Until recently, for most people Brazil has conjured up images of samba-dancing carnival goers or soccer-not hydrocarbons. Yet ever since President Getulio Vargas created Petrobras, the state oil company, in 1953, the country has been steadily increasing its oil and gas production. In 2006, Brazil finally achieved its aim of oil self-sufficiency, but, with production standing at about 1.9 million barrels of oil per day, it still failed to attract much attention. That was, until the pre-salt discovery.

The discovery of several significant offshore reservoirs in the so-called pre-salt region-a geological formation lying beneath a layer of salt in waters as deep as 3,000 meters and below as many as 7,000 meters of seabed-has raised expectations that Brazil may have discovered a 200-kilometer-by-800-kilometer oil province.

This has coincided with a general upturn in the country's economic fortunes. Brazil's economy has grown at an average annual rate of 4.5% since 2004. It is, however, important to remember that Brazil is only just emerging from almost two decades of economic problems. In 1980, economic mismanagement and political instability derailed almost 40 years of annual economic growth, plunging Brazil into a cycle of recession and recovery for the 1980s and much of the 1990s. Between 1986 and 1993, yearly inflation roller coastered between 500% and 2,500%, while in the same period gross domestic product oscillated wildly from -4.5% to 7.5%.

This economic turmoil had a profound effect on the oil and gas industry as the government cut investment in Petrobras. As the company enjoyed a virtual E&P monopoly, many Brazilian manufacturers and providers of goods or services specific to the oil and gas industry were forced to downscale or leave the market. Perhaps the most significant damage was to the workforce. For almost a decade the numbers of students studying engineering dropped, and less skilled and semi-skilled laborers were trained. This recent economic history played an important part in shaping economic conditions in Brazil today.

Nevertheless, throughout the tough times, Brazil's oil and gas production steadily increased, while Petrobras gained expertise in exploiting offshore reserves. The government also flirted with opening the market by inviting foreign firms to help explore and produce hydrocarbons in the so-called 'risk-rounds' of the late 1970s and 1980s, although this experiment produced few successful foreign ventures.

By 1994, then president Fernando Henrique Cardoso had tamed rampant inflation with Plan Real. Indeed, aside from a momentary blip in 2003, inflation has stayed below 10% since 1996. He then turned his attention to the hydrocarbon sector and amended the constitution to break Petrobras' monopoly.

The Petroleum Law (no 9.478) passed in 1997 transformed Brazil's hydrocarbon landscape. It created the National Council of Energy Policy (CNPE) to formulate hydrocarbon policy and the National Petroleum Agency (ANP) to enforce the legal framework. The first round of bidding for the concessions that were made available followed in 1999, with nine since.

Until recently, the bidding process was viewed as a success, with the ANP offering a clear concession contract, comparable to those available in North America or the North Sea. Indeed, by 2008 a total of 72 companies held ANP-distributed concessions, while national oil reserves were up from 7.1 billion barrels in 1997, to 12.6 billion barrels. In the same period, daily hydrocarbon production also rose, with national oil production leaping to 1.9 million barrels per day from 857,000 barrels daily, and gas output rocketing to 1.75 billion cubic feet per day from 950 million cubic feet daily.

A clamor for change

Yet the hyperbole surrounding the recent pre-salt discoveries, typified by claims by government minister and Petrobras chairman Dilma Rousef that Brazil could be "the next Saudi Arabia", has created a clamor for change. With several notable geologists claiming that there may be little or no exploratory risk in the pre-salt areas, many feel that the existing concession model must be adjusted or replaced.

On one side of the argument are politicians of various parties who want to secure more governmental control over reserves, either by switching to production-sharing agreements (PSAs) or by creating a new state entity to develop the pre-salt fields. Industry strongly opposed these options. The Brazilian Institute for Petroleum (IBP), which represents both the E&P companies and the service sector, maintains that the concession contract model should remain in place. The IBP's position is that the government can increase its "take-home" percentage by adjusting the royalties of the concession, so changing the model would be unnecessary and potentially harmful.

In the ninth bidding round, which came after Tupi, a pre-salt field believed to have 5 billion to 8 billion barrels, was discovered, the ANP decided to withdraw the concession blocks that fell within the pre-salt zone. Following the Carioca discovery, however, bidding rounds have been temporarily suspended.

For President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, or 'Lula', the decisive moment has arrived. Before Lula and his leftwing Partido Dos Trablhadores (Workers Party) came to power in 2003, many feared that he would reverse the economic reforms and privatizations of his predecessor, Cardoso. However, until now Lula has encouraged the fledgling oil and gas independents and worked with Petrobras to encourage local firms to compete for service tenders. Yet the pre-salt layer has thrown up a question that Lula must answer: Should he continue with the market-based concession contract system that has served Brazilian oil and gas well until now, or should he listen to the call of some of his more nationalistic comrades and change the system to ensure Brazil retains more control over its most valuable asset? Looming elections make second-guessing the maverick Lula an even more difficult task.

This report presents the story thus far, and by examining the growth of the service industry, equipment manufacturers and independents, explores how the Brazilian hydrocarbon sector could move forward.

AuthorAffiliation

This report was prepared by Global Business Reports for Oil and Gas Investor. The authors are Ramona Tarta (ramona@gbreports.com), James McKeigue (james@gbreports.com) and Mercedes Ortelli (mercedes@gbreports.com). More information on the firm is available at GBReports.com

Subject: Petroleum industry; Oil exploration; Drilling & boring machinery; Workforce planning

Location: Brazil

Classification: 9173: Latin America; 8510: Petroleum industry; 6100: Human resource planning

Publication title: Oil & Gas Investor; Houston

Volume: 28

Issue: 10

Pages: B3

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Oct 2008

Section: BRAZIL: INTRODUCTION

Publisher: Hart Energy

Place of publication: Houston

Country of publication: United States, Houston

Publication subject: Petroleum And Gas

ISSN: 07445881

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 224909683

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/224909683?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Hart Energy Publishing, LP Oct 2008

Last updated: 2016-08-27

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; SciTech Premium Collection

Document 257 of 313

NATION & WORLD BRIEFS

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Chicago Tribune ; Chicago, Ill. [Chicago, Ill]07 Oct 2008: 11.

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Abstract: None available.

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MICHIGAN

"I wouldn't want my parents to have that much control over how I'm driving."

--Danisha Williams, talking about a new Ford program that would allow parents to set limits on teen drivers

CALIFORNIA

State health officials say the words "bride" and "groom" will reappear on all marriage license applications issued in California starting next month, instead of the terms "Party A" and "Party B."

FLORIDA

Fairgoers at a carnival near Daytona Beach caught a 2-year-old girl whose mother was forced to drop her after they were both stranded 30 feet off the ground on a ride over the weekend. Paramedics safely rescued the mom.

WASHINGTON, D.C.

The Supreme Court rejected an appeal for a new trial for Death Row inmate Mumia Abu-Jamal, convicted in the 1981 killing of Philadelphia cop Daniel Faulkner.

PENNSYLVANIA

Most people over age 75 should stop getting routine colon cancer tests, according to a government health task force.

BRAZIL

More than 370 penguins took flight Monday for cooler climes, thanks to the Brazilian air force -- chicagotribune.com/penguinsfly

GAZA STRIP

Hamas legislators said Monday they will cease to recognize Mahmoud Abbas as Palestinian president after Jan. 8.

IRAQ

"They told us we don't have a place in our government, and we don't know why."

--Thair al-Sheekh, a Baghdad priest among 75 who gathered Monday at a church to demand that the Iraqi parliament amend the provincial elections law to ensure political representation for the nation's minorities

CHINA-TAIWAN

China has abruptly canceled a series of military and diplomatic contacts with the U.S. to protest a planned $6.5 billion package of arms sales to Taiwan, officials told The Associated Press on Monday.

CHINA

NV8888

Vanity plate for which a man waited three days, state media said. (The number 8 rhymes with the Chinese word for "prosper.") Beijing began issuing vanity plates Monday after a six-year hiatus sparked by crude and politically incorrect messages.

PAKISTAN

Suicide bomber kills 20

A suicide bomber set off his explosives Monday while trying to force his way into an opposition politician's home, killing at least 20 people and injuring more than 60 others. The targeted lawmaker, Rasheed Akbar Niwani, a member of Pakistan's minority Shiite Muslim community, was injured but survived.

SPAIN

The Basque regional government's president will be tried for meeting members of Batasuna, a party banned for its links to the armed separatist group ETA, a Spanish court said Monday.

----------

Page compiled from Tribune news services

Illustration

Caption: Photo (color): 1. Mike Moore carries a mattress out of a tent city for the homeless in downtown Reno on Monday. With Nevada facing high unemployment rates, Reno set up the tent city after existing shelters became crowded. Max Whittaker/GettyPhoto (color): 1. A police constable patrols Dal Lake on Monday during a strict curfew in Kashmir, India, that was imposed as thousands of troops have been deployed to prevent a major pro-independence rally from taking place. Paula Bronstein/GettyPhoto (color): 3. At least 30 people were killed when twin earthquakes jolted Lhasa, the capital of Tibet, and surrounding areas on Monday. Above, a woman with her child walks past a collapsed building in the Yangbajain township. Also, a 6.6-magnitude quake struck on Sunday Kyrgyzstan in the mountains of Central Asia, destroying the village of Nura and killing at least 72 people. Purbu Zhaxi/Xinhua

Publication title: Chicago Tribune; Chicago, Ill.

Pages: 11

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Oct 7, 2008

Section: News

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Chicago, Ill.

Country of publication: United States, Chicago, Ill.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 10856706

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 420 737729

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/420737729?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 by the Chicago Tribune)

Last updated: 2017-11-14

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 258 of 313

EXCURSIONS NOT FOR THE TIMID: CRUISE LINES' SHORE TRIPS CATER TO THE MORE ADVENTUROUS PASSENGER.

Author: Clarke, Jay

Publication info: St. Petersburg Times ; St. Petersburg, Fla. [St. Petersburg, Fla]12 Oct 2008: L.8.

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Abstract:

For some years, cruise lines have been adding excursions that appeal to younger passengers, such as zip-line adventures, lessons in regional cuisine and ecological tours. But now they're upping the ante with even more "extreme" excursions and tours that lean on modern technology.

Norwegian offers exclusive four- and nine-hour tours in a private vehicle for passengers who want to explore any NCL port of call on their own, and Princess and Royal Caribbean offer iPod-guided walking tours.

Both those lines let passengers choose whether they want to follow a set itinerary on their iPod tours or design their own. Princess' iPod tours, available in 16 European cities for $29 each, provide passengers with a detailed map of attractions along with recorded tour information. Regent also offers iPod tours of some European cities.

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In Jamaica, Carnival Cruise Lines offers passengers a bobsled ride through a tropical forest. In Stockholm, Sweden, Norwegian Cruise Line guests can take a rooftop tour of the city. In Key West, those sailing on Royal Caribbean ships can take a walking tour with a handheld GPS that not only supplies directions but also provides facts, myths and legends.

These are some of the smart new kinds of shore excursions offered by mainstream cruise lines as they widen their appeal to a more active, tuned-in audience.

For some years, cruise lines have been adding excursions that appeal to younger passengers, such as zip-line adventures, lessons in regional cuisine and ecological tours. But now they're upping the ante with even more "extreme" excursions and tours that lean on modern technology.

Some may be expensive, and many limit the number of participants. But all provide a less common perspective to their visit ashore. Norwegian Cruise Line, for one, has just launched a new series of shore excursions called Ultimate Touring that is available to groups of two to 18 persons.

Besides that rooftop walk in Stockholm, its tours include such unusual experiences as a speedboat exploration of the Helsinki, Finland, archipelago and sharing cuisine secrets with an Alaskan chef in Ketchikan.

In June, Holland America announced the addition of nearly 500 specially selected excursions in several categories. Among themare first-class tours to events and sights not readily available, such as becoming a dolphin trainer for a day in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico, and tours that explore beyond the standard attractions, such as visiting important sites in the life of Eva Peron in Buenos Aires.

Of special interest to "been-there-done-that" travelers is Holland America's Signature Collection, which allows guests to customize their excursions and reserve private transportation.

Norwegian offers exclusive four- and nine-hour tours in a private vehicle for passengers who want to explore any NCL port of call on their own, and Princess and Royal Caribbean offer iPod-guided walking tours.

Both those lines let passengers choose whether they want to follow a set itinerary on their iPod tours or design their own. Princess' iPod tours, available in 16 European cities for $29 each, provide passengers with a detailed map of attractions along with recorded tour information. Regent also offers iPod tours of some European cities.

Here are a few active, less-structured shore explorations.

MSC Cruises

Hog alert: On the Caribbean island of St. Maarten, MSC offers adults a guided motorcycle tour that lasts about five hours and runs through the French side of the island. Participants can ride either a legendary Fat Boy bike or the classic Harley Heritage, but must have a current motorcycle license (available in most states) and credit card. Price is $395.

Norwegian

One unusual NCL tour is a mountain bike expedition in Corfu, Greece. Only 20 people can participate. The tour takes them to such untouched regions of the island as the villages of Kato Korakiana and St. Markos. Price starts at $179.

Princess

Passengers not afflicted with the fear of heights now can climb Sydney, Australia's famous Harbour Bridge all the way to the top, more than 400 feet above the water, on a ship-arranged tour. Participants must wear a jumpsuit, headset and harness, pass an alcohol breath test and negotiate 1,400-odd steps on catwalks and ladders. Price starts at $175.

Celebrity

An evening at Russia's famous Hermitage Museum in St. Petersburg, when the facility is closed to the public, is offered by Celebrity. Included is a private tour of its celebrated artworks and a ballet performance. Cost is $299.

Costa

For the ecologically minded, Costa offers a tour from the port of Ilheus, Brazil, that visits CEPLAC, a research center devoted to the preservation of sloths and other creatures in the Atlantic Forest. Guests also drive on the environmentally friendly Ilheus-Itacare Road, where nets have been installed in treetops above the roadway so that small animals can cross in safety. Cost is $59.

Jay Clarke, former travel editor of the Miami Herald, is a freelance writer based in Coral Gables.

Credit: SPECIAL TO THE TIMES

Illustration

Caption: PHOTO, Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian Cruise Line's rooftop walk in Stockholm, Sweden. Numerous lines now offer more adventurous shore trips.

Publication title: St. Petersburg Times; St. Petersburg, Fla.

First page: L.8

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Oct 12, 2008

Section: LATITUDES

Publisher: Times Publishing Company

Place of publication: St. Petersburg, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, St. Petersburg, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 264320276

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/264320276?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 St. Petersburg Times. All rights reserved.)

Last updated: 2012-02-26

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 259 of 313

Art of Brazil on show

Author: Eubank, Donald

Publication info: McClatchy - Tribune Business News ; Washington [Washington]17 Oct 2008.

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Abstract:

Ca^ndido Portinari (1903-62), a neorealist who became one of Brazil's best-known 20th-century artists; Joa~o Henrique (b. 1935), a supreme colorist who paints lush vegetation and delicate birds; multitalented landscape artist Roberto Burle Marx (1909-94), whose bright meditations recall visual jazz; and Lia Mittarakis (1935-98), who did rhythmic, naive works, one of which was chosen for the cover of Time magazine when Brazil hosted the 1992 Earth Summit.

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Oct. 17--Japan is hosting a carnival of events to celebrate 100 years of Japanese immigration to Brazil this year, but Jacqueline Montagu has been promoting ties between the South American nation and Asia for more than two decades.

A longtime collector of Brazilian art, the English-born Montagu arranged her first show in Hong Kong in 1985. It featured artists from 10 Latin American countries. Since then she has taken exhibitions from her adopted homeland of Brazil to Taipei, Shanghai, Seoul, Manila, Macau, Wellington and Tokyo in the hope of exposing its vibrant culture that many may miss while looking to the West.

Currently a guest of the Peruvian ambassador to Tokyo, Montagu is presenting "Brazilia through its Artists," a show of paintings and drawings by renowned South American artists, at the City Club of Tokyo, next to the Canadian Embassy in Akasaka, until Oct. 24. While the works are small, the artists are top-notch, including: Ca^ndido Portinari (1903-62), a neorealist who became one of Brazil's best-known 20th-century artists; Joa~o Henrique (b. 1935), a supreme colorist who paints lush vegetation and delicate birds; multitalented landscape artist Roberto Burle Marx (1909-94), whose bright meditations recall visual jazz; and Lia Mittarakis (1935-98), who did rhythmic, naive works, one of which was chosen for the cover of Time magazine when Brazil hosted the 1992 Earth Summit.

Not only is this a great opportunity to check out the swank City Club, which is usually only open to the diplomats and captains of industry who are its regular members (dress accordingly), but all the works are for sale. And even if you don't pick up a piece of South American history for your living-room wall, at least you will have prepared yourself for the upcoming "Neotropicalia" exhibition of Brazilian art at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Tokyo (opening Oct. 22).

"Brazilia through its Artists" is showing until Oct. 24 at the City Club of Tokyo, Canada Place, B1F, 7-3-38 Akasaka, Minato Ward, Tokyo; For more information, call (03) 3401-1121 or visit www.cityclub.co.jp

Credit: Japan Times, Tokyo

Location: Brazil

Publication title: McClatchy - Tribune Business News; Washington

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Oct 17, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Content Agency LLC

Place of publication: Washington

Country of publication: United States, Washington

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 457044817

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/457044817?accountid=48 40

Copyright: To see more of the Japan Times or to subscribe to the newspaper, go to http://www.japantimes.co.jp.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/. Copyright (c) 2008, Japan Times, Tokyo Distributed by McClatchy-Tribune Information Services. For reprints, email tmsreprints@permissionsgroup.com, call 800-374-7985 or 847-635-6550, send a fax to 847-635-6968, or write to The Permissions Group Inc., 1247 Milwaukee Ave., Suite 303, Glenview, IL 60025, USA.

Last updated: 2017-10-29

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 260 of 313

Research and Markets: Obtain Competitive Intelligence With Brazil Food and Drink Report Q4 2008

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: M2 Presswire ; Coventry [Coventry]21 Oct 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

BEGIN_TABLE Latin America Food & Drink Business Environment Ratings Q4 2008

BEGIN_TABLE Food & Drink Trade Balance Historical Data & Forecasts

BEGIN_TABLE Alcoholic Drink Value/Volume Sales Historical Data & Forecasts

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

M2 PRESSWIRE-October 21, 2008-Research and Markets: Obtain Competitive Intelligence With Brazil Food and Drink Report Q4 2008 (C)1994-2008 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD

Dublin - Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/fc702b/brazil_food_and_dr) has announced the addition of the "Brazil Food and Drink Report Q4 2008" report to their offering.

Brazil Food Drink Report provides independent forecasts and competitive intelligence on Brazil's food and drink industry.

The Brazilian drinks industry is large and dynamic. In both the soft drinks and alcoholic drinks sectors sales have been growing rapidly for the last five years. However, in Q108 many producers recorded lacklustre sales and there were concerns that the recent growth rate may not be matched this year. There are several possible explanations for this slowdown and the long term implications differ depending on which is correct.

AmBev, which controls 70% of the Brazilian beer market, had a tough first quarter with its volume sales declining by 2%. The firm blamed unseasonably wet weather and an early carnival, after which alcohol consumption traditionally declines. Over the same period, the third largest brewer in Brazil, FEMSA Cerveza, reported that its volume sales increased by 2.8%, which is also not nearly as impressive as the levels of growth being reported over the preceding two years.

Key Topics Covered:

Executive Summary

Business Environment

Latin America Food & Drink Business Environment Ratings

BEGIN_TABLE Latin America Food & Drink Business Environment Ratings Q4 2008

Brazil s Food And Drink Business Environment Rating

BEGIN_TABLE Global Food & Drink Business Environment Ratings

SWOT Analysis

Food And Drink

Brazil Food And Drink Industry SWOT

Mass Grocery Retail

Brazil Mass Grocery Retail Industry SWOT

Macroeconomic Outlook

BEGIN_TABLE Brazil Economic Activity

Food

Industry Forecast Scenario

Total Food Consumption

BEGIN_TABLE Brazil Food Consumption Indicators Historical Data & Forecasts

Trade

BEGIN_TABLE Food & Drink Trade Balance Historical Data & Forecasts

BEGIN_TABLE Brazil s Canned Food Sales, 2005-2012

Confectionery

BEGIN_TABLE Brazil s Confectionery Sales, 2005-2012

Industry Developments

Market Overview

Overview Of Sector

Prepared Food/Canned Food

Confectionery

Dairy

Meat

Seafood

Drink

Industry Forecast Scenario

Hot Drinks

Hot Drink Value Sales Historical Data & Forecasts

Alcoholic Drinks

BEGIN_TABLE Alcoholic Drink Value/Volume Sales Historical Data & Forecasts

Soft Drinks And Bottled Water

BEGIN_TABLE Soft Drink Value/Volume Sales Historical Data & Forecasts

Industry Developments

Market Overview

Hot Drinks

Soft Drinks

Alcoholic Drinks

Agriculture At A Glance

BEGIN_TABLE Brazil s Dairy Industry Data, 2000-2006

BEGIN_TABLE Brazil s Agricultural Sub-Sector Production Data, 2000-2006

BEGIN_TABLE Brazil Rural/Urban Population Breakdown

Agricultural Commodity Price

Mass Grocery Retail

Industry Forecast Scenario

BEGIN_TABLE Brazil s Mass Grocery Retail Value Sales By Format, 2005-2012 (US$bn)

BEGIN_TABLE Sales Breakdown By Retail Format Type, 2007 And 2017 (%)

Industry Developments

Market Overview

BEGIN_TABLE Structure Of Brazil's Mass Grocery Retail Market By Estimated Number Of Outlets, 2002-2007

BEGIN_TABLE Structure Of Brazil's Mass Grocery Retail Market, Sales By Format (US$bn)

BEGIN_TABLE Average Annual Sales Value By Format, 2007 (US$mn)

Competitive Landscape

Key Players

Food And Drink

BEGIN_TABLE Key Players in Brazil's Food and Drink Sector

Mass Grocery Retail

BEGIN_TABLE Key Players in Brazil's Mass Grocery Retail Sector.

Company Analysis

Food

Perdig o

Sadia SA

Drink

Embotelladora Andina

AmBev

Mass Grocery Retail

Companhia Brasileira de Distribui o (CBD)

Wal-Mart

Recession Scenario

Global Scenario

BEGIN_TABLE World GDP Growth

BEGIN_TABLE US GDP Growth, Investment Growth And Private Consumption Growth

BEGIN_TABLE Eurozone GDP Growth

BEGIN_TABLE Asia, Excluding Japan, GDP Growth

BEGIN_TABLE China GDP Growth

BEGIN_TABLE Mexico GDP Growth

BEGIN_TABLE Africa GDP Growth

Latin America Food & Drink Scenario

Deep US Recession: What Would Be The Impact For Latin America s Food And Drink Industries?

BEGIN_TABLE Impact Of Deep US Recession On Total Food Consumption In Latin America Cumulative Difference (US$bn)

BEGIN_TABLE Impact Of Deep US Recession On Total Food Consumption In Latin America Cumulative Difference (%)

Appendix

Food & Drink Business Environment Ratings

Ratings Methodology

Ratings Overview

Ratings System

Indicators

Limits of Potential Returns

Risks to Realisation of Potential Returns

Weighting

Weighting

BMI Food & Drink Industry Glossary

Food & Drink

Mass Grocery Retail

BMI Food & Drink Forecasting & Sourcing

How We Generate Our Industry Forecasts

Sourcing

Companies Mentioned:

Wal-Mart

AmBev

For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/fc702b/brazil_food_and_dr

CONTACT: Laura Wood, Senior Manager, Research and Markets

Fax: +1 646 607 1907 (from USA)

Fax: +353 1 481 1716 (rest of the world)

e-mail: press@researchandmarkets.com

((M2 Communications Ltd disclaims all liability for information provided within M2 PressWIRE. Data supplied by named party/parties. Further information on M2 PressWIRE can be obtained at http://www.presswire.net on the world wide web. Inquiries to info@m2.com)).

Company: M2 Communications Ltd BEGIN_TABLE Key Players

Publication title: M2 Presswire; Coventry

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Oct 21, 2008

Publisher: Normans Media Ltd

Place of publication: Coventry

Country of publication: United Kingdom, Coventry

Publication subject: Communications

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 444375925

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/444375925?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright M2 Communications Ltd. 2008)

Last updated: 2010-06-30

Database: SciTech Premium Collection

Document 261 of 313

Modern Motifs, With Echoes of Brazil

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Oct 24, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Today the career of the Brazilian artist Beatriz Milhazes seems as jampacked as her paintings themselves.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

STANDING in a back exhibition space at James Cohan Gallery in Chelsea, the Brazilian artist Beatriz Milhazes sounded like a rigorous Constructivist as she discussed her four latest paintings, which were propped against the walls.

“This one is based on squares, kind of a grid,” she said, pointing to “Mulatinho,” whose blocks of color are broken up by dots, rippling stripes, paisleylike ornaments, stylized flowers and a piece of carefully painted fruit.

Mr. Cohan, her dealer, who had just walked into the room, started laughing. “You and Mondrian,” he said.

Although Ms. Milhazes clearly considers herself a geometric abstractionist, those are hardly the first words that spring to mind when regarding her work, the focus of a solo show at the gallery.

Squares often come laced with lines and dots, circles frequently mutate into eye-popping targets, and everything is laden with motifs that evoke the multilayered culture of her home, Rio de Janeiro. There are arabesques, roses and doily patterns, borrowed from Brazilian Baroque, colonial and folk art; flowers and plants inspired by the city’s botanical garden, which is next door to her studio; and thick wavy stripes — a nod to the undulating Op Art-inspired mosaic pavement that the Brazilian landscape designer Roberto Burle Marx created in 1970 for the promenade at Copacabana Beach.

Yet Ms. Milhazes, 48, maintains that her compositions are essentially geometric. “Sometimes I put the square behind,” she said, referring to the initial layer of the painting, “and I build up things on top of it. The squares may disappear, but they are still a reference for me to think about composition. And I’ve always been very loyal to my ideas.”

Today her career seems as jampacked as her paintings themselves. In addition to the show at James Cohan, which runs through Nov. 15, her first major career survey is on view at the Pinacoteca do Estado in São Paulo, Brazil. By early November, within a span of a month, three limited-edition projects — a tapestry, a textile design and an artist’s book — will have been issued. She has also just completed a new site-specific window installation for a show at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo. (Sometime next year she will create a similar piece for the Winter Garden at the World Financial Center in New York.)

Then there is “Gamboa,” a sculptural installation that will be unveiled on Nov. 1 at Prospect.1, the contemporary-art biennial in New Orleans. Ms. Milhazes intends to transform one room of a 19th-century mint building into a shimmering chandelier hung with globes and flowers, all of which have been fabricated by workers at one of the many samba schools in Rio.

“It didn’t make any sense to organize a room with paintings,” Ms. Milhazes said of the project. “New Orleans was always about the vitality, the dancing and the music. So I link it — the carnival in New Orleans with the Carnaval in Rio. It will make this kind of dialogue between two cities.”

Growing up under the former military dictatorship in Brazil, Ms. Milhazes did not have access to the mainstream art world. Although Brazil has had an avant-garde art scene since the 1930s, opportunities for young artists in Rio were limited in the early 1980s, when she embarked on her career. Back then Latin American collectors typically focused on work from past eras. “We didn’t have any voice,” Ms. Milhazes said of her colleagues from that time.

For a young painter who longed to see the work of 20th-century masters like Mondrian and Matisse, the situation was especially arid. “Twenty-five years ago, if you didn’t travel, you never would see paintings,” she said. And today, she noted, painting is still only an undercurrent in Brazil’s art scene. “We have strong contemporary art,” she said, “but more in conceptualism and installation. So I am quite isolated here.”

But isolation also helped Ms. Milhazes develop her rather unusual working process. “You don’t have the history on your back,” she explained. She starts by painting with acrylic on sheets of plastic, working motif by motif, creating each image in reverse as if she were making a print.

Once a motif is dry she glues the painted side to the canvas, almost as if it were a decal, and then peels off the plastic to reveal a surface that looks handmade but is nearly unmarked by brushstrokes. Then she continues layering as if she were making a collage. When she developed this method in the late ’80s, she said, “it opened a huge door for me.”

The door opened further in 1992, when the Brazilian curator and critic Paulo Herkenhoff brought three Americans to Ms. Milhazes’s studio: Richard Armstrong, then a curator at the Carnegie Museum in Pittsburgh and now the incoming director of the Solomon R. Guggenheim Foundation in New York; Madeleine Grynsztejn, then a curator at the Art Institute of Chicago and now director of the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago; and Fred Henry, president of the Bohen Foundation, a nonprofit group that commissions new works of art.

Mr. Henry soon became a devoted collector, and Mr. Armstrong eventually invited Ms. Milhazes to participate in the 1995 Carnegie International. “That was the opening,” she said. Through the Carnegie, she met a New York dealer, Edward Thorp, who began showing her work in SoHo the next year. Her career quickly became multinational. Now she frequently shows in Europe, especially London, as well as in Latin America, Asia and New York.

Ms. Grynsztejn said Ms. Milhazes’s widespread appeal lies in the fact that she is a “glocal” artist — someone whose work is grounded in the international language of modernism while also firmly rooted in her own place and time. “What I really loved about the work,” she said, “was the way that it merged figuration and abstraction, and even decoration and craft, within the highly intellectual enterprise of formal abstraction.”

She was also fascinated by the strong echoes of local culture in Ms. Milhazes’s work. After leaving the studio, she recalled, “I remember very vividly that when we sat down to lunch, the plastic tablecloth that covered the restaurant tables had the same bright, busy patterns” as Ms. Milhazes’s paintings. Later that day she experienced another jolt of déjà vu while passing the ornamental facade of a Baroque church. At that point, she said, “I understood that that vernacular had infiltrated at a very high level into Beatriz’s work.”

Yet despite the Brazilian feel of her work, there is nothing else quite like it in Brazilian art, past or present, said Adriano Pedrosa, a curator in São Paulo who has known Ms. Milhazes for years. “She seems to have a quite close relationship with Brazilian art history,” he said, “but that’s because she’s appropriating things.”

He also sees her oeuvre as being related to Antropofagia, a Brazilian movement of the ’20s and ’30s whose name means cannibalism. Mr. Pedrosa described it as “this concept where the Brazilian native artist appropriates foreign elements and digests them to produce something personal and unique.”

In fact Ms. Milhazes often says her major influence is Tarsila, a Brazilian painter who came out of that movement, as well as Mondrian and Matisse.

“In the beginning,” she said, “I felt a connection between Spanish Latin American and Brazilian, which is more Portuguese: the Baroque churches, the costumes, the ruffles, things that have volume or a sculptural shape.”

But ultimately, she said, although she wanted to incorporate all those things into her work, “I wanted to put them together based on a geometric composition. Because at the end of the day, I was only interested in structure and order.”

Subject: Art galleries & museums; Artists; Flowers & plants; Careers; Contemporary art; Textile design; Curators; Baroque era; Painting

Location: Pittsburgh Pennsylvania Chicago Illinois New York Latin America Brazil Rio de Janeiro Brazil Asia Copacabana Beach Europe

Company / organization: Name: James Cohan Gallery; NAICS: 712110; Name: Art Institute of Chicago; NAICS: 712110

Identifier / keyword: Art Brazil MUSEUM OF CONTEMPORARY ART Cohan, James Milhazes, Beatriz Tables CHELSEA (NYC) Museums World Financial Center Flowers and Plants Collectors and Collections Guggenheim, Solomon R, Foundation Kino, Carol Carnival (Pre-Lenten) Art Institute of Chicago Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) Marx, Roberto Burle Textiles Travel and Vacations Tokyo (Japan) Folk Music Matisse, Henri Carnegie Museum of Art New York State Herkenhoff, Paulo Gardens and Gardening New Orleans (La) Armstrong, Richard Dancing Grynsztejn, Madeleine Latin America United States Pittsburgh (Pa) Chicago (Ill) SOHO (NYC) Europe London (England) Far East, South and Southeast Asia and Pacific Areas Portugal

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Oct 24, 2008

Section: arts

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2221201589

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2221201589?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-08

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 262 of 313

Former Student Radical in Runoff for Mayor of Rio

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Oct 25, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

In September 1969, Fernando Gabeira helped kidnap the American ambassador to Brazil. On Sunday, he could become Rio de Janeiro’s next mayor.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

RIO DE JANEIRO — In September 1969, Fernando Gabeira helped kidnap the American ambassador to Brazil to protest the military government’s oppressive dictatorship here. On Sunday, he could become this city’s next mayor.

In the nearly four decades since that episode catapulted Mr. Gabeira into Brazilian history, the former student militant, now 67, has become a respected writer, congressman and symbol of the left here — although a photo of him wearing a woman’s bikini bottom also made him a sex symbol of sorts.

Now the slender, soft-spoken former guerrilla has a chance to help chart the future of a city that many say is crying out for radical redefinition after decades of steadily losing its place as a diplomatic and business hub in Brazil.

Heading into a runoff here, Mr. Gabeira was running in polls last week only slightly behind Eduardo Paes, a 38-year-old congressman allied with Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, Brazil’s president.

Just a month ago, few political analysts gave Mr. Gabeira much of a chance. But a campaign backed by many of Rio’s wealthy businessmen and intellectual elites has helped him make a surprising surge in recent weeks.

Powerful men like Eike Batista, the billionaire mining magnate, have thrown their support behind Mr. Gabeira. Even Valerie Elbrick, the daughter of the late Ambassador C. Burke Elbrick, whom Mr. Gabeira helped kidnap, supports his campaign. She says she forgave him long ago for the kidnapping.

“He is a charming man, and if I were not working for Obama I would probably be working for Gabeira,” Mrs. Elbrick said by phone from Washington on Friday. If he wins, she said, “it’s going to be a huge task with the scale of the problems in Rio.”

“But he has taken on huge tasks before, and I have confidence in him,” she added.

What Mr. Gabeira lacks in administrative experience, his supporters say, he makes up for with a remarkably even temperament and a reputation for clearly stating his positions, which include legalizing marijuana, abortion and gay marriage.

Mr. Gabeira has been engaged with a wide-ranging group of Rio residents who are debating the future of a city that has become best known for its beaches, violent crime and bacchanalian street carnivals.

“Rio is a city that needs inspired leadership, someone that that can really help us reinvent ourselves,” said Amaury de Souza, a political analyst who heads MCM Consultants here. “Gabeira is modern, someone that is completely attuned to present times.”

In the last half-century, Rio has suffered one disappointment after another. In 1960 it lost its place as the country’s capital and federal district when Brasília was built. Then the military merged the city with the adjoining state of Rio de Janeiro, forcing the city almost overnight to share its tax base with a much larger and far poorer entity.

Today the city of six million people still has about the same average income per person that it did in the 1970s, adjusted for inflation, even as outlying areas of the state have become wealthier, Mr. de Souza said.

Several economic blows took a further toll on the city’s importance. Rio’s major banks and many of its industries left the city in the past two decades, most going to São Paulo. A trading scandal forced Rio’s stock exchange to merge its meager assets with São Paulo’s Bovespa in 1989. Today the Bovespa is the largest stock exchange in Latin America.

The feeling in Rio is not dissimilar to the feeling that existed in Bogotá, Colombia, some 15 years ago when that city was crying out for bold change. A series of mayors there, including Enrique Peñalosa, helped lower crime and redefine the urban landscape by restricting automobile use and creating grand public spaces.

In Rio, many would-be reformers are betting on Mr. Gabeira to turn around a city where he made headlines as a 28-year-old guerrilla fighter.

He was among four men with pistols who kidnapped Mr. Elbrick on Sept. 4, 1969, threatening to kill him if the Brazilian government did not release 15 political prisoners and fly them into exile. Brazil’s military leaders met the demands after a tense four-day standoff.

“I don’t condone the methods,” said Mrs. Elbrick, 66. “But they were idealistic people. My father realized he wasn’t dealing with thugs. These were intelligent young men who were at heart peaceful people.”

It is not clear how the kidnapping would affect Mr. Gabeira’s ability to obtain a visa to enter the United States were he to be elected mayor. A State Department spokeswoman did not return calls Friday seeking clarification.

Mr. Gabeira was later captured, tortured, convicted and incarcerated by the military dictatorship. In June 1970, he was expelled from Brazil as part of a prisoner swap for the kidnapped German ambassador, and for 10 years he lived in exile in Algeria, Cuba, Chile, Sweden and Italy.

He wrote a memoir about the kidnapping that was the basis of a 1997 movie, “Four Days in September,” starring Alan Arkin as Ambassador Elbrick. It was nominated for an Academy Award for best foreign-language film.

When Mr. Gabeira returned to Brazil in 1979 he made headlines again when a photo was published of him on Ipanema Beach in an itsy-bitsy bathing suit. Years later he said it was the bottom part of a bikini belonging to his cousin, Leda Nagle, a Brazilian television hostess.

His experience in Western Europe shaped many of the political ideas he brought back to Brazil. He helped found the Green Party in Brazil and was an early promoter of ecological awareness in a country that had long considered environmental protection a luxury of more developed nations.

His political career initially stalled when he ran unsuccessfully for governor of Rio State in 1986. After the defeat, he focused on his journalism career, serving as a foreign correspondent in Germany in the early 1990s.

In 1994, he was elected to Congress, running as a Green on an “ecological and economical” campaign; he used recycled paper in his pamphlets and sought votes while riding a bicycle affixed with a microphone and speakers.

Despite his recent climb in the polls, victory is still not a given in the mayoral race. Mr. Gabeira remains a polarizing figure, and in particular he is unpopular with evangelicals because of his positions on drugs, homosexuality and abortion. In a debate with Mr. Paes this month, both men said they had smoked marijuana; Mr. Paes said he did not like it.

Beyond those cultural flashpoints, neither man has proposed any bold, sweeping initiatives. Mr. Gabeira has said he would light streets better to try to reduce crime, and Mr. Paes has said he would seek more state funds for city projects. But Mr. Gabeira, especially, has repeatedly said he would not make big promises.

“Neither of them has any administrative experience to speak of,” Mr. de Souza said. “But that is not what voters are asking for. They want something new and fresh to be done to the city of Rio. He who embodies that kind of message will win the election.”

Subject: Dictators; Politics; Diplomatic & consular services; Mayors; Abortion; Stock exchanges; Kidnapping

Location: Italy Sweden Western Europe United States--US Germany Latin America Cuba Chile Brazil Algeria Rio de Janeiro Brazil Colombia

People: Paes, Eduardo Arkin, Alan

Company / organization: Name: Congress; NAICS: 921120; Name: Sao Paulo Stock Exchange; NAICS: 523210

Identifier / keyword: Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) Gabeira, Fernando Homosexuality State Department Politics and Government Brazil United States Politics and Government GREEN PARTY Barrionuevo, Alexei Kidnapping Elections Drug Abuse and Traffic Senate Da Silva, Luiz Inacio Lula Mayors Washington (DC) Books and Literature Batista, Eike Hostages House of Representatives Latin America Penalosa, Enrique United States Economy Brasilia (Brazil) Colombia News and News Media Arkin, Alan United States Marijuana Germany IMMIGRATION AND REFUGEES United States International Relations Algeria Cuba Prisons and Prisoners Environment Chile Debating Sweden Sustainable Living Italy

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Oct 25, 2008

Section: world

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2221367384

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2221367384?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-08

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 263 of 313

Ex-student radical might become Rio's next mayor

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Oct 26, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

RIO DE JANEIRO — In September 1969, Fernando Gabeira helped kidnap the U.S. ambassador to Brazil to protest the military government's oppressive dictatorship here. On Sunday, he could become this city's next mayor.

In the nearly four decades since that episode catapulted Gabeira into Brazilian history, the former student militant, now 67, has become a respected writer, congressman and symbol of the left here - although a photo of him wearing a woman's bikini bottom also made him a sex symbol of sorts.

Now the slender, soft-spoken former guerrilla has a chance to help chart the future of a city that many say is crying out for radical redefinition after decades of steadily losing its place as a diplomatic and business hub in Brazil.

Heading into a runoff here, Gabeira was running in polls last week only slightly behind Eduardo Paes, a 38-year-old congressman allied with Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, the Brazilian president.

Just a month ago, few political analysts gave Gabeira much of a chance. But a campaign backed by many of Rio's wealthy businessmen and intellectual elites has helped him make a surprising surge in recent weeks.

Powerful men like Eike Batista, the billionaire mining magnate, have thrown their support behind Gabeira. Even Valerie Elbrick, the daughter of the late Ambassador C. Burke Elbrick, whom Gabeira helped kidnap, supports his campaign. She says she forgave him long ago for the kidnapping.

"He is a charming man, and if I were not working for Obama I would probably be working for Gabeira," Elbrick said by telephone from Washington on Friday, referring to Barack Obama, the U.S. Democratic presidential nominee. If he wins, she said, "it's going to be a huge task with the scale of the problems in Rio."

"But he has taken on huge tasks before, and I have confidence in him," she added.

What Gabeira lacks in administrative experience, his supporters say, he makes up for with a remarkably even temperament and a reputation for clearly stating his positions, which include legalizing marijuana, abortion and gay marriage.

Gabeira has been engaged with a wide-ranging group of Rio residents who are debating the future of a city that has become best known for its beaches, violent crime and bacchanalian street carnivals.

"Rio is a city that needs inspired leadership, someone that can really help us reinvent ourselves," said Amaury de Souza, a political analyst who heads MCM Consultants here. "Gabeira is modern, someone that is completely attuned to present times."

In the last half-century, Rio has suffered one disappointment after another. In 1960 it lost its place as the country's capital and federal district when Brasília was built. Then the military merged the city with the adjoining state of Rio de Janeiro, forcing the city almost overnight to share its tax base with a much larger and far poorer entity.

Today the city of six million people still has about the same average income per person that it did in the 1970s, adjusted for inflation, even as outlying areas of the state have become wealthier, de Souza said.

Several economic blows took a further toll on the city's importance. Rio's major banks and many of its industries left the city in the past two decades, most going to São Paulo. A trading scandal forced Rio's stock exchange to merge its meager assets with São Paulo's Bovespa in 1989. Today the Bovespa is the largest stock exchange in Latin America.

The feeling in Rio is not dissimilar to the feeling that existed in Bogotá, Colombia, some 15 years ago when that city was crying out for bold change. A series of mayors there, including Enrique Peñalosa, helped lower crime and redefine the urban landscape by restricting automobile use and creating grand public spaces.

In Rio, many would-be reformers are betting on Gabeira to turn around a city where he made headlines as a 28-year-old guerrilla fighter.

He was among four men with pistols who kidnapped Ambassador Elbrick on Sept. 4, 1969, threatening to kill him if the Brazilian government did not release 15 political prisoners and fly them into exile.

Brazil's military leaders met the demands after a tense four-day standoff.

"I don't condone the methods," said Elbrick's daughter, who is now 66. "But they were idealistic people. My father realized he wasn't dealing with thugs. These were intelligent young men who were at heart peaceful people."

It is not clear how the kidnapping would affect Gabeira's ability to obtain a visa to enter the United States were he to be elected mayor. A State Department spokeswoman did not return calls Friday seeking clarification.

Gabeira was later captured, tortured, convicted and incarcerated by the military dictatorship. In June 1970, he was expelled from Brazil as part of a prisoner swap for the kidnapped German ambassador, and for 10 years he lived in exile in Algeria, Cuba, Chile, Sweden and Italy.

He wrote a memoir about the kidnapping that was the basis of a 1997 movie, "Four Days in September," starring Alan Arkin as Ambassador Elbrick. It was nominated for an Academy Award for best foreign-language film.

When Gabeira returned to Brazil in 1979 he made headlines again when a photo was published of him on Ipanema Beach in an itsy-bitsy bathing suit. Years later he said it was the bottom part of a bikini belonging to his cousin, Leda Nagle, a Brazilian television hostess.

Gabeira's experience in Western Europe shaped many of the political ideas he brought back to Brazil. He helped found the Green Party in Brazil and was an early promoter of ecological awareness in a country that had long considered environmental protection to be a luxury of more developed nations.

Gabeira's political career initially stalled when he ran unsuccessfully for governor of Rio State in 1986. After the defeat, he focused on his journalism career, serving as a foreign correspondent in Germany in the early 1990s.

In 1994, Gabeira was elected to Congress, running as a Green on an "ecological and economical" campaign; he used recycled paper in his pamphlets and sought votes while riding a bicycle affixed with a microphone and speakers.

Despite his recent climb in the polls, victory is still not a given in the mayoral race. Gabeira remains a polarizing figure, and in particular he is unpopular with evangelicals because of his positions on drugs, homosexuality and abortion. In a debate with Paes this month, both men said they had smoked marijuana; Paes said he did not like it.

Beyond those cultural flash points, neither man has proposed any bold, sweeping initiatives. Gabeira has said he would light streets better to try to reduce crime, and Paes has said he would seek more state funds for city projects. But Gabeira, especially, has repeatedly said he would not make big promises.

"Neither of them has any administrative experience to speak of," de Souza said. "But that is not what voters are asking for. They want something new and fresh to be done to the city of Rio. He who embodies that kind of message will win the election."

Subject: Dictators; Politics; Diplomatic & consular services; Mayors; Abortion; Stock exchanges; Kidnapping

Location: Italy Sweden Western Europe United States--US Germany Latin America Cuba Chile Brazil Algeria Rio de Janeiro Brazil Colombia

People: Paes, Eduardo Arkin, Alan Obama, Barack

Company / organization: Name: Congress; NAICS: 921120; Name: Sao Paulo Stock Exchange; NAICS: 523210

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Oct 26, 2008

Section: world

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2221475255

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2221475255?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-08

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 264 of 313

Former Student Radical in Runoff for Mayor of Rio: [Foreign Desk]

Author: Barrionuevo, Alexei

Publication info: New York Times , Late Edition (East Coast); New York, N.Y. [New York, N.Y]26 Oct 2008: A.8.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Now the slender, soft-spoken former guerrilla has a chance to help chart the future of a city that many say is crying out for radical redefinition after decades of steadily losing its place as a diplomatic and business hub in Brazil. Mr. Gabeira has been engaged with a wide-ranging group of Rio residents who are debating the future of a city that has become best known for its beaches, violent crime and bacchanalian street carnivals.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

In September 1969, Fernando Gabeira helped kidnap the American ambassador to Brazil to protest the military government's oppressive dictatorship here. On Sunday, he could become this city's next mayor.

In the nearly four decades since that episode catapulted Mr. Gabeira into Brazilian history, the former student militant, now 67, has become a respected writer, congressman and symbol of the left here -- although a photo of him wearing a woman's bikini bottom also made him a sex symbol of sorts.

Now the slender, soft-spoken former guerrilla has a chance to help chart the future of a city that many say is crying out for radical redefinition after decades of steadily losing its place as a diplomatic and business hub in Brazil.

Heading into a runoff here, Mr. Gabeira was running in polls last week only slightly behind Eduardo Paes, a 38-year-old congressman allied with Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Brazil's president.

Just a month ago, few political analysts gave Mr. Gabeira much of a chance. But a campaign backed by many of Rio's wealthy businessmen and intellectual elites has helped him make a surprising surge in recent weeks.

Powerful men like Eike Batista, the billionaire mining magnate, have thrown their support behind Mr. Gabeira. Even Valerie Elbrick, the daughter of the late Ambassador C. Burke Elbrick, whom Mr. Gabeira helped kidnap, supports his campaign. She says she forgave him long ago for the kidnapping.

"He is a charming man, and if I were not working for Obama I would probably be working for Gabeira," Mrs. Elbrick said by phone from Washington on Friday. If he wins, she said, "it's going to be a huge task with the scale of the problems in Rio."

"But he has taken on huge tasks before, and I have confidence in him," she added.

What Mr. Gabeira lacks in administrative experience, his supporters say, he makes up for with a remarkably even temperament and a reputation for clearly stating his positions, which include legalizing marijuana, abortion and gay marriage.

Mr. Gabeira has been engaged with a wide-ranging group of Rio residents who are debating the future of a city that has become best known for its beaches, violent crime and bacchanalian street carnivals.

"Rio is a city that needs inspired leadership, someone that that can really help us reinvent ourselves," said Amaury de Souza, a political analyst who heads MCM Consultants here. "Gabeira is modern, someone that is completely attuned to present times."

In the last half-century, Rio has suffered one disappointment after another. In 1960 it lost its place as the country's capital and federal district when Brasilia was built. Then the military merged the city with the adjoining state of Rio de Janeiro, forcing the city almost overnight to share its tax base with a much larger and far poorer entity.

Today the city of six million people still has about the same average income per person that it did in the 1970s, adjusted for inflation, even as outlying areas of the state have become wealthier, Mr. de Souza said.

Several economic blows took a further toll on the city's importance. Rio's major banks and many of its industries left the city in the past two decades, most going to Sao Paulo. A trading scandal forced Rio's stock exchange to merge its meager assets with Sao Paulo's Bovespa in 1989. Today the Bovespa is the largest stock exchange in Latin America.

The feeling in Rio is not dissimilar to the feeling that existed in Bogota, Colombia, some 15 years ago when that city was crying out for bold change. A series of mayors there, including Enrique Penalosa, helped lower crime and redefine the urban landscape by restricting automobile use and creating grand public spaces.

In Rio, many would-be reformers are betting on Mr. Gabeira to turn around a city where he made headlines as a 28-year-old guerrilla fighter.

He was among four men with pistols who kidnapped Mr. Elbrick on Sept. 4, 1969, threatening to kill him if the Brazilian government did not release 15 political prisoners and fly them into exile. Brazil's military leaders met the demands after a tense four-day standoff.

"I don't condone the methods," said Mrs. Elbrick, 66. "But they were idealistic people. My father realized he wasn't dealing with thugs. These were intelligent young men who were at heart peaceful people."

It is not clear how the kidnapping would affect Mr. Gabeira's ability to obtain a visa to enter the United States were he to be elected mayor. A State Department spokeswoman did not return calls Friday seeking clarification.

Mr. Gabeira was later captured, tortured, convicted and incarcerated by the military dictatorship. In June 1970, he was expelled from Brazil as part of a prisoner swap for the kidnapped German ambassador, and for 10 years he lived in exile in Algeria, Cuba, Chile, Sweden and Italy.

He wrote a memoir about the kidnapping that was the basis of a 1997 movie, "Four Days in September," starring Alan Arkin as Ambassador Elbrick. It was nominated for an Academy Award for best foreign-language film.

When Mr. Gabeira returned to Brazil in 1979 he made headlines again when a photo was published of him on Ipanema Beach in an itsy-bitsy bathing suit. Years later he said it was the bottom part of a bikini belonging to his cousin, Leda Nagle, a Brazilian television hostess.

His experience in Western Europe shaped many of the political ideas he brought back to Brazil. He helped found the Green Party in Brazil and was an early promoter of ecological awareness in a country that had long considered environmental protection a luxury of more developed nations.

His political career initially stalled when he ran unsuccessfully for governor of Rio State in 1986. After the defeat, he focused on his journalism career, serving as a foreign correspondent in Germany in the early 1990s.

In 1994, he was elected to Congress, running as a Green on an "ecological and economical" campaign; he used recycled paper in his pamphlets and sought votes while riding a bicycle affixed with a microphone and speakers.

Despite his recent climb in the polls, victory is still not a given in the mayoral race. Mr. Gabeira remains a polarizing figure, and in particular he is unpopular with evangelicals because of his positions on drugs, homosexuality and abortion. In a debate with Mr. Paes this month, both men said they had smoked marijuana; Mr. Paes said he did not like it.

Beyond those cultural flashpoints, neither man has proposed any bold, sweeping initiatives. Mr. Gabeira has said he would light streets better to try to reduce crime, and Mr. Paes has said he would seek more state funds for city projects. But Mr. Gabeira, especially, has repeatedly said he would not make big promises.

"Neither of them has any administrative experience to speak of," Mr. de Souza said. "But that is not what voters are asking for. They want something new and fresh to be done to the city of Rio. He who embodies that kind of message will win the election."

Photograph

Fernando Gabeira, 67, Campaigning Last Week in the Leopoldina Neighborhood of Rio de Janeiro, has Become a Respected Writer, Congressman and Now a Surprisingly Strong Candidate for Mayor.(Photograph by Silvia Izquierdo/Associated Press); Mr. Gabeira at a Military Tribunal in Rio in 1970, Where He Was Convicted for His Role in Kidnapping the American Ambassador. (Photograph by Kaouru/Jornal Do Brasil, Via Associated Press)

Subject: Mayors; Elections -- Rio de Janeiro Brazil

Location: Rio de Janeiro Brazil Brazil

People: Gabeira, Fernando

Publication title: New York Times, Late Edition (East Coast); New York, N.Y.

Pages: A.8

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Oct 26, 2008

Dateline: RIO DE JANEIRO

Section: A

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York, N.Y.

Country of publication: United States, New York, N.Y.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 03624331

CODEN: NYTIAO

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 433945214

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/433945214?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright New York Times Company Oct 26, 2008

Last updated: 2017-11-15

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 265 of 313

Modern motifs, with echoes of Brazil

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Oct 27, 2008.

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Abstract: None available.

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Full text:

Standing in a back exhibition space at James Cohan Gallery in Chelsea, the Brazilian artist Beatriz Milhazes sounded like a rigorous Constructivist as she discussed her four latest paintings, which were propped against the walls.

"This one is based on squares, kind of a grid," she said, pointing to "Mulatinho," whose blocks of color are broken up by dots, rippling stripes, paisleylike ornaments, stylized flowers and a piece of carefully painted fruit.

Cohan, her dealer, who had just walked into the room, started laughing. "You and Mondrian," he said.

Although Milhazes clearly considers herself a geometric abstractionist, those are hardly the first words that spring to mind when regarding her work, the focus of a solo show at the gallery.

Squares often come laced with lines and dots, circles frequently mutate into eye-popping targets, and everything is laden with motifs that evoke the multilayered culture of her home, Rio de Janeiro. There are arabesques, roses and doily patterns, borrowed from Brazilian Baroque, colonial and folk art; flowers and plants inspired by the city's botanical garden, which is next door to her studio; and thick wavy stripes — a nod to the undulating Op Art-inspired mosaic pavement that the Brazilian landscape designer Roberto Burle Marx created in 1970 for the promenade at Copacabana Beach.

Yet Milhazes, 48, maintains that her compositions are essentially geometric. "Sometimes I put the square behind," she said, referring to the initial layer of the painting, "and I build up things on top of it. The squares may disappear, but they are still a reference for me to think about composition. And I've always been very loyal to my ideas."

Today her career seems as jampacked as her paintings themselves. In addition to the show at James Cohan, which runs through Nov. 15, her first major career survey is on view at the Pinacoteca do Estado in São Paulo, Brazil. By early November, within a span of a month, three limited-edition projects — a tapestry, a textile design and an artist's book — will have been issued. She has also just completed a new site-specific window installation for a show at the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo. (Sometime next year she will create a similar piece for the Winter Garden at the World Financial Center in New York.)

Then there is "Gamboa," a sculptural installation that will be unveiled on Nov. 1 at Prospect.1, the contemporary-art biennial in New Orleans. Milhazes intends to transform one room of a 19th-century mint building into a shimmering chandelier hung with globes and flowers, all of which have been fabricated by workers at one of the many samba schools in Rio.

"It didn't make any sense to organize a room with paintings," Milhazes said of the project. "New Orleans was always about the vitality, the dancing and the music. So I link it — the carnival in New Orleans with the Carnaval in Rio. It will make this kind of dialogue between two cities."

Growing up under the former military dictatorship in Brazil, Milhazes did not have access to the mainstream art world. Although Brazil has had an avant-garde art scene since the 1930s, opportunities for young artists in Rio were limited in the early 1980s, when she embarked on her career. Back then Latin American collectors typically focused on work from past eras. "We didn't have any voice," Milhazes said of her colleagues from that time.

For a young painter who longed to see the work of 20th-century masters like Mondrian and Matisse, the situation was especially arid. "Twenty-five years ago, if you didn't travel, you never would see paintings," she said. And today, she noted, painting is still only an undercurrent in Brazil's art scene. "We have strong contemporary art," she said, "but more in conceptualism and installation. So I am quite isolated here."

But isolation also helped Milhazes develop her rather unusual working process. "You don't have the history on your back," she explained. She starts by painting with acrylic on sheets of plastic, working motif by motif, creating each image in reverse as if she were making a print.

Once a motif is dry she glues the painted side to the canvas, almost as if it were a decal, and then peels off the plastic to reveal a surface that looks handmade but is nearly unmarked by brushstrokes. Then she continues layering as if she were making a collage. When she developed this method in the late '80s, she said, "it opened a huge door for me."

The door opened further in 1992, when the Brazilian curator and critic Paulo Herkenhoff brought three Americans to Milhazes's studio: Richard Armstrong, then a curator at the Carnegie Museum in Pittsburgh and now the incoming director of the Solomon Guggenheim Foundation in New York; Madeleine Grynsztejn, then a curator at the Art Institute of Chicago and now director of the Museum of Contemporary Art in Chicago; and Fred Henry, president of the Bohen Foundation, a nonprofit group that commissions new works of art.

Henry soon became a devoted collector, and Armstrong eventually invited Milhazes to participate in the 1995 Carnegie International. "That was the opening," she said. Through the Carnegie, she met a New York dealer, Edward Thorp, who began showing her work in SoHo the next year. Her career quickly became multinational. Now she frequently shows in Europe, especially London, as well as in Latin America, Asia and New York.

Grynsztejn said Milhazes's widespread appeal lies in the fact that she is a "glocal" artist — someone whose work is grounded in the international language of modernism while also firmly rooted in her own place and time. "What I really loved about the work," she said, "was the way that it merged figuration and abstraction, and even decoration and craft, within the highly intellectual enterprise of formal abstraction."

She was also fascinated by the strong echoes of local culture in Milhazes's work. After leaving the studio, she recalled, "I remember very vividly that when we sat down to lunch, the plastic tablecloth that covered the restaurant tables had the same bright, busy patterns" as Milhazes's paintings. Later that day she experienced another jolt of déjà vu while passing the ornamental facade of a Baroque church. At that point, she said, "I understood that that vernacular had infiltrated at a very high level into Beatriz's work."

Yet despite the Brazilian feel of her work, there is nothing else quite like it in Brazilian art, past or present, said Adriano Pedrosa, a curator in São Paulo who has known Milhazes for years. "She seems to have a quite close relationship with Brazilian art history," he said, "but that's because she's appropriating things."

He also sees her oeuvre as being related to Antropofagia, a Brazilian movement of the '20s and '30s whose name means cannibalism. Pedrosa described it as "this concept where the Brazilian native artist appropriates foreign elements and digests them to produce something personal and unique."

In fact Milhazes often says her major influence is Tarsila, a Brazilian painter who came out of that movement, as well as Mondrian and Matisse.

"In the beginning," she said, "I felt a connection between Spanish Latin American and Brazilian, which is more Portuguese: the Baroque churches, the costumes, the ruffles, things that have volume or a sculptural shape."

But ultimately, she said, although she wanted to incorporate all those things into her work, "I wanted to put them together based on a geometric composition. Because at the end of the day, I was only interested in structure and order."

Subject: Art galleries & museums; Artists; Flowers & plants; Careers; Contemporary art; Textile design; Curators; Baroque era; Painting

Location: Pittsburgh Pennsylvania Chicago Illinois New York Latin America Brazil Rio de Janeiro Brazil Asia Copacabana Beach Europe

Company / organization: Name: James Cohan Gallery; NAICS: 712110; Name: Art Institute of Chicago; NAICS: 712110

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Oct 27, 2008

Section: arts

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General I nterest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2221319853

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2221319853?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-08

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 266 of 313

you must

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Daytona Beach News - Journal, The ; Daytona Beach, Fla. [Daytona Beach, Fla]30 Oct 2008: D.2.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

On successive albums, Shady mellowed into everyday gangsta chic, boring rap braggadocio and that sappy "Stan" song with the telegraphed "surprise" ending. But now Slim Shady, just like [Jason] and Freddy, has risen from the grave.

The evidence: the appropriately titled new Eminem track, "I'm Having a Relapse." It's a chilling, violent tale in which Slim confesses he's "manic depress-ity." It's on YouTube.

That's the lesson from Orson Welles' "Touch of Evil" -- a 1958 film noir that some critics regard as Welles' masterpiece (yep, ahead of that "Citizen Kane" thing).

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

LISTEN

Slim Shady's back

When Eminem burst on the hip-hop scene in 1999, his Slim Shady persona wasn't gangsta -- he was an American psycho. The horrific but brilliant track " '97 Bonnie & Clyde" must have made Freddy Krueger and Jason quake in their boots.

On successive albums, Shady mellowed into everyday gangsta chic, boring rap braggadocio and that sappy "Stan" song with the telegraphed "surprise" ending. But now Slim Shady, just like Jason and Freddy, has risen from the grave.

The evidence: the appropriately titled new Eminem track, "I'm Having a Relapse." It's a chilling, violent tale in which Slim confesses he's "manic depress-ity." It's on YouTube.

WATCH 'Evil' gets touched

Sometimes evil doesn't wear a hockey mask. Sometimes evil looks like a corpulent, slob-mannered crooked cop whose visage hides a cunning, chess-like mind.

That's the lesson from Orson Welles' "Touch of Evil" -- a 1958 film noir that some critics regard as Welles' masterpiece (yep, ahead of that "Citizen Kane" thing).

Welles directs and stars as the disgusting, crooked police officer Hank Quinlan. A surprisingly un-wooden Charlton Heston stars as Mexican narcotics officer Ramon Miguel Vargas, who's on his honeymoon when he's thrust into a cat-and-mouse game with Quinlan.

A 50th anniversary edition of "Touch of Evil," with original and "restored" versions, is in stores now.

READ

Get busy listening

The blocos afros drummers of Brazil use more than 100 percussionists to achieve "thundering groove ecstasy" during that country's carnival season.

That's just one of the million or so fascinating factoids and insights in the new book "1,000 Recordings To Hear Before You Die" by music critic and sax player Tom Moon.

Moon admirably transcends those trite "greatest albums" lists by ranging very far and very wide in his choices, and by convincing us that he knows what he's talking about -- as when he quotes Bob Dylan waxing lovingly about forgotten folkie Karen Dalton and her Billie Holiday-like voice.

The book's alphabetical listing creates a serendipity that's both delightful and insightful, as when, say, Moon's list moves from Kurt Weill to Gillian Welch to

Kanye West. Or from Tito Puente to Queen to spacey jazz man Sun Ra.-- Rick de Yampert Entertainment writer

People: Welles, Orson Moon, Tom

Publication title: Daytona Beach News - Journal, The; Daytona Beach, Fla.

First page: D.2

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Oct 30, 2008

Section: Section D

Publisher: Halifax Media Group

Place of publication: Daytona Beach, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Daytona Beach, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 21587353

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 382970310

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/382970310?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008, The News-Journal Corporation)

Last updated: 2017-11-06

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 267 of 313

Masks and Art From Colorful Puerto Rican Festival Shown

Author: Freeman, Michael W

Publication info: The Ledger ; Lakeland, Fla. [Lakeland, Fla]30 Oct 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Known as 'vejigantes' -- or Puerto Rican devil -- masks, they have a very long tradition indeed. As the exhibit's program book noted, 'The origin of the Puerto Rican carnival and mask-making traditions is traced back to the XVII Century with the participation of vejigantes in public celebrations in the city of San Juan. Through history, the vejigantes and their masks evolved and became an integral part of Puerto Rican culture and national pride.'

'We said one day, 'Hey, why don't we have an exhibition," [Ana Bartolomei] said. 'I started with contacting different artists and collectors.'

'She paints everything with such precision and care,' Bartolomei said. 'It's a fascinating thing to watch being done.'

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

MAITLAND | In this country, the revelry, excitement and lavishness of celebrating Mardi Grass in New Orleans is well-known and enjoyed by massive crowds. But it's not the only festival that takes on a splashy carnival-like atmosphere.

In Puerto Rico, Carnival Ponceno (Ponce Carnival) is celebrated in the town of Ponce in the south part of the island before the beginning of Lent, and coincides with the Mardi Grass carnival in New Orleans and the Carnival of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil. Carnival Ponceno has its own unique traditions, and one is the use of Mascaras, or the carnival masks that participants wear that illustrate a rich Puerto Rican folkloric tradition.

Those often extravagantly designed masks have been on display at the Maitland Art Center, part of an exhibit that celebrated not just the Puerto Rican carnivals, but also the artwork of a growing number of Puerto Rican artists now living in Central Florida. Several, in fact, contributed artwork to the art center for this exhibit.

'All of the masks are used during the carnival, which is on the same date as the carnival in New Orleans,' said Ana Bartolomei, director of exhibitions for the Maitland Art Center. 'This is a tradition that has been going on in Puerto Rico for hundreds of years.'

Known as 'vejigantes' -- or Puerto Rican devil -- masks, they have a very long tradition indeed. As the exhibit's program book noted, 'The origin of the Puerto Rican carnival and mask-making traditions is traced back to the XVII Century with the participation of vejigantes in public celebrations in the city of San Juan. Through history, the vejigantes and their masks evolved and became an integral part of Puerto Rican culture and national pride.'

In addition to wearing the mascaras, the carnival's participants 'used stilts and have long robes,' Bartolomei said. They would walk through the streets, scaring people with their vejigas -- an inflated dried cow bladder.

'The whole carnival has a series of events,' she said. 'It lasts a whole week.'

In 1999, the Maitland Art Center bought a vejigantes mascara created by Lilly Carrasquillo, who lives now in Orlando. The mask had been exhibited at Orlando City Hall. It eventually inspired the art center to create an entire exhibit around the flamboyant mascaras.

'We said one day, 'Hey, why don't we have an exhibition," Bartolomei said. 'I started with contacting different artists and collectors.'

Several agreed to contribute their hand-made mascaras, including Freddy Soto, who provided a papier-mache and ceramic mold mascaras that incorporates the Puerto Rican flag, plus ten horns sticking out of the head. Juan (Johnny) Soto, Freddy's brother, contributed a dragon-like mascaras, complete with its own horns.

'These masks can be used, but are really more for exhibition,' Bartolomei said.

Several others were on loan to the art center by Juan Alindato Garcia, 82, who is not the only member of the family to create mascaras and represents a grand tradition for these artists: passing on the skill to younger members of the family.

'This is a family thing,' Bartolomei said. 'They teach their sons and their sons teach the grandchildren and the nephews and so on.'

Alexis Torres Quintana provided a mascaras that resembles a fish, demonstrating how diverse the styles of each mascaras can be.

While researching mascaras creators, 'In Orlando I discovered two artists,' Bartolomei said. 'They are art teachers and also make masks.'

One was Carrasquillo, whom Bartolomei asked to 'make a mask for the exhibit, which she did.' Carrasquillo's daughter-in-law, Wendy Martinez -- who also lives in Orlando -- also contributed one.

'She paints everything with such precision and care,' Bartolomei said. 'It's a fascinating thing to watch being done.'

Paintings shown as part of the exhibit were contributed by several artists, including Pedro J. Brull, who was born in Puerto Rico and now lives in Central Florida, including his piece 'La Muerte Del Vejigantes,' which puts the legend of the mascaras to canvas.

The mascaras and paintings shown during the exhibit primarily reflected the artwork of three communities in Puerto Rico: Loiza, Ponce and Hatillo.

The Maitland Art Center, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, is at 231 W. Packwood Ave. in downtown Maitland and is open daily.

[ Michael Freeman can be reached at Michael.Freeman@theledger.com or at 863-421-5577. ]

<empty>

<empty>

Credit: MICHAEL W. FREEMAN, THE REPORTER EDITOR

People: Bartolomei, Ana Carrasquillo, Lilly

Publication title: The Ledger; Lakeland, Fla.

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Oct 30, 2008

Publisher: Halifax Media Group

Place of publication: Lakeland, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Lakeland, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 01630288

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 390223928

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/390223928?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 New York Times Company)

Last updated: 2012-10-14

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 268 of 313

Tradition counts more than beauty at a pageant

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Nov 2, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

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Full text:

JAYUYA, Puerto Rico — The seven girls posed, preened and smiled with all the energy of Miss Universe contestants, but this was no ordinary pageant.

The competitors, from about 6-years-old to 16, had just paraded through a downpour to a small stage surrounded by mountains, where they displayed elaborate outfits handmade from wood, plants or, in one case, jingling shells. And the judges also sought a special kind of beauty: those who most resembled Puerto Rico's native Indian tribe, the Taíno, received higher marks.

"It's different," said Félix González, president of the National Indigenous Festival of Jayuya, of which the pageant is a part. "It's not white culture and blue eyes; it says that the part of our blood that comes from indigenous culture is just as important."

Puerto Ricans have long considered themselves a mix of African, European and Native American influences. But since the 1960s, the Taíno — a tribe wiped from the Antilles by European conquest, disease and assimilation — has come to occupy a special place in the island's cultural hierarchy.

The streets of Old San Juan are lined with museums and research centers dedicated to unearthing Taíno artifacts and rituals. Children are taught from a young age that "hurricane" is Taíno in origin, from the word "huracán," while no Latin pop music concert is complete without a shout out to Boricuas — those from Borinquen, the Taíno name for Puerto Rico, which means "land of the brave noble lord."

The ties may be more than cultural. In 2003, Juan Martinez Cruzado, a geneticist at the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez, found that at least 61 percent of Puerto Ricans possess remnants of Taíno DNA — and nearly all seem to believe they belong in that group.

"The Indian heritage is very important because it unites the Puerto Rican community," said Miguel Rodríguez López, an archaeologist with the Center for Advanced Studies of Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, an independent graduate school in San Juan. "There is a feeling that it represents our primary roots."

He added, "It is our symbolic identity."

In Jayuya, a town of a few thousand people in the mountains north of Ponce, Taíno celebrations began decades ago. When local leaders discovered in the mid-60s that the town was named for a Taíno chief, they commissioned a sculpture to honor him. It was dedicated in November 1969 at the first indigenous festival, and every year since, the chief's stern eyes have looked out over the event from a perch above the central plaza.

At times, he has been forced to share space with the more modern forces that decimated his people. One of the city's major archaeological sites, discovered here two years ago, sits across from a Burger King. And before the pageant began on Saturday night, a performance of traditional Taíno dance competed with a pop song from Maná, Latin America's biggest rock band.

Mostly though, the Taíno influence in Jayuya seems to have merged with its surroundings. The standard Taíno sun symbol, called a guanin, is now carved into the Spanish-style plaza. Many of the crafts being sold at the festival, like jewelry, purses and soap, also included Taíno symbols.

And even the pageant is a hybrid. Actual Taíno women wore only loincloths. But with the influence of local teenagers, the costumes have become exponentially more extravagant A few years ago, organizers had to limit their size to 8 feet high by 6 feet wide.

Even with those boundaries, which, of course, the teenagers tried to push, the costumes amounted to a mix of homecoming queen, Halloween, "Last of the Mohicans" and Las Vegas showgirl.

Rodríguez, the archaeologist and a former judge of the pageant, compared it to Brazil's carnival. "It's a sincretismo," he said, using the Spanish word for "syncretism." "They mix different cultures, different beliefs."

Some scholars have scoffed at the concept, saying it is more a reflection of the joke that Puerto Ricans love festivals enough to have one for every cause or crustacean. But Rodríguez defended the idea. "You have to enjoy it because it's for the people," he said.

The contestants clearly love it. Natalia Fernandez, 16, said she had spent a month and half building her outfit, which required her to carry on her back a wooden Taíno dancer weighing at least 25 pounds, with a sprout above his head the size of a small coffee table.

Her bangs had been cut, her dark hair was straight (in a nod to what is considered Taíno style) and her naturally copper-colored skin made her appear as Native American as Chief Jayuya. But she was also 100 percent teenager. Asked before the contest how she thought she would do, she fiddled with her cellphone and said, "I'm going to win."

The event started an hour late, and the rain and competition seemed to surprise Natalia. She frowned under the downpour, looking chilled with a bare midriff and no shoes, as she glanced nervously at the girl with shells and starfish netted in a four-foot-high headdress.

But her fears were unfounded. After all the girls introduced themselves and explained their outfits, the judges called Natalia's name last, like all great pageant winners. Her friends and family cheered loudly from beneath umbrellas as she smiled and twirled for the digital cameras.

"It's about a beautiful culture," she said before taking the stage. "It's not about just beauty."

Subject: Culture; Archaeology; Pageants; Native North Americans; Festivals

Location: Puerto Rico Brazil Las Vegas Nevada Latin America

Company / organization: Name: Burger King Corp; NAICS: 533110, 722513

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 2, 2008

Section: world

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2221255919

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2221255919?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-08

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 269 of 313

November 3, 2008 (Page 26 of 32)

Publication info: Tallahassee Democrat (1949-2011) ; Tallahassee, Florida [Tallahassee, Florida]03 Nov 2008: 26.

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Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Tallahassee Democrat (1949-2011); Tallahassee, Florida

Volume: 103

Issue: 308

First page: 26

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 3, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Tallahassee, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Tallahassee, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 0738-5153

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2095783461

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2095783461?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Nov 3, 2008

Last updated: 2018-08-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 270 of 313

ADR Report: Latin American Cos Help Shares Close Higher

Publication info: Dow Jones Institutional News ; New York [New York]03 Nov 2008.

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International companies trading in New York closed slightly higher, as strength in the Latin American sector helped offset losses caused by grim data from the U.S. on manufacturing and auto sales.

The Bank of New York index of ADRs rose 0.4% to 104.67.

The Latin American index gained 2.2% to 213.92, boosted by news from early Monday that Brazil's No. 2 and No. 3 private banks, Banco Itau Holdings Financeira SA (ITU) and Unibanco-Uniao de Bancos Brasileiros SA (UBB), reached an agreement to merge. Itau soared 14% to $12.59 as Unibanco rose 10% to $69.47. The news of the merger pushed competitor Banco Bradesco SA (BBD), which gained 6.2% to $12.42.

Financial stocks elsewhere in Latin America also climbed, including Argentina-based Grupo Financiero Galicia SA (GGAL) and Banco Marco SA (BMA), which rose 15% to $2.05 and 12% to $7.90, respectively. Meanwhile, BanColombia SA (CIB) climbed 7.1% to $20.92.

Argentina-based real-estate company Alto Palermo SA (APSA) rose 6.7% to $5.93, partially offsetting sharp losses last week.

The Asian index climbed 1.2% to 96.96, while the emerging-markets index rose 1.1% to 191.18.

Volatile solar companies led the gains among China-based companies. Solarfun Power Holdings Co. Ltd. (SOLF) skyrocketed 35% to $8.24, as Gushan Environmental Energy Ltd. (GU) climbed 25% to $3.62 and LDK Solar Co. Ltd. (LDK) gained 23% to $22.41.

China-based ReneSola Ltd. (SOL) also gained 21% to $7.57 after the manufacturer of solar wafers said its principal operating subsidiary, Zhejiang Yuhui Solar Energy Source Co., has secured additional banking facilities with two of China's largest banks, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China and Agricultural Bank of China.

Another major gainer in China was Simcere Pharmaceutical Group (SCR), which soared 22% to $6.86, as it continued to recover from a recent major sell off.

Technology companies in Taiwan ended lower, led by made-to-order chip company United Microelectronics Corp. (UMC), down 15% to $2.09, and chip-packaging and testing company Silicon Precision Industries Co. Ltd. (SPIL), down 11% to $5.01.

Sales for Tata Motors Ltd. (TTM) fell 19.5% in October as the company said its domestic sales tumbled 29% and exports fell 16%. The Indian car maker said its customers were postponing purchases because of a lack of available financing and high interest rates. Shares fell 17% to $4.86.

The European index fell 0.1% to 103.27.

U.K.-based Carnival (CUK) fell 3.9% to $21.82 as Societe Generale lowered its price target on the cruise operator, saying it thinks its profits will reach an all-time low by 2010. The analysts added that "despite the high level of uncertainty in the industry Carnival still remains one of the most expensive leisure stocks."

Meanwhile, the financial sector in the U.K. finished higher, led by Prudential PLC (PUK) and Barclays PLC (BCS), which rose 7.5% to $11.15 and 7.3% to $11.51, respectively.

Elsewhere in Europe, Germany-based Infineon Technologies (IFX) jumped 8.3% to $3.39, continuing momentum created last week when the chip maker said it was still in talks to sell its 77.5% stake in fellow German chip maker Qimonda AG (QI), which Infineon once owned entirely. Qimonda, which is down 97% year to date, fell 8.7% to 21 cents Monday.

Looking at ADRs by sector, airlines were among the top gainers, continuing to climb as crude oil futures once again settled lower. Brazil-based airlines led the gains, with GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes SA (GOL) up 8.3% to $4.70 and TAM SA (TAM) up 7.4% to $11.36. China Eastern Airlines Corp. Ltd. (CEA) rose 15% to $14.80, continuing a rally it began late last week as it recovers from huge recent selloffs.

Meanwhile, many energy stocks fell, including Brazil-based Petroleo Brasileiro SA (PBR), down 1.9% to $26.37, and China Petroleum & Corp. (SNP), down 4.7% to $61.96.

-By Jennifer Hoyt, ; 201-938-2474; jennifer.hoyt@dowjones.com

Click here to go to Dow Jones NewsPlus, a web front page of today's most important business and market news, analysis and commentary: http://www.djnewsplus.com/al?rnd=2LpU7c%2BJJg4jXi7sz%2Fp3ug%3D%3D. You can use this link on the day this article is published and the following day.

(END)

November 03, 2008 17:02 ET (22:02 GMT)

Subject: Airlines; International finance

Location: United Kingdom--UK Latin America Argentina Brazil Europe United States--US New York Germany China Taiwan

Company / organization: Name: Simcere Pharmaceutical Group; NAICS: 325412; Name: Barclays PLC; NAICS: 522110, 523110, 551111; Name: BanColombia SA; NAICS: 522110; Name: Prudential PLC; NAICS: 524113, 524126; Name: Tata Motors Ltd; NAICS: 336111; Name: Agricultural Bank of China; NAICS: 522110; Name: Qimonda AG; NAICS: 334413; Name: Banco Bradesco SA; NAICS: 522110; Name: Grupo Financiero Galicia SA; NAICS: 551111; Name: GOL Linhas Aereas Inteligentes SA; NAICS: 481111; Name: Precision Industries; NAICS: 423840; Name: United Microelectronics Corp; NAICS: 334413; Name: Uniao de Bancos Brasileiros SA; NAICS: 551111; Name: Societe Generale; NAICS: 522110, 522120, 523110, 523120

Publication title: Dow Jones Institutional News; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 3, 2008

Publisher: Dow Jones & Company Inc

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2248402017

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2248402017?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Dow Jones & Company Inc Nov 3, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-28

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 271 of 313

Rio de Janeiro: Koni Stores

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Nov 6, 2008.

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Now spreading across Brazil is a chain of tiny sushi shops that glow like radioactive salmon.

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Now spreading across Brazil: a chain of tiny sushi shops that glow like radioactive salmon and became a sensation in Rio de Janeiro soon after the first outpost opened in the chic Leblon neighborhood in late 2006.

The city’s university students and 20-somethings flock there after-hours for temaki sushi, what we would call hand rolls and what they have taken to calling “cones,” and have elevated it to a post-clubbing snack on a par with pizza. By early 2008, there were a dozen Koni Stores, all extraordinarily orange and most open late on weekend nights. Limited seating makes them good places to hang out and be seen, but not for too long. One of the 20-something founders, Michel Jager, noted that the bright color scheme was chosen not just for its salmon hue but to induce quick customer turnover.

The cones, pronounced KO-nees, like the stores, are available in about 20 varieties, from the simple tuna (7.50 Brazilian reais, or about $3.40 at 2.25 reais to $1) to the tempura shrimp and the krips, made with salmon, crunchy wasabi peas and crispy fried leeks, each 9 reais. And they come with a pedigree: the menu was created by the Japanese-Brazilian chef Nao Hara, whose restaurant, Shin Miura, is consistently rated one of the city’s best.

In March of this year, Grupo Umbria — a Brazilian restaurant conglomerate — snapped up the young company and began to expand nationwide. There are now 21 stores, including one in the beach resort of Búzios; two in the capital, Brasília; and one in the Carnival hub of Salvador. Nov. 10 is the scheduled opening of a branch in Curitiba, the first Koni in southern Brazil, and the first three São Paulo Konis are scheduled to open by year’s end.

Koni is not just for the health-conscious and sushi-loving: it also serves dessert cones — the wafery ice-cream kind — stuffed with sweet rice and sinful-tasting fillings like caramelized banana or strawberry with Nutella. And in a stroke of extreme good taste, the Koni Stores skip chopp, the traditional draft beer of Brazilian bars, and serve locally brewed Devassa and Sol, a Mexican import, for those partiers who still need a nightcap.

For locations, see www.konistore.com.br and click on “lojas.”

Location: Brazil Rio de Janeiro Brazil

Identifier / keyword: Travel and Vacations Brazil Kugel, Seth Sushi Carnival (Pre-Lenten) Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) ATOMIC ENERGY Seafood Restaurants Japan Umbria (Italy) Salvador (Brazil) Curitiba (Brazil) Mexico

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 6, 2008

Section: travel

Publisher: New York Tim es Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2221249232

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2221249232?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-08

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 272 of 313

Power 100

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Footwear News : FN ; Los Angeles  Vol. 64, Iss. 43,  (Nov 10, 2008): n/a.

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POWER 100

Nothing tests the mettle of a footwear exec like a downturn in the economy, and this year's Power 100 list reflects the trials and triumphs of leaders coping with unprecedented financial challenges. Unlike past years, when executives contended mainly with company-specific issues, everyone on this year's roster faced the same historic obstacle.

Some shined, such as Foot Locker's Matt Serra, who turned an $18 million profit for the firm's most recent quarter, reversing a year-ago loss. Others fell far in the ranking, like Crocs' Ron Snyder, who has yet to mount a worthy follow-up to the company's wildly successful clog.

It should be noted, however, that rankings don't always tell the whole story. In some cases, execs may have fallen on the list through no fault of their own. New players including Nicholas Kirkwood and the duo behind Creative Recreation were added, while others were removed, sometimes causing shifts that don't necessarily reflect performance.

To weigh the power potential of each entrant, Footwear News looked at tangible metrics sales volumes, earnings, new store openings, new product launches and the general health of the companies. We also studied the more elusive elements, such as industry influence, the ability to set trends, make headlines and create consumer excitement. Read on for the industry's leading retailers and vendors, tastemakers and trendsetters.

__ PAGE

Atwood, Brian__ 39

Belk, Tim__ 39

Bensadoun, Aldo__ 37

Blahnik, Manolo__ 20

Boyle, Tim__ 42

Burke, Kevin__ 46

Campbell, Robert__ 36

Camuto, Vince__ 24

Card, Wes__ 20

Clifford, Neil__ 32

Cofinco, Richard__ 49

Cohen, Alan__ 26

Cohen, Andrew__ 20

Cole, Kenneth__ 28

Cole, Neil__ 28

Davis, Jim__ 19

Della Valle, Diego__ 26

DeMartini, Rob__ 19

Dennis, Bob__ 24

Dillard, William__ 40

Fadlon, Isack__ 32

Ferragamo, Massimo__ 39

Ferre, Deborah__ 28

Feshbach, Andrew__ 44

Field, Patricia__ 39

Fisher, Marc__ 43

Ford, Tom__ 41

Franchini, Marco__ 39

Frankfort, Lew__ 28

Fromm, Ron__ 18

George, Mike__ 36

Goldman, Bob__ 40

Greenberg, Michael__ 20

Greenberg, Robert__ 20

Hainer, Herbert__ 19

Hardy, Pierre__ 30

Harris, Peter__ 32

Harrison, Gilbert__ 36

Hassan, Sam__ 34

Hassan, Tarek__ 34

Hoffman, Brendan__ 41

Hsieh, Tony__ 22

Infantino, Robert__ 40

Issler, Jim__ 32

Jackson, David__ 22

Jacobs, Marc__ 24

Keledjian, Haro__ 44

Keledjian, Khajak__ 44

Kilgore, Marcia__ 46

Kirkwood, Nicholas__ 37

Knight, Phil__ 18

Kors, Michael__ 34

Krakoff, Reed__ 28

Krueger, Blake__ 20

Lauren, Ralph__ 39

Louboutin, Christian__ 19

Lundgren, Terry__ 18

Lyon, Glenn__ 26

Madden, Steve__ 28

Malkemus, George__ 20

Mangione, Peter__ 46

Martinez, Angel__ 30

Massenet, Natalie__ 47

Mellon, Tamara__ 22

Meyrowitz, Carol__ 34

Montgomery, Lawrence__ 30

Morton, Doug__ 36

Murphy, Glenn__ 46

Nand, Robert__ 49

Nelson, Tom__ 47

Nichols, Steven__ 39

Nordstrom, Blake__ 18

Nordstrom, Pete__ 18

O'Riordan, Tom__ 43

Oda, Nobuo__ 30

Ottomanelli, Vincent__ 39

Ouaknine, Joe__ 45

Parker, Mark__ 18

Parker, Sarah Jessica__ 39

Pennington, Hal__ 24

Pinault, Franois-Henri__ 24

Plank, Kevin__ 41

Pliner, Donald__ 43

Poe, Sherie__ 45

Polegato, Mario__ 42

Prada, Miuccia__ 26

Rosenfeld, Ed__ 28

Rosso, Renzo__ 44

Ross, Fraser__ 49

Rubel, Matt__ 18

Rubin, Andy__ 39

Rubin, R. Stephen__ 39

Sadove, Stephen__ 22

Schneider, Jules__ 39

Schottenstein, Jay__ 28

Schulman, Josh__ 22

Schwartz, Danny__ 37

Scott Jr., Lee__ 20

Senizergues, Pierre Andr__ 47

Serra, Matt__ 19

Shanley, John__ 36

Silver, Patti__ 34

Silver, Stanley__ 34

Silvera, Jack__ 41

Silverstein, Scott__ 43

Snyder, Ron__ 34

Stack, Edward__ 39

Sullivan, Diane__ 18

Swartz, Jeffrey__ 26

Tansky, Burt__ 19

Tarica, Jim__ 37

Tarica, Larry__ 37

Tucker, Robert__ 40

Turner, Jerry__ 43

Ullman, Myron__ 32

Ulrich, Robert__ 26

Varvatos, John__ 41

Wasserman, Danny__ 37

Weaver, Wayne__ 42

Weber, Jim__ 49

Weitzman, Stuart__ 30

Wiseman, Eric__ 24

Zaken, David__ 49

Zanotti, Giuseppe__ 22

Zeitz, Jochen__ 24

1. Phil Knight, Mark Parker

Chairman; President, CEO; Nike

2007 Rank: 1

Heavy is the head that wears the crown. Though it is the reigning king of the shoe industry, Nike still has its challengers. Plus, the economy is having an impact: For the company's first quarter of fiscal 2009, Nike reported a 10 percent drop in net income to $510.5 million, while revenues increased 17 percent to $5.4 billion. Still, Knight, 70, and Parker, 52, show no sign of retreating or slowing product introductions. For the Olympic Games in Beijing this summer, the athletic giant created original shoes for every event, including product featuring the much-hyped Flywire technology. Nike also opened Finish Line Ltd., a new specialty running concept shop with Finish Line. To increase its sustainable product assortment, the company is expanding its Considered designs into six major categories and two subcategories for spring '09. This year, the execs celebrated Converse's 100th anniversary and are preparing a new line with tennis superstar Maria Sharapova for the Cole Haan brand. Footwear revenues have been up across the board, and Nike initiated a $5 billion stock buyback in September.

Power Players: Charlie Denson, president, Nike Brand; James Seuss, CEO, Cole Haan; Jack Boys, CEO, Converse

2. Blake Nordstrom, Pete Nordstrom

President; EVP, President, merchandising; Nordstrom

2007 Rank: 2

Like many retailers, Nordstrom is having a tough year. But when you're a Nordstrom, you have a pretty good name to run on. Despite slashing the company's 2008 full-year earnings outlook, brothers Blake, 48, and Pete, 46, are positioning the department store chain for a post-downturn surge through aggressive store openings. For 2009, the retailer is aiming to take share of the growing off-price market and courting more frugal fashionistas by expanding its discount Nordstrom Rack division, including new outlets in East Palo Alto, Calif., and Southlake, Texas, among others.

Power Players: Jack Minuk, EVP, GMM, footwear; Jeffrey Kalinsky, director, designer merchandising

3. Matt Rubel

President, CEO; Collective Brands Inc.

2007 Rank: 4

Under Rubel, 50, Collective continued to become a formidable footwear force. In a down economy, the firm's flagship unit the 4,500-door Payless ShoeSource chain grew market share, thanks to trendy, low-price product. Payless is expanding internationally, with stores in Colombia and plans to open in the Middle East. At Collective Licensing, the focus has been on Airwalk, which has seen steady growth. But the news hasn't been all bright. The firm spent much of the year entangled in a trademark lawsuit with Adidas over the athletic brand's three-stripe design; the ongoing case has strained the bottom line. Second-quarter earnings per share were 13 cents (54 cents excluding litigation items with Adidas and another trademark suit with K-Swiss), while sales vaulted 30 percent because of the strong traction Stride Rite is having with Saucony and Sperry Top-Sider. While Rubel certainly has a full plate, don't count him out of the acquisition game in 2009.

Power Players: LuAnn Via, president, CEO, Payless ShoeSource; Gregg Ribbat, president, CEO, Stride Rite; Bruce Pettet, president, CEO, Collective Licensing

4. Ron Fromm, Diane Sullivan

CEO, Chairman; President; Brown Shoe

2007 Rank: 5

The floundering economy hasn't stopped Fromm, 57, and Sullivan, 52, from making buzz-worthy deals. Most notably, they expanded the firm's celebrity lineup by partnering with singers Fergie and Reba McEntire. The execs also veered into high-end territory through a licensing agreement with Vera Wang's Lavender label and a Via Spiga runway collaboration with Vena Cava. Meanwhile, the Brown New York brands are surging, and Edelman Shoe, of which the company owns a 42 percent stake, is having a strong year. But Naturalizer and LifeStride, haven't fared as well, due to weakness in department stores. On the retail side, Famous Footwear was relocated from Madison, Wis., to St. Louis to unite the retail and wholesale segments. But the family footwear chain, which had 1,127 stores at the end of the second quarter, wasn't immune to tightfisted consumers. In early 2009, expect Brown to roll out its Fergie line to department stores and launch Fergalicious and Libby Edelman at Famous Footwear.

Power Players: Joe Wood, president, Famous Footwear, Brown Shoe retail; Rick Ausick, president, Brown New York wholesale; Gary Rich, president, Brown St. Louis wholesale

5. Terry Lundgren

Chairman, President, CEO; Macy's Inc.

2007 Rank: 3

After 150 years in business, Macy's is still giving footwear a starring role in 813 doors and adding some big names to promote them. Last year, Lundgren, 56, embarked on a celebrity-fueled ad campaign with a group of commercial vignettes featuring Carlos Santana and stiletto-obsessed songstress Mariah Carey, among others. The campaign added other names this year. And if stars weren't enough, the retailer recently unveiled a partnership with Vince Camuto to produce a new INC International Concepts footwear line and plans in 2009 to open new stores in Kansas City, Mo., Dallas and Phoenix. Meanwhile, Macy's 40-door Bloomingdale's unit will take its Soho store format to places such as Santa Monica, Calif., and Washington, D.C., in 2010 and 2011, respectively. And it lands in Dubai in 2010. But will it be enough to lift the company's sagging share prices?

Power Player: Michael Gould, chairman, CEO, Bloomingdale's

6. Christian Louboutin

Designer, Principal; Christian Louboutin

2007 Rank: 7

Red-hot passion for Louboutin's red soles isn't showing any signs of dimming. Beyond a shoe cameo in the Sex and the City movie and continued worship from A-listers and luxe shoppers, Louboutin's sales are up double digits over 2007. The opening of the designer's six new stores, bringing his shop total to 15, also helped the business boom. Louboutin plans to open 27 more doors across Asia and the Middle East within the next five years, including a Singapore shop and a Dubai boutique by the spring. Additionally, the designer, 44, is set to launch a redesigned Website later this month and has his sights set on building the company's handbag business. He also hopes to expand manufacturing capacity.

7. Herbert Hainer

Chairman, CEO; Adidas Group

2007 Rank: 6

Adidas made headlines last month when Hainer, 54, announced a hiring freeze, pared down travel expenses and put the kibosh on year-end parties, due to the global slowdown in consumer spending. Add that to the brand's continued difficulty in integrating Reebok (now under Adi vet Uli Becker) and slumping stateside sales, and it's clear the athletic powerhouse is feeling the pinch. But there are some bright spots: Its sponsorship of the Beijing Olympics has triggered more growth in China. Also, the Adidas Slvr Label line and retail concept will bow this spring.

Power Players: Erich Stamminger, president, CEO, Adidas; Michael Rupp, president, CEO, Rockport; Becker, president, CEO, Reebok

8. Matt Serra

Chairman, President, CEO; Foot Locker Inc.

2007 Rank: 9

Serra, 63, navigated the 3,700-store retailer through rough economic waters this year, while improving the company's over-inventoried merchandise position, shuttering underperforming stores and, lately, limiting markdowns. As a result, in the latest quarter, Foot Locker posted a 2 percent increase in sales to $1.3 billion, while swinging to a net profit of $18 million from a loss the prior year. Most recently, Serra set his sights on the skate category, purchasing online skate retailer and catalog CCS for $102 million in October. And that might not be the end of the company's acquisition spree. Serra is likely on the hunt for bigger ways to spend the firm's $300 million in cash in what is now a buyer's market.

Power Players: Keith Daly, president, CEO, Foot Locker U.S., Kids Foot Locker, Footaction; Ron Halls, president, CEO, Foot Locker International

9. Jim Davis, Robert DeMartini

Chairman; CEO; New Balance

2007 Rank: 11

Under the leadership of Davis, 65, and DeMartini, 47, the athletic brand is branching out with a major lifestyle initiative. In fact, they've hired new creative directors and, in a unique business partnership with Nine West, created a co-branded sneaker and casual line that will debut this spring. But the execs are still making aggressive strides with runners, rolling out earlier this year a light-hearted Love/Hate campaign on TV, in print and online. Add that to international growth and the R&D center the brand opened earlier this fall, and the company's $3 billion sales target isn't so far out of reach.

Power Players: Anne Davis, vice chairman; Jim Tompkins, president, COO; Joe Casagrande, GM, lifestyle

10. Burt Tansky

CEO, President; Neiman Marcus Group

2007 Rank: 8

The Dallas-based group which includes 40 Neiman Marcus stores, Bergdorf Goodman, Neiman Marcus Direct and 24 clearance centers is plowing ahead with expansion and garnering much wattage from its shoes, though the economy has hit sales. The firm, helmed by Tansky, 70, has cultivated its luxe footwear presence through revved up marketing and personal appearances by marquee designers, including Manolo Blahnik. In September, the retailer unveiled a new Neiman Marcus in Topanga, Calif., and expanded its Atlanta store by a whopping 50,000-sq.-ft. Other expansions are already under way. The company, which generated 2008 revenues of $4.6 billion, plans to open five to six new Neiman Marcus stores in the next three years and will begin two more major remodels in fiscal 2009.

Power Players: Karen Katz, CEO, president, Neiman Marcus Stores; Jim Gold, CEO, president, Bergdorf Goodman

11. Lee Scott Jr.

President, CEO; Collective Brands

2007 Rank: 10

Just how resilient is Wal-Mart? Even in September, when Wall Street began to topple, comp-store sales at Wal-Mart and Sam's Club rose 5.8 percent to $36.2 billion. Meanwhile, second-quarter net earnings totaled $3.4 billion, up from $2.9 billion the prior year. Scott, 59, has said Asia is still a major focus of attention, with five new Supercenters opening in China in September. And the world's largest retailer is starting to use its clout for the greener good. Wal-Mart has begun demanding its suppliers adopt more eco-friendly manufacturing practices. But the news hasn't all been positive: Wal-Mart was taken to court this year in two high-profile court cases. The first was a trademark infringement suit filed by Adidas that was settled in September after three years of wrangling. And last month, Nike claimed the retailer infringed on its Nike Shox patent.

Power Player: Eduardo Castro-Wright, CEO, president, Wal-Mart U.S.

12. Robert Greenberg, Michael Greenberg

Chairman, CEO; President; Skechers USA

2007 Rank: 14

With age comes wisdom and experience with bad economic times. But all the retail doom and gloom hasn't stopped Robert, 66, and Michael, 45, from setting new sales records. A few smart, ever-so-timely endorsements with Brandy, Tori Spelling and American Idol David Cook helped boost company sales to $1.14 billion through the first nine months of the year. During 2008, the company acquired the Punkrose and Public Royalty brands, launched a subsidiary in Brazil and formed joint ventures in China and Hong Kong. Retail is also a driving force. By year-end, Skechers intends to operate 37 units, including a concept store in New York's swanky 15 Union Square West Building. An additional 20 to 25 stores are slated to bow in 2009. Also, the company is further developing its kids' business with a Heidi High Top girls initiative and will make an apparel push for next fall.

Power Player: David Weinberg, COO

13. Manolo Blahnik, George Malkemus

Designer; President; Manolo Blahnik USA

2007 Rank: 15

Blahnik may sit atop the luxe heap year after year, but his brand of timeless, sophisticated heels isn't entirely immune to America's financial pains. The company's U.S. business, representing 75 percent of sales, could take a hit if high-end shoppers decide to stay home watching old movies a pastime of the designer. To keep consumers interested, though, Blahnik, 65, and Malkemus, 54, have worked hard to keep the buzz buzzing. Of course, that got easier when one of Blahnik's classic silhouettes a blue satin bejeweled pump appeared in the highly anticipated Sex and the City movie last summer. Though the duo saw steady success across the brand's other styles and opened a shop-in-shop in Ireland this year, it was the simple blue pump that gave sales the biggest bump and reignited Manolo Mania.

14. Wes Card, Andrew Cohen

President, CEO; CEO, footwear, accessories, retail; Jones Apparel Group

2007 Rank: 12

Card, 60, and Cohen, 58, have had a topsy-turvy year. To showcase most of its brands that don't already have freestanding stores, Jones in early October launched a new retail concept, Shoe Woo, in New Jersey featuring Enzo Angiolini and Joan & David, among other brands. Earlier in the year, the company licensed to Steven Madden the right to make L.E.I.-branded juniors' and girls' footwear, which will be distributed at Wal-Mart next spring. Before that, Nine West teamed up with New Balance for a fashion-lifestyle footwear collection also set to launch in spring. Despite its new offerings, the economic malaise has pummeled Jones. The firm reported in the third quarter that net income fell an astounding 93 percent to $27.3 million, from $400.1 million a year ago.

Power Players: Jay Friedman, CEO, company-owned retail footwear, apparel; Rick Paterno, president, wholesale better footwear brands, Nine West; Fred Allard, creative director, Nine West

15. Blake Krueger

President, CEO; Wolverine World Wide

2007 Rank: 16

As Krueger, 54, completed his first full year as Wolverine's top dog, the company's financials continued to impress. Sure, he's benefited from the solid groundwork of his predecessor, but in the latest quarter, Krueger led the firm to increases in sales and income, thanks largely to Merrell's dominance in the outdoor category. Overall, Wolverine's earnings jumped 6 percent to $31.2 million on revenues of $318.9 million, up from $310.2 million. To keep its growth going, Merrell plans to roll out nine new stores in the fourth quarter. And in its second year in production, Patagonia Footwear has gotten off to a good start, with sales in the latest quarter up in the double digits. But the year hasn't been all business: The company celebrated Wolverine's 125th anniversary and Hush Puppies' 50th.

Power Players: Timothy O'Donovan, non-executive chairman; Scott Sible, president, Outdoor Group

16. Tony Hsieh

CEO, Director; Zappos.com

2007 Rank: 18

The man behind the Zappos machine has been out and about this year. While Hsieh, 34, regularly posted his musings on Twitter and talked shoes on The Oprah Winfrey Show, Zappos gained from the exposure. And the e-tailer gave consumers, who cut back on driving to stores when gas prices soared, more goodies to choose from. After introducing running watches in 2007, the site this year added electronics, housewares, cosmetics, luggage and apparel, which it will continue to expand in 2009. To accommodate the new merchandise, Zappos relaunched its site in August with a better search function. Next year, the company turns 10 and is likely to celebrate in a big way.

Power Players: Alfred Lin, COO, CFO; Fred Mossler, SVP, merchandising

17. Giuseppe Zanotti

President; Vicini SpA

2007 Rank: 17

Zanotti is used to seeing his shoes on the feet of his celebrity fans, but this year, it was his fishbone sandals in the high-fashion, high-wattage Sex and the City movie that reeled in the most attention. The cameo helped sell more than 3,000 pairs of the shoes and boosted 2008 sales, which Zanotti, 51, said are up 15 percent over 2007. The globe-trotting designer, who maintains accounts with Bergdorf Goodman, Saks Fifth Avenue, Barneys and Neiman Marcus, also nabbed two new licenses with boy wonders Proenza Schouler and Balmain. And he is adding to his already extensive international portfolio of shops. Zanotti boasts 52 stores worldwide, seven of which opened in 2008, and is poised to add nine more boutiques including doors in Boston, Los Angeles, Russia, Qatar, Singapore, Paris and Kuwait in the coming year.

18. Tamara Mellon, Joshua Schulman

Founder, President; CEO; Jimmy Choo

2007 Rank: 19

Mellon, 41, and Schulman, 37, are pumping up the volume at Jimmy Choo. As part of an aggressive strategy to bolster the brand's retail presence in underpenetrated markets such as Europe and Asia, the pair bowed an impressive 22 new stores in 2008, with another five openings planned by year's end. Alongside the retail rollout has been a move toward a bolder, more integrated approach to marketing that includes a new quarterly Jimmy Choo magazine and a major Website revamp slated for 2009. On the product front, the brand has upped its annual collection count to six, adding an edgier catwalk line, as well as cruise and pre-fall offerings, to better satisfy consumer demand. It also continues to venture into new categories: Eyewear debuted this year, and a fragrance is slated for next year. And if Mellon has her way, expect to soon hear the pitter-patter of Jimmy Choo children's shoes.

19. Stephen Sadove

Executive Chairman, CEO; Saks Inc.

2007 Rank: 20

It's been more than a year since Sadove, 57, debuted Saks Fifth Avenue's highly publicized 10022-Shoe salon, but the department is still garnering headlines and just as much praise. In September, Sadove took the Big Apple zip code to Saks' Beverly Hills, Calif., location, and similar plans are under way for San Francisco, Orange County, Calif., Phoenix and Houston. Internationally, Saks this year opened a location in Mexico City and has tentatively slated a Shanghai debut for 2010. Still, sales are suffering, declining 11 percent in September to $273.2 million, down from $307.3 million a year ago. Nevertheless, Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim Hel must feel pretty good about Saks' future, recently scooping up huge chunks of the company's stock.

Power Player: Ron Frasch, president, chief merchandising officer

20. David Jackson

CEO, Istithmar World

NEW

How the mighty have fallen. Since the resignation in June of Howard Socol (who held the No. 13 spot on our list last year), many observers are left wondering who's running the day-to-day operations at Barneys New York. At press time, reports suggested former Gucci exec Mark Lee was in talks for the CEO spot. For now, it's Jackson, the top exec at Istithmar, the Dubai-based private equity investment firm that owns the retailer. This year, Barneys New York took its unique concept to Las Vegas, where it unveiled a flagship complete with glitzy styles of luxury footwear labels such as Christian Louboutin, Manolo Blahnik, Fendi, YSL and Prada. Though the store has prime positioning at The Palazzo, Sin City's tourist traffic is way down. Still, the company plans to add flagships in Chicago and Scottsdale, Ariz., in 2009. While expansion is on the mind of Jackson, 42, so is the executive suite: He hired a search firm to find Socol's replacement.

Power Player: Julie Gilhart, fashion director, SVP

21. Vince Camuto

CEO; Camuto Group

2007 Rank: 22

After 30 years in the footwear industry, Camuto is still an unstoppable force. In late 2007, he entered the retail arena by purchasing The Shoe Box with NexCen Brands Inc. This year, Camuto, 72, forged a partnership with apparel brand Sanctuary and collaborated with Theory on its fall footwear collection. And his Midas touch with Tory Burch, who expanded her footwear collection, helped her snag the CFDA's Accessories Designer of the Year award. Camuto also spent 2008 making sure the Jessica Simpson brand was growing by launching an e-commerce Website for the label and debuting fragrance, tween footwear, dresses, lingerie, belts and cold-weather accessories.

Power Players: Bob Galvin, president; Louise Camuto, president, marketing, communications

22. Hal Pennington, Bob Dennis

Chairman; President, CEO, COO; Genesco

2007 Rank: 21

The outlook for Genesco improved in March 2008, when the company settled its long merger feud with Finish Line, exiting the legal tussle $175 million richer. It was then able to refocus on its core strengths, such as growing the 1,000-door Journeys division and continuing to work on turning around Underground Station. The firm reported revenues in the latest quarter that rose 8 percent to $353.1 million, though with a wider year-over-year net loss of $10.3 million due to expenses from the failed merger. In August, Dennis, 54, assumed the president and CEO titles, while Pennington, 70, moved one step closer to retirement.

Power Players: Jim Estepa, SVP; president, CEO, Genesco Retail Group

23. Marc Jacobs

Designer; Marc Jacobs; Creative Director; Louis Vuitton

2007 Rank: 27

Hardly any designer is as consistently watched as Jacobs, but in 2008 he defied his critics and gave adoring fans two strong collections from his own label, two important Louis Vuitton collections and a host of innovative footwear. This year, a mature, clean-cut and chiseled Jacobs, 45, also launched three fragrances, managed a growing children's line called Little Marc (a Bugaboo stroller design that will be released for Thanksgiving) and continued the retail expansion around the world. Early next year, four new stores will bow, in Madrid, Istanbul, London and Paris.

Power Players: Robert Duffy, president, vice chairman, Marc Jacobs International; Bertrand Stalla-Bourdillon, chairman, CEO, Marc Jacobs International

24. Eric Wiseman

Chairman, President, CEO; VF Corp.

2007 Rank: 28

After surrendering the posts of president and CEO earlier in the year, Mackey McDonald finally made his retirement official in August when he stepped down as chairman. Groomed successor Wiseman, 52, is now in full command of the company, which owns Vans, Reef and The North Face, among other brands. VF Corp. reported record revenues and earnings throughout the first three quarters of 2008. Most recently, the company boasted a 13 percent increase in sales and $2.2 billion in profits. What's more, its retail business clocked 16 percent growth for the first nine months of the year. International growth was paramount, and Vans launched operations in China and opened two stores in Shanghai in June.

Power Players: Dave Gatto, president, outdoor coalition; Stephen Murray, president, Vans

25. Franois-Henri Pinault, Jochen Zeitz

Chairman, CEO; PPR; Chairman, CEO; Puma AG

2007 Rank: 29

It looks like acquiring Puma is paying off for PPR. Growth of the German brand, as well as sister label Gucci, helped Parisian luxury conglomerate PPR, headed by Pinault, 46, increase third-quarter sales by 2 percent to 4.9 billion euros. (During the same period, Puma's sales increased 6 percent.) This year, Zeitz, 45, has made waves by taking a majority stake in Hussein Chalayan and subsequently handing him creative director duties. Then it launched its nautical collection, including the Il Mostro boat shoe. And of course, who can forget Jamaican sensation Usain Bolt's golden Olympic moment featuring a pair of golden Pumas?

Power Players: Frida Giannini, creative director, Gucci; Jay Piccola, president, GM, Puma North America; Francesco Russo, creative director, Sergio Rossi; Chalayan, creative director, Puma

26. Miuccia Prada

Designer; Prada

2007 Rank: 31

Prada, 59, is exceptional at timing fashion but not her company's IPO. The on-again, off-again date for the public markets is being shelved once again, at least until the economy recovers. Until then, the designer continues to expand her artistic horizons. She and husband Patrizio Bertelli invested $25 million in a new center for their nonprofit Prada Fondazione in Milan. Rem Koolhaas designed the exhibition space for contemporary art and simultaneous interactive events with other museums across the globe. The designer also turned film producer for two short animated films that coincided with her Prada collections, and created a short film for the launch of the latest men's fragrance. Away from the camera, Prada is still growing her business, adding 14 branded stores this year, totaling 220; another 20 are planned for cities including Munich, Germany; Athens, Greece; Hiroshima, Japan; Melbourne, Australia; and New York.

Power Player: Bertelli, CEO

27. Alan Cohen, Glenn Lyon

Chairman, CEO (outgoing); President, CEO (incoming); Finish Line

2007 Rank: 24

After a wild year, Cohen, 61, announced plans to retire on Dec. 1 from the company he co-founded. Lyon, 58, will then step in to head the 700-door Finish Line. After its failed merger with Genesco, the company was forced to pay $175 million as part of a court settlement issued in March. Away from the legal drama, Finish Line teamed up with Nike in May for a new multibrand, running-specific retail concept called Finish Line Ltd., with the first location in Phoenix. For its second quarter, the most recent available, the company reported a $13.1 million profit on sales of $353.3 million, compared with a $1.8 million loss on sales of $340 million a year ago.

Power Players: Steven Schneider, COO, incoming president, interim CFO

28. Diego Della Valle

Chairman, CEO; Tod's SpA

2007 Rank: 32

Della Valle, 54, is out for global glory. His Italian leather-goods company, which owns Tod's, Roger Vivier, Hogans and Fay, saw growth across nearly all its brands and categories, especially in shoes. The footwear category swelled 15.3 percent to 242.2 million euros, or $370.6 million. Fueling that, no doubt, was the widening reach of the Tod's brand, which landed in India for the first time this year with stores in Mumbai, New Delhi and Bangalore, followed by four outposts in both China and Japan, a flagship in South Korea, and stores in Rome, Berlin and Dallas. Next up for Della Valle: more sunglasses. In September, the company inked a deal with Marcolin to launch Tod's and Hogans eyewear for spring '10.

29. Robert Ulrich

Chairman; Target Corp.

2007 Rank: 30

After 40 years working for Target, Ulrich, 65, retired in May, but remains chairman until the end of fiscal 2008. Under his direction, the large discount chain has become one of the most recognized retail brands, as sales tripled and net earnings increased almost nine-fold since he took the helm in 1987. A big sales driver is moderately priced wares from a range of hip designers. This year was no different. Target added footwear collections from Loeffler Randall and Sigerson Morrison. A new partnership was forged with Converse as an expansion of the Converse One Star collection. And just last week, Target inked a deal with Alexander McQueen. In May, the company sold its credit card loans to JPMorgan for an initial payment of $3.6 billion, which represented roughly 47 percent of Target's outstanding receivables. But now the company is under pressure by an activist investor and hedge fund manager to spin off its real estate.

Power Player: Gregg Steinhafel, CEO

30. Jeffrey Swartz

CEO, President; Timberland Co.

2007 Rank: 25

Decaying revenue hasn't stopped Swartz, 48, from doing everything in his power to heal the company's wounds. He's hoping a new batch of better product and revamped marketing will grow Timberland. Timed with the Beijing Olympics, a TV and print campaign championed the brand's roots, while tying in its current green initiatives. Dedicated to reducing carbon emissions and using renewable energy, Timberland was awarded certification from the U.S. Green Building Council for the environmental sustainability of its stores. Swartz' group also sponsored a variety of eco-themed events, including four tree-planting festivals and the Together campaign, with California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger and New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg, which was the largest consumer campaign on climate change.

Power Players: Carden Welsh, SVP, chief administrative officer; Gene McCarthy, Mike Harrison, co-presidents, Timberland brand; John Crimmons, CFO

31. Lew Frankfort, Reed Krakoff

Chairman, CEO; President, Exec. Creative Director; Coach Inc.

2007 Rank: 23

When Frankfort and Krakoff offered mainstream shoppers a taste of the good life, business boomed. But now those same consumers are finding the price for accessible luxury a bit out of reach, given the economy's impact on their wallets. But the execs aren't scaling back they're looking overseas for new customers. So far it appears to be working: While income was down 6 percent in the first quarter of fiscal 2009, analysts still predict a positive year for the company. Coach is expected to reel in $3.5 billion in sales. Retail expansion has been the main strategy. During fiscal 2009, Frankfort, 62, and Krakoff, 44, will oversee 40 openings in North America, 10 to 15 in Japan, as well as about 30 other international locations. China is a major concentration, with 80 new stores set to bow there over the next five years.

32. Ed Rosenfeld, Steve Madden

Chairman, CEO; Creative Director; Steven Madden Ltd.

2007 Rank: 33

After the sudden resignation of CEO Jamieson Karson, Rosenfeld, 32, took over the job in the interim before being given the top titles months later. While Madden, 51, works on designing hip, moderately priced looks, Rosenfeld has focused on licensing deals and international expansion, which he's betting will ignite flat sales and garner clout with new retailers. So far, deals have been inked to produce footwear and accessories for Kimora Lee Simmons that will be sold exclusively at JCPenney, and the company will create juniors' and girls' shoes for Jones Apparel's L.E.I. label, distributed only at Wal-Mart. In addition, the two partnered with sisters Mary-Kate and Ashley Olsen for a high-end footwear collection under the twins' Elizabeth and James brand.

Power Player: Robert Schmertz, brand director

33. Jay Schottenstein, Deborah Ferre

Chairman, CEO; Vice Chairman, Chief Merchandising Officer; DSW Inc.

2007 Rank: 34

For Schottenstein, 53, and Ferre, 54, expansion is a priority in 2008. By year-end, DSW plans to open a total of 35 new stores. The 290-unit company also got into the e-commerce game for the first time in June, by relaunching DSW.com. The site features more than 2,000 styles and 175 brands. And with the economy sliding toward recession, the value-priced powerhouse stands to gain market share from department stores and independents. So far, financials are holding up. In the second quarter, earnings jumped 68 percent to $11 million, with revenues totaling $357.2 million, versus $348.7 million the prior year. But DSW is short staffed it's still searching for a new president following the departure of Peter Horvath in late May and last week reduced staff by 13 percent.

34. Neil Cole

Chairman, CEO; Iconix Brand Group

2007 Rank: 36

No longer working in his big brother's shadow, Neil, 51, jumped over Kenneth on this year's ranking and with good reason. Iconix posted a gain in third-quarter profits and plans to buy back $75 million worth of its own stock. More impressive, profits for the period rose 8 percent to $18.3 million, with revenues for the year surging 44 percent, to $162.5 million. The company's Badgley Mischka brand relaunched couture shoes under an agreement with Claudia Ciuti. The firm's international presence grew with the formation of a Hong Kong-based division, Iconix China, a joint venture with Novel Fashion Brands.

35. Kenneth Cole

Founder, President; Kenneth Cole Productions Inc.

2007 Rank: 35

The executive suite got a little more crowded at KCP. In April, Jill Granoff joined the company as CEO to oversee all domestic and international operations, including its retail, wholesale and licensing businesses. With the extra pair of hands, Cole, 54, has turned his attention back to the creative sides of the business, focusing on product and marketing. In 2008, the company's 25th in operation, it bowed several new retail concepts, including a shop-in-shop in Macy's Herald Square and a freestanding store in Tyson's Corner in Virginia. Internationally, it opened five freestanding stores and 13 shop-in-shops in the first nine months. A new e-commerce site also launched in 2008.

Power Players: Granoff, CEO; Richard Olicker, EVP, president, wholesale

36. Nobuo Oda

CEO; Asics America

NEW

When Oda, 60, took the reins of Asics' American arm in March, the company was already in a strong position, thanks to the stewardship of Seiho Gohashi (No. 38 last year), who moved over to lead Asics' Asia-Pacific region. The specialty running favorite is on pace to cross the $500 million mark in sales by the end of 2008, but Oda is aiming for double-digit growth each year for the next five years. To do it, he's pushing to make further strides in the specialty running space, but also to diversify with an expanded focus on apparel, including an eco-friendly line launching for spring '09. Oda is also eyeing company-owned retail opportunities and a new line of soccer cleats. In the coming year, look for further segmentation of the brand's fusion SportStyle line and fashion-forward Onitsuka Tiger sneakers.

Power Player: Richard Bourne, president

37. Lawrence Montgomery

Chairman; Kohl's Department Stores

2007 Rank: 37

If smart people quit when they're on top, then Montgomery appears to be a bright man. He stepped down as CEO in August, after growing the family-friendly retailer's sales by a whopping 60 percent over the past four years. Equally as impressive, during a time when other retailers are shuttering stores or going out of business altogether, Montgomery, 59, has driven Kohl's to add 47 stores this fall, bringing the company's total to 1,000 locations in the U.S. Among the company's rollouts during the past year were the Jumping Bean children's line; a licensing agreement with Hang Ten, a California lifestyle youth brand; and the debut of Fila Sport. The company also has upped its environmental efforts, with 45 new stores receiving the U.S. Green Building Council's LEED certification.

Power Player: Kevin Mansell, CEO, president

38. Pierre Hardy

Designer; Pierre Hardy; Balenciaga; Herms

2007 Rank: 42

With 155 global accounts and one of the most buzz-worthy names in the business, Hardy, 51, is riding a big wave. With continued innovation at Balenciaga and Herms, Hardy has made a name for himself even when his signature doesn't appear on the label. His designs for Gap's capsule collection this year, for example, earned a place alongside his eponymous styles in the closets of even the most discerning fashionistas. While his well-known women's collection generates the lion's share of sales, Hardy's sneaker business has also seen steady growth, with success in the limited-edition styles. And if footwear wasn't enough, the designer launched men's satchels and weekender bags for fall, with nylon versions coming next season. For Hardy, business is booming in the U.S., Asia and the Middle East, with the Central European market coming up fast. January will bring the opening of a new store on Paris' Left Bank and the brand's first U.S. flagship in New York.

39. Angel Martinez

Chairman, President, CEO; Deckers Outdoor Corp.

2007 Rank: 43

Deckers can't be stopped. Led by Martinez, 53, and thanks largely to the never-say-die Ugg brand, the firm's third-quarter earnings soared past analysts' estimates on a 53 percent jump in revenues, to $197.3 million. Ugg revenues alone spiked 57 percent. Deckers has been praised for keeping the brand hot by limiting retail distribution, while also opening choice Ugg stores. In the fourth quarter, it has plans to bow two in London, one in Beijing, one in New Jersey and another in New York. Among its other brands, Simple launched PlanetWalkers, a line of sustainable shoes, and Teva debuted a full line of performance and lifestyle closed-toe shoes. In May, Martinez followed through on his word that a deal of some form was likely Deckers bought high-end casual brand Tsubo for $6 million, and there are plans to relaunch it next fall.

Power Players: Zohar Ziv, COO; Connie Rishwain, president, Ugg, Simple; Peter Worley, president, Teva

40. Stuart Weitzman

CEO, Chairman, Designer; Stuart Weitzman

2007 Rank: 44

The economy may have slowed down both domestically and internationally, but nothing about Weitzman's firm seems to be getting sluggish. This year, Weitzman, 67, saw sales soar 15 percent after expanding his eponymous brand into 11 new countries and launching a new store design at his Madison Avenue and Beverly Hills flagship shops, and in Paris, Madrid and Barcelona. Though his shoes are sold in about 1,500 stores in 65 countries, Weitzman's boutiques are burgeoning across the U.S. and abroad. By the end of 2009, the designer expects to have opened 75 shops internationally up from 10 stores two years ago. Weitzman is also seeing success in his girls' and handbag collections, both of which were launched in 2007. The girls' line expanded into 12 countries, and handbags draw about 10 percent of sales in his shops.

Power Players: Wayne Kulkin, president, wholesale, chief merchant

41. Myron Ullman

Chairman, CEO; JCPenney

2007 Rank: 39

JCPenney is proving that there's always room for growth. The department store stalwart opened 35 stores in 2008, with all but four in a new off-mall format. But that number will drop considerably next year, as Ullman, 62, and team feel the sting of the consumer pullback. Same-store sales fell 4 percent in the second quarter due to lower merchandise receipts and more clearance product. Still, company brass is moving ahead. JCP launched the American Living brand, owned by a division of Polo Ralph Lauren, and introduced shoppers to the fabulousness of Kimora Lee Simmons. I Heart Ronson, a women's fashion sportswear line by designer Charlotte Ronson, is in the works for spring, as is Allen B., a sportswear collection by Allen B. Schwartz.

Power Players: Ken Hicks, president, chief merchandising officer; Mike Taxter, EVP, director of stores; Cindy O'Connor, EVP, family footwear, women's accessories

42. Jim Issler

President, CEO; H.H. Brown

2007 Rank: 45

The H.H. Brown chief isn't letting the 125-year-old firm rest on its laurels. In 2008, Issler, 60, inked a string of agreements that included becoming Geox's e-commerce service provider beginning in late 2008. Issler also signed licensing deals with Udi Avshalom of 2 Feet Productions for its oldest label, Gorilla, and renewed its license for the Browning hunting boot brand. And he signed another deal with retailer Daphne of China, which operates more than 4,500 retail outlets, to open 300 Sofft concept departments in its stores.

Power Players: Frank Rooney, chairman; Thomas McClaskie, president, Born

43. Neil Clifford

CEO; Kurt Geiger

NEW

Maybe it's the luxury shoe collections he sells, the department store shop-in-shops or the move into licensing deals. Or it could be Clifford's knack for opening in the right locations at the right time. Whatever it is, Kurt Geiger is being well received in Europe and the Middle East, accounting for an 12 percent rise in sales through September. Under Clifford, 41, the company has become Europe's largest luxury shoe retailer, operating footwear departments in major U.K. stores, including Harrods, Selfridges, House of Fraser, John Lewis and Liberty, together with Printemps in France and La Rinascente in Italy. In addition to focusing on expansion, the Geiger boss also orchestrated a $187 million management buyout, backed by private equity specialist Graphite Capital.

44. Isack Fadlon

Co-owner; Sportie LA

2007 Rank: 41

Fadlon, 43, is taking his hip product mix at Sportie LA south, opening next month a sixth store, in San Diego's Gas Lamp District. The store will feature a vault for marquee product from a dozen handpicked vendors and will host Fadlon's special brand of in-store parties a move that drove business at his other locations this year after partnering with the likes of Lacoste, Skins and New Balance. Coming up, the retailer is launching an exclusive Melrose sneaker it co-designed with Fila and is helping to relaunch 1980s brand L.A. Gear. Next year, a Website revamp featuring interactive elements will go live.

Power Players: Orna and Eli Amzaleg, co-owners

45. Peter Harris

President; Pedder Group

NEW

Riding the wave of China's growth, Harris continues to mastermind expansion across the Far East with all of Pedder's formats, although 2009 is sure to be more challenging for one of Asia's leading sellers of high-end designer shoes and accessories. So far, Harris, 45, has had good fortune with moves in Thailand, Indonesia and China, with highlights including Lane Crawford's footwear department in its first Beijing department store; the opening of On Pedder in Beijing, Bangkok and Macau; and a partnership with Christian Louboutin, who has opened namesake stores in Hong Kong, Jakarta and Singapore. But Harris continues to bring multiple top designer names to Asia, thanks to partnerships with Jimmy Choo, Stuart Weitzman and Anya Hindmarch.

46. Ron Snyder

President, CEO; Crocs Inc.

2007 Rank: 26

What goes up eventually comes down sometimes it even crashes. That's been the case for Crocs, whose shares plunged to $1.68, from $75 in the last year. And Snyder, 51, has scrambled to fix one mishap after another, from financial freefalls to legal tussles. Negative reports began late last year when inventory problems surfaced, and the news only worsened through the first few quarters of 2008, as domestic sales weakened due to constrained consumer spending and spring's colder-than-normal temperatures. All that prompted the company to slash its financial guidance and cut expenses for a lean-and-mean infrastructure, which included at least two rounds of layoffs. On the legal front, Snyder squared off with Skechers, filing a patent lawsuit against its Cali Gear line. Still, international business, chiefly in Europe and Asia, is propelling sales.

Power Players: Peter Case, SVP, retail; Michael Margolis, VP, sales, marketing

47. Carol Meyrowitz

President, CEO; TJX Cos.

NEW

Meyrowitz, 54, is steering one of the most closely watched off-price retail conglomerates. Based on the belief that today's economic tailspin will send consumers hunting for designer goods at cheaper prices, TJX has fast become a Wall Street favorite. Several brokerages have recently launched coverage or upgraded their ratings on the firm, which operates 864 TJ Maxx units, 805 Marshalls stores, 309 HomeGoods and 134 AJ Wright locations in the U.S. Shoes are also getting more play and advertising visibility at the company, thanks to its new Marshalls Shoe Megashop department, now featured in most Marshalls locations. By all accounts, Meyrowitz' work is paying off. Second-quarter net earnings more than tripled to $200.2 million, while revenues jumped 7 percent to $4.62 billion.

Power Player: Ernie Herrman, senior EVP, president, Marmaxx Group (Marshalls and TJ Maxx)

48. Michael Kors

Designer; Michael Kors

2007 Rank: 46

It's full speed ahead for the 49-year-old Kors, who plans to open two new Collection flagship boutiques in the U.S. Chicago and Palm Beach, Fla. and his first European flagship boutique in Milan in the coming months. It's all part of an ambitious retail push that will include a handful of shop-in-shops. Soon, the Project Runway judge, who dishes out pithy critiques to wanna-be fashion stars, will have 42 stores around the world. To show that the American designer, who first made his fashion debut in 1981 and has a strong celebrity fanbase that includes Madonna and Charlize Theron, is committed to Europe, he's opening a corporate office in Lugano, Switzerland, and a press office in Milan in 2009. Those should come in handy as he marches across the Continent, bowing 25 new stores in the next three years.

49. Stanley Silver, Patti Silver

Owners; Fred Segal Feet

2007 Rank: 48

Patti and Stanley Silver, veteran Hollywood retailers, are looking for the, well, silver lining. For the first time in the store's 38-year history, the business is in survivor mode, according to its owners. But Patti, 66, and Stanley, 73, hope their high-low merchandising strategy of offering more affordable styles such as Converse and Car Shoe will lead to brighter days. Before the economy had shoppers running for cover, though, the Silvers were doing what they do best: bringing new talent to the store. They have added high-end designers Max Kibardin, Jerome Rousseau, Nicholas Kirkwood, Alejandro Ingelmo, Auri, SeaVees and the Puma European Collection, among others. One of the store's most popular attractions continues to be its exclusive collection of leather sneakers featuring designs by a rotating roster of artists.

50. Tarek Hassan, Sam Hassan

Owners; The Tannery; Concepts

2007 Rank: 54

The very vocal Sam, 59, has talked Tannery expansion before. This year, he and nephew Tarek, 39, delivered on their word, though whether the new ventures are ill timed may come into question. For now, the retailers are posting double-digit growth in 2008, both in store and online, thanks in part to a new 12,000-sq.-ft., second Tannery location in Cambridge, Mass., a few doors away from the original. The new spot, however, has a more fashion-forward mix of product. An impressive, completely customized new store called Concepts also opened this year, featuring special makeups from brands such as Nike, Red Wing and Gucci and for added swank, it even comes with a recording studio and a special VIP lounge complete with a bar. A third, 18,000-sq.-ft. Tannery location will open in July, across from the Mandarin Oriental Hotel near Boston's Boylston Street.

51. Robert Campbell

Chairman, CEO; BBC International

2007 Rank: 52

BBC clearly has a license for success. With Campbell, 71, at its helm, the company continues major licensing deals with Disney, Marvel, Guess and Polo Ralph Lauren Childrenswear, to name a few. The firm is working with Kohl's on exclusive programs for Tony Hawk and Fila Sport, and continues to thrive with the younger set, thanks to an agreement to make shoes based on popular productions Hannah Montana, High School Musical and Iron Man. BBC has followed through on plans to increase its already expansive global distribution, entering Russia, Ukraine, Belarus and Poland for the first time. Now Campbell also intends to go green well, almost. He will make product that is 95 percent eco-friendly in 2009.

Power Players: Donald Wilborn, president; Tracey McCleod, president, BBC brands; Donald Lee, president, worldwide sourcing

52. Mike George

CEO, president; QVC Inc.

2007 Rank: 51

Headed by George, 47, QVC widened its reach in 2008, making it possible for customers to shop almost anywhere. The company, with annual revenues topping $7 billion, launched QVCHD, a high-definition simulcast of its domestic broadcast, as well as a suite of mobile services, including a mobile Website and text ordering functions that let customers find and buy products by text message. Away from the gadgets, the company announced plans to expand its international presence to Italy in 2010. With foreign operations already in the U.K., Germany and Japan, the new deal could add more than 8.8 million homes to QVC's current roster of 166 million.

Power Players: Claire Watts, president, U.S. commerce; Jeff Taraschi, SVP, jewelry, fashion, beauty; Tim Byrket, director, footwear

53. John Shanley

Senior Analyst; Susquehanna Financial Group

2007 Rank: 53

To put it bluntly, 2008 has been a news-making year for the stock market, and Shanley, the go-to analyst for footwear, is as in-demand as ever for his insights. As a 25-year industry veteran, Shanley, 64, has a good track record of calling them like he sees them. He follows 23 stocks from such biggies as Brown Shoe, Foot Locker and Puma with a market capitalization of about $62 billion. Now, as the economy continues its downward dive, he's keeping a close watch on firms with significant cash flow, predicting they will be better able to weather the economic storm than their peers. So far, he has said companies such as Nike, Wolverine World Wide and Genesco will come out positioned to invest in product development, marketing and expansion.

Power Player: Christopher Svezia, analyst

54. Doug Morton

Chairman, CEO; The Sports Authority

2007 Rank: 49

The Sports Authority's footprint just keeps getting bigger. Steered by Morton, 58, the chain planted an additional 37 stores around the country this year, bringing its tally to nearly 450 doors in 45 states and giving it more muscle as it goes toe-to-toe with rival Dick's Sporting Goods. On the operations front, it made a major move to improve efficiency at the store level with the chain-wide rollout of a new point-of-sale system. And while sales continue to slide across the sporting goods retail sector, Morton and his team have captured customers' attention with more exclusive product, as well as new service-driven innovations such as ski and snowboard lift-ticket kiosks, which were installed in two-dozen stores this year.

Power Players: David Campisi, president; Greg Waters, COO, EVP, stores

55. Gilbert Harrison

Chairman; Financo Inc.

2007 Rank: 55

Influential moneyman Harrison, 67, has wheeled and dealed his way through the year a not-so-easy task in a troubled economy. So far, he's helped hammer out Foot Locker's $102 million buy of catalog retailer CCS, which pushed the giant retailer deeper into the skate market, and Li & Fung's $330 million purchase of handbag firm Van Zeeland. But the financing industry's credit chaos will make brokering such blockbusters much harder. It's likely the investment banker has already seen a few would-be purchases fall through, as buyers turned skittish or simply couldn't raise enough funds. Harrison, who launched his firm nearly four decades ago and sits on various boards including Stuart Weitzman's will need to use his might to advise companies to lower their potential selling prices and convince buyers to capitalize on fire-sale prices.

Power Player: William Susman, president

56. Nicholas Kirkwood

Designer; Nicholas Kirkwood

NEW

When you're hot, you're hot, and few young designers set the industry ablaze this year like Kirkwood, 28. Since February, the design impresario has made shoes for a slew of runway shows, including Pringle of Scotland, Gareth Pugh, Zac Posen, Meadham Kirchhoff and Ozzie Clark. All that work paid off. In May, Italian powerhouse Aeffe SpA tapped him to design footwear for its Alberta Ferretti and Pollini brands. Then there is his own line, which saw spring '09 orders double from fall '08. At the latest round of shoe shows, buyers from Kurt Geiger, Le Bon March and Jeffrey all predicted Kirkwood would be the next big thing in footwear.

57. Danny Schwartz

CEO, President; Schwartz & Benjamin

2007 Rank: 58

Not only did Schwartz, 55, celebrate the 85th anniversary of his family's company this year, but he also oversaw several major initiatives at the footwear firm. The biggest was a deal to take over the Seven for All Mankind license that was previously held by Killick Datta's now-defunct Global Brand Marketing Inc. The first full collection is set to debut for fall '09, with a few styles out this spring. Schwartz also propelled the company into the digital arena this year, personally overseeing the launch of Daniblack.com, a virtual e-commerce site for the company's own label, Daniblack. Another strong performer at the firm is the Diane von Furstenberg collection, which hit stores last spring and is expected to grow further in the coming seasons.

Power Players: Steve Shapiro, group president; Barbara Schwartz, director, product development

58. Aldo Bensadoun

Founder, CEO; Aldo

2007 Rank: 50

Bensadoun, 69, quietly runs the privately held Aldo Group from Montreal, operating Aldo, Aldo Accessories, FeetFirst (known as First in the U.S.), Spring, Globo and Little Burgundy throughout the world. Two years ago, he began rebranding Transit stores into Spring, with lower-priced offerings. Whether it was luck or a hunch about an economic cloud, the timing couldn't have been better. Spring is a major area of growth for the company, which plans to open 40 to 60 international franchises and 50 to 100 stores in the U.S. over the next five years. Separately, all Stoneridge locations will be known as Little Burgundy by next fall. According to reports, the renaming is an attempt to heighten perception about that store, which carries brands such as Nike and Ugg. But Bensadoun hasn't forgotten the flagship, expanding Aldo to more than 800 stores in 40 countries.

Power Players: Rjean Dionne, president; David Bensadoun, VP, global retail

59. Jim Tarica, Larry Tarica

Chairman, CEO; President, COO; Jimlar Corp.

2007 Rank: 69

In 2008, Jim, 67, and Larry, 58, oversaw the continuation of double-digit growth for Jimlar, achieving improvement in nearly every operating division, including Coach, Frye and Calvin Klein. Total sales at the privately held company are now approaching $500 million, according to the firm. In addition to opening a new, 23,000-sq.-ft. New York showroom in June, the pair has focused on boosting the international distribution of their brand portfolio. So far, they have significantly increased personnel in Europe and Asia, opened a showroom in Florence, Italy, and added a distribution center in Rotterdam, Holland.

Power Player: Jim Gabriel, group president

60. Danny Wasserman

Owner; Tip Top Shoes

2007 Rank: 60

Tip Top Shoes showcased a renovated layout this year, featuring a more uniform product display merchandised by brand. Wasserman, 60, reported steady sales this year, thanks to an unfaltering Ugg business in both Tip Top proper and the adjacent Tip Top Kids. Meanwhile, West, the sneaker hotspot run by son Lester, saw success in its first year, due to in-demand product from Nike and kicks from buzz-worthy newcomers such as Clae. Up next, the elder Wasserman is looking to grow the Web business by creating a more modernized site and has similar plans for Workshoes.com, which Tip Top owns. And as the commercial real estate market softens, Wasserman is considering a third Tip Top store in New York.

61. Patricia Field, Sarah Jessica Parker

Stylist; Actress

2007 Rank: 62

While much of the buzz has faded since Sex and the City hit the big screen this summer, the September DVD release and professional projects of Field, 66, and Parker, 43, have kept the stylish ladies securely on the fashion map. In May, costume designer Field launched her second footwear collection for Payless to coincide with movie's U.S. opening, in addition to styling the discount retailer's magazine ads and commercials. She also introduced a line of apparel and accessories for HSN that is sold at British mega-chain Marks & Spencer and at Myer in Australia. Parker, meanwhile, continues to develop her Bitten fashion line for Steve & Barry's, which was bought out of Chapter 11 bankruptcy by Bay Harbour Management in August.

62. Ralph Lauren

Chairman, CEO; Ralph Lauren

2007 Rank: 67

Ralph is on a roll. Since appointing two new execs to head up the shoe business last year, Lauren, 69, has ramped up his collections across the department store sector. The high-end women's business, spearheaded by Jerome Espinos, is growing its presence in Saks Fifth Avenue, and the upscale men's line will expand into Neiman Marcus and Bergdorf Goodman stores for spring '09. Meanwhile, the Lauren brand, headed by Joel Oblonsky, has banked a 165 percent uptick in department store volume and 91 percent increase in accounts this year. Polo footwear, a hot seller at Journeys stores, has added about 1,400 new doors.

Power Players: Roger Farah, president, COO; Espinos, president, Collection, Purple Label footwear; Oblonsky, president, Lauren, Polo, Chaps, American Living footwear

63. Steven Nichols

Chairman, CEO; K-Swiss

2007 Rank: 57

With its striped red-white-and-blue logo, you'd think Americans would show K-Swiss some patriotic love. Unfortunately, the company's U.S. business weighed down overall sales for most of the year, forcing Nichols, 66, to look for more clever ways to reconnect with consumers. In recent months, the company has gone beyond its heritage tennis looks, sharpening its focus on hardcore athletes with a sponsorship of the Ford Ironman World Championship. K-Swiss also went into heavy marketing mode with freeform runner Sbastien Foucan. On the fashion front, Nichols' team is working quietly on a sleek collaboration with Dutch architect Rem Koolhaas. The company is placing bets overseas, where it bought French firm Palladium this year for roughly $8 million. But it will need help: K-Swiss posted a net loss of $100,000 in the third quarter, compared with a $12.8 million profit last year.

Power Player: David Nichols, EVP

64. Massimo Ferragamo, Vincent Ottomanelli

Chairman; President; Ferragamo USA

2007 Rank: 66

At 80, the Ferragamo label is as spry as ever. Led by Ferragamo, 42, and Ottomanelli, 51, the storied luxury brand's U.S. arm has had a busy year. Amid anniversary bashes that included a star-studded party and retrospective at the Shanghai Museum of Contemporary Art, the company charged ahead with its retail expansion, opening five new branded stores in the States this year, including its first U.S. men's-only door in Los Angeles. It also debuted a watch collection and a fragrance to cement its status as a full-scale lifestyle brand. Additional category expansion is planned for next year of course, that could change as consumer spending turns ugly in the luxury goods market. And while the family-owned Italian company had been moving toward an IPO, rocky market conditions have stalled plans, meaning it's a wait-and-see game heading into 2009.

65. Marco Franchini, Brian Atwood

CEO; Creative Director; Bally

2007 Rank: 68

The dynamic duo behind Swiss luxury label Bally are having a good year. For starters, Atwood's touch was immediately felt as his first cruise collection for the brand enjoyed strong sell-throughs. And the second, a boho-themed fall '08 offering featuring on-trend slouch boots, paisley-print dresses and embroidered fur-trimmed jackets wowed buyers and press. Apart from the product, big news came when Bally took back control of its franchised stores in China and Japan, and then was bought by Labelux Group in April. With the visions of Franchini, 51, and Atwood, 41, solidly in place, it's no wonder Labelux found Bally appealing 2007 sales totaled 400 million Swiss francs, roughly $364 million.

66. Tim Belk

Chairman, CEO; Belk Inc.

2007 Rank: 56

Belk, 53, knows profits don't come by simply waiting around for an economic rebound. With a nearly 6 percent decline in second-quarter sales, to the tune of $829.3 million, the company commander inked an exclusive partnership with Sex and the City actress Kristin Davis, whose self-titled brand and footwear debuted at Belk stores this fall. And 308-door Belk has pressed for more stores, adding eight this year alone. In a move to expand beyond its 16-state footprint, the company launched in October a new version of Belk.com, which aims to offer more than 100,000 items by year-end, including footwear from Donald J Pliner, Jessica Simpson, Merrell, BCBGirls and Kenneth Cole Reaction.

Power Players: McKay Belk, chief merchandising officer; John R. Belk, president, COO; David Neri, GMM, shoes

67. Edward Stack

Chairman, CEO; Dick's Sporting Goods

2007 Rank: 59

Despite a difficult retail climate, Stack, 53, has kept Dick's Sporting Goods on a steady course. Sales in the most recent quarter jumped 7 percent to $1.09 billion, which the 357-door retailer attributed to more than 40 new store openings, better buying and expansion of its private brand program, including Adidas Baseball, Field & Stream and Reebok performance apparel. Also helping to lift sales was the late-2007 acquisition of the 15-store Chick's Sporting Goods chain, which snagged Dick's a sizeable stake in the Southern California region a key hub of the surf and skate markets. Looking ahead, Dick's has a big move on tap: Construction is under way on a sprawling new headquarters near the Pittsburgh International Airport.

Power Player: Gwen Manto, EVP, chief merchandising officer

68. Jules Schneider

President, CEO; Aerosoles

2007 Rank: 61

Schneider, 57, is trying to bring Aerosoles back to its roots. After briefly flirting with edgier product, the 117-door chain has returned to its strength in footwear, distinguished by classic styling and a focus on comfort. To help give the collection a cohesive point of view, Schneider hired high-end women's designer Ashley Dearborn Windsor as fashion director earlier this year, charging her with providing big-picture trend direction to the company's design team. It seems customers are happy to have the old Aerosoles back: In a soft retail environment, the stores posted modest comp sales gains of around 6 percent this year, and its Internet and catalog businesses are also up.

Power Players: Luca Bizzo, SVP, product development; Karen Sadick, EVP, merchandising

69. R. Stephen Rubin, Andy Rubin

Chairman; CEO; Pentland Group Plc

2007 Rank: 70

Though its Lacoste and Hunter labels both had breakout years, the biggest coup of 2008 for the Rubin family Stephen, 70, and Andy, 45 wasn't in shoes. It was in the pool during the Beijing Olympic Games, when its Speedo LZR suit helped American swimmer Michael Phelps make history and became a marketer's dream. As for its other labels, U.K.-based Pentland has had little trouble translating its Hunter boots into a U.S. retail hit. Since bringing the label stateside in 2006, Pentland has seen sales of the brand double each year and now expects to hit $10 million for 2008. Meanwhile, the Lacoste brand, which Pentland licenses for footwear, celebrated its 75th anniversary. In honor of its sporting heritage, last spring the label re-entered the tennis category with a collection of performance shoes for men and women.

Power Player: Sonny Shar, president, Pentland USA

70. Bob Goldman

CEO; Chinese Laundry

2007 Rank: 71

Two years ago, Goldman, 65, predicted the current economic crisis and began preparations to ensure consistent growth. To that end, he started developing new labels and pricing strategies. And that planning is paying off. Goldman has achieved a year-over-year sales increase of 18 percent in his existing businesses, and another 20 percent with new ventures. On top of that, he has refocused the company as a lifestyle business, diversified its product offering and grown its retail division. Beyond launching the CL, Little Laundry, Wash and the Dirty Laundry sub-brands, he as also established a thriving international private-label business and plans to revive the Amano label for next fall.

Power Players: Carol Goldman, corporate EVP; Alan Rapoport, president, Amano

71. Robert Infantino

President; The Clarks Cos.

2007 Rank: 72

At a time when the financial markets are out of whack, it's only fitting that Clarks is doing well with a line called Unstructured. Sales of the new collection doubled from 2007, and the company has debuted new warm-weather styles, including sandals, driving mocs and dress casual looks. Going forward, Infantino, 59, plans to build on the success of Unstructured, introducing a new bottom technology in the first half of 2009. Clarks' men's business also posted significant gains, delivering year-over-year double-digit increases in sales and market share. In addition, the kids' line, which launched last year, added another 40 doors to its roster and continues to show momentum. But the real place Clarks has gained a platform in the consumer market is in its branded stores. In 2008, it opened another 20 locations.

72. Robert Tucker

Founder, President; Shoe Show Inc.

2007 Rank: 64

In a money-under-the-mattress economy, the Shoe Show has a competitive edge with its moderate price positioning. What's more, with roughly 1,100 stores in 36 states under such nameplates as Shoe Show, The Shoe Dept. and Burlington Shoes the retailer has a pretty sizeable reach. But you'd never know it, since Tucker, 71, likes to keep a very private profile. Sources estimate the company rang up millions in sales last year, thanks to its efficient distribution and cookie-cutter store designs. Tucker and his team show no signs of easing back on their growth and expansion strategy, and plans are under way to debut a slew of new units in 2009.

Power Players: Jack van der Poel, CFO; Jay Manning, director, operations

73. William Dillard

CEO; Dillard's

2007 Rank: 65

Dillard, 63, recently found himself in a tricky position: caught in the crosshairs of dissident shareholders. Last month, activist investors called for his ouster, but the 63-year-old chief is pushing back. He's brought star power to the chain, partnering with country crooner Reba McEntire to sell her Brown Shoe Co. footwear. The 320-door chain, which boasts revamped shoe departments as large as 8,000 square feet, is also out to capture a bigger chunk of the young, contemporary footwear market. The retailer is also entrenching further in Arizona, where it is slated to anchor the Phoenix retail development Palisene in 2011. However, through early October, 2008 sales had dipped 5 percent, and the company had lost its slot on the S&P 500 Index.

Power Players: Alex Dillard, president; Mike Dillard, EVP; Joe Brennan, VP, footwear

74. John Varvatos

CEO; John Varvatos Enterprises

2007 Rank: 78

Rock 'n' roll designer Varvatos has cranked up the edginess of his namesake brand. In April, Varvatos, 53, opened his newest Manhattan boutique, located in the famed former CBGB music club. With additional locations bowing in San Francisco and Malibu, Calif., this year, his store count hit eight. Though parent company VF Corp. lowered its expectations for the fourth quarter, Varvatos is seen as a bright spot, posting double-digit revenue gains in the third quarter. Current total business with all license products, including the collaboration with Converse, is approaching $140 million. In 2009, Varvatos expects to open at least three more stores, launch the JV Star USA footwear line and continue expanding his dress shoe program, as well as the Converse line.

Power Players: Rebecca Blair, president; Christopher Donohue, VP, wholesale

75. Kevin Plank

Founder, Chairman, CEO; Under Armour

2007 Rank: 79

After tiptoeing around footwear with a tiny collection of cleats, Plank, 36, has finally tackled the sneaker market. In fact, Under Armour began 2008 with a multimillion-dollar Super Bowl ad, believed to be its most expensive one-off marketing splurge. Plank and team started taking on the athletic sneaker market with a line of performance training shoes, deepening its rivalry with Nike, which tried to preempt Under Armour with its own cross-training platform called Sparq. To prove he means business, Plank opened a second branded store, in Baltimore, and in July hired a new president, David McCreight, who had been president of Lands End and held high posts at Disney. Third-quarter revenues surged 24.1 percent to $232 million, with footwear accounting for $13.1 million, up from $2.2 million a year earlier.

Power Players: Scott Plank, SVP, retail; Stephen Battista, SVP, brand marketing; Raphael Peck, SVP, footwear, licensing

76. Tom Ford

Designer; Tom Ford

NEW

In 2007, Ford became the comeback kid of sorts, with a new focus on men. The well-received move led him to a CFDA award this year. In part, Ford has been lauded for his vision: bespoke-tailor-meets-fashion-company, resulting in beautifully crafted men's shoes. His namesake collection has been rolled out globally at retail. In June, he opened his second and largest Tom Ford store, at Via Verri 3 in Milan. It spans five floors and has an impressive shoe department that dwarfs his first store, which bowed in New York last year. By the end of 2008, the designer wants six franchised locations in top international cities, such as Zurich, Switzerland; and Qatar, Saudi Arabia, while shop-in-shops have already opened in Bergdorf Goodman in New York and Daslu in So Paulo, Brazil. Ford's master plan is to preside over 100 freestanding Tom Ford stores within 10 years.

77. Brendan Hoffman

CEO, President; Lord & Taylor

NEW

With the good comes the bad. That's what Hoffman, 40, has found since replacing Jane Elfers (No. 63 last year) in September. After a few weeks on the job, Hoffman's company was expected to lay off as many as 150 executives from its New York offices and branch stores. It could be the first of many cuts to come. Still, the retailer is trying to expand its 47-door base which now includes Canada as well as the shoe departments in the stores. The retailer has already added footwear by labels such as Juicy Couture, DKNYc, Aquatalia, Ed Hardy and Ash. And for 2009, it will be on the hunt for more big names in the footwear space, likely adding Kate Spade, which has an accessories shop-in-shop at the Manhattan flagship's recently expanded first floor.

Power Player: Liz Rodbell, SVP, GMM, shoes

78. Jack Silvera

CEO; Dynasty Footwear

2007 Rank: 74

Diversification continues to rule at Dynasty. Under Silvera, 65, the company has focused on offering a wider spectrum of labels in order to reach more department stores, boutiques and mass merchants. To that end, late last year, Silvera picked up Seven7 and London Underground. To keep business balanced, Silvera continues to build Dynasty's private-label program, an area he considers a key growth opportunity. And Dynasty is expanding its overseas offices and increasing sourcing from Brazil, India and Italy.

Power Player: Sari Rastula, president, Seychelles; Danny Silvera, PR, marketing, Seychelles; Steve Nissim, VP, children's, Dynasty

79. Wayne Weaver

Chairman; Shoe Carnival

Owner; Liz Claiborne Footwear

2007 Rank: 75

Sure, he's mostly focused on getting his team to the NFL playoffs, but away from the Jacksonville Jaguars, Weaver, 73, and President Mark Lemond are pinning their hopes on increased prices, better inventory management and expense control at Shoe Carnival. Like its peers, the company has been dented by curbed consumer spending. Analysts predict $11.8 million in revenues for the year, an 8 percent decrease from the prior year. Still, Shoe Carnival is trying to grow: By the end of this year, a total of 24 new stores were expected to open, and 20 to 25 additional stores are planned for 2009, while 11 underperforming locations will close by January. Meanwhile, at Liz Claiborne, Isaac Mizrahi was appointed creative director in January in an effort to rejuvenate the brand, and he is expected to lend design expertise to the footwear line.

Power Players: Lemond, president, CEO, Shoe Carnival; Cliffton Sifford, EVP, GMM, Shoe Carnival

80. Mario Polegato

Founder, Chairman; Geox

2007 Rank: 80

Polegato's breathable shoes don't appear to be letting the air out of Geox's sales. The company posted a 21 percent spike in sales for the first half of 2008, with expectations for more increases based on backlogged orders. Polegato, 56, also has strengthened Geox's global presence, announcing in September the start of a partnership with Belle International, a leading shoe retailer in China, for exclusive distribution in that country. During the last year, the company expanded its presence in Central and South America, and for the first time moved into Mexico and the Dominican Republic. Geox also has ramped up its advertising in fashion magazines and is continuing its children's TV campaign, now in its third year. While business is brisk, Polegato is aiming to raise the style bar with more fashion-driven product and styles designed specifically for the North American market.

81. Tim Boyle

CEO; Columbia Sportswear

2007 Rank: 82

Sales and earnings both fell in the third quarter at Columbia, and the analyst consensus is that the next three months will bring more of the same for the outdoor company, which last week cut its U.S. workforce by 4 percent. But Boyle, 59, thinks the firm is on solid footing. Even in times of recession, the outdoor market tends to do well good news for Columbia, as well as its trail-running power brand Montrail and winter-boot specialist Sorel. And having cut inventories, Boyle can focus on the company's priorities, such as growing its European business and its on-the-ground marketing efforts, such as the Columbia pro bike team at this summer's Tour de France. Other big focuses are new retail locations, new green initiatives and a partnership with the Discovery Channel and some of its biggest stars.

Power Players: Gertrude Boyle, chairman; Mark Nenow, VP, footwear; Tim Bartels, VP, global footwear sales

82. Scott Silverstein

CEO; Nina Footwear

2007 Rank: 85

Nina's chief is looking to the Web for sales growth in 2009, with hopes that a bigger online presence will help boost Ninashoes.com revenue by 300 percent. Ambitious, to say the least. The company relaunched its Website this year to incorporate full collections from Nina, Nina Dolls and Nina Kids, and Silverstein, 49, plans to work with retailers to streamline sales across other sites. Delman, meanwhile, is poised to celebrate its 90th anniversary with a fresh look after a brand makeover led by its new president, new designer and Bob Webber, who oversees all Nina collections. Alan Paulenoff also joined the company in 2008 as EVP of Nina Kids, charged with the task of revamping the line to focus exclusively on girls' collections.

Power Players: Mike Shirey, president, Nina Group; Robin Rothenberg, president, Salon Group; Webber, corporate creative director

83. Jerry Turner, Tom O'Riordan

Chairman; President, CEO; American Sporting Goods

2007 Rank: 88

Turner, 74, and O'Riordan, 52, are overhauling several of the company's key labels with new branding and marketing initiatives. Ryka's makeover includes a highly publicized, three-year partnership with Live with Regis and Kelly co-host Kelly Ripa. For the And 1 brand, the executives brought on industry veteran Rob Purvy to find the right performance-to-lifestyle ratio that stays true to the brand's streetball identity. Similarly, the company tapped a new design team for the Triple Five Soul label to churn out a more consistent product statement, while reflecting the brand's basketball heritage. In the action sports category, ASG has pulled off some gnarly sales with its X Games by NSS collection, which has injected new life into the skate brand and opened the door to future opportunities.

Power Player: Red Hovis, SVP, footwear brands

84. Marc Fisher

CEO; Marc Fisher Footwear

2007 Rank: 91

Fisher has spent the last couple years building his business, from the acquisition of Sigerson Morrison to a licensing deal with Marciano shoes, as well as expanding the label that bears his name. Now, Fisher, 50, is primed for international growth. He kicked off 2008 with the February opening of a new, 9,200-sq.-ft. showroom on Fifth Avenue and introduced the newly revamped Unisa line. Five Guess Footwear shops opened in the U.S. and across Asia, and a few more are slated for Europe, bringing the grand total to about 25 stores by year-end. Guess Men's footwear also expanded its retail presence to more than 700 U.S. stores. Four new Sigerson Morrison shops opened in 2008, and Fisher plans to add more in 2009. Fisher's namesake collection, meanwhile, is growing its partnership with Macy's and is striving to expand international distribution, open shop-in-shops and launch retail stores abroad.

Power Players: Susan Itzkowitz, president, Marc Fisher Footwear

85. Donald Pliner

Owner, CEO; Donald J Pliner Inc.

2007 Rank: 86

Coinciding with the company's 20th anniversary in 2009, wife Lisa is joining the design ranks, launching a high-end women's line under the Lisa F. Pliner label. The new collection is just one of several tricks Pliner, 64, has planned for the coming year. The designer will unveil a new selection of men's and women's footwear and accessories created specifically for international markets. Pliner is also stepping into the fragrance market through a licensing venture and is introducing his own candle collection. While the company is hush-hush about additional category extensions of the Pliner name, word is that other deals are in the works. And philanthropy remains a top priority for the Pliners, who continue to raise money to assist underprivileged kids through their Peace for the Children Foundation, which channels funds to a variety of organizations.

Power Players: Roxanne Ehrenberg, CEO; Lisa Pliner, fashion director

86. Andrew Feshbach

CEO; The Walking Company

2007 Rank: 84

The Walking Company continues to carve out its place as one of the premiere destinations for comfort footwear. This year, the retail chain upped its store count to 210 and added flagships in key areas such as Los Angeles, Las Vegas and Short Hills, N.J. A Madison Avenue flagship is expected to bow next spring, and Feshbach, 47, said he would eventually like to hit the 500-store mark. In May, he changed his corporation's name from Big Dog Holdings to The Walking Company Holdings, and in October, it was announced that all Big Dog stores would be shuttered. The Walking Company debuted Planet Walkers by Simple in July as part of a green campaign dubbed Think Smart, Be Planet Friendly, applauding sustainable initiatives by the company's footwear vendors. Despite the flagging economy, Feshbach claims to be on the lookout for acquisitions and is actively soliciting potential partners for joint ventures.

87. Renzo Rosso

Founder, CEO; Diesel

NEW

Rosso, 53, wants to send a clear message: Footwear is a major priority for Diesel going forward. The 30-year-old Italian denim giant took its shoe business back in-house this year after severing a 10-year licensing relationship with the now-defunct Global Brand Marketing Inc. (The company is still involved in a legal battle with its former licensee.) Diesel is moving fast to strengthen the shoe category now 15 percent of the overall business with a dedicated footwear team that has been rolling out dressier looks and pulling back distribution to make the brand more exclusive. To appeal to the high-end market, Diesel also launched the Diesel Black Gold line. The revamp appears to be working: Footwear is garnering more space in the label's own stores, and it's also back on the shelves of some major retailers, including Saks Fifth Avenue. Looking ahead, footwear is expected to get major billing at Diesel's new flagship store on Fifth Avenue, set for a February opening.

Power Player: Steve Birkhold, CEO, Diesel USA

88. Haro Keledjian, Khajak Keledjian

Owners; Intermix

2007 Rank: 87

Intermix, the brainchild of Haro and Khajak Keledjian, 42 and 34, respectively, turned 15 this year and didn't stop to party. The company continued its rapid growth, opening doors in Chicago, East Hampton, N.Y., Charlotte, N.C., and Orlando, Fla., all within two months of each other. Now the Keledjians have 24 stores. Intermixonline.com, the company's e-commerce site servicing the U.S., Canada and Europe, will become available in other countries later this month. The retailer continues to beef up its footwear assortment and added Alexandre Birman, Alejandro Ingelmo and Balmain to the offering this year.

Power Players: Sari Sloane, VP, fashion merchandising; Courtney Bennett, accessories buyer

89. Joe Ouaknine

CEO; Titan Industries

2007 Rank: 83

Ouaknine, 55, is out to prove that his company is a titan in the industry in more than just name. This year, Titan is on track to outpace last year's sales by at least 20 percent, and that's in a down market. In addition to the solid performance of L.A.M.B. and Betsey Johnson, this month Ouaknine is debuting Badgley Mischka Platinum. In February, the company will introduce Harajuku Lovers footwear and relaunch the Hale Bob line with a higher price point and more upscale styling. At press time last week, the company was close to inking a joint venture with a well-known luxe label that will add footwear for the first time.

Power Player: Brad Bailey, president

90. Sheri Poe

CEO; MBT Footwear/Masai USA Corp.

NEW

MBT celebrated a decade in business this year by increasing its profile with a number of new grassroots and advertising initiatives. Earlier this year, the company tapped ad agency Kastner & Partners to overhaul the brand's message and imagery. The result: a print campaign marketing MBT as the anti-shoe. Poe, who founded the Ryka brand, is also angling to connect consumers to MBT through events such as the Chicago and Rock 'n' Roll marathons, and the Sonoma Valley Film Festival. All this adds up to 45 percent growth over the past year and the addition of 200 accounts, not to mention the support of celebs such as Debra Messing, Katherine Heigl and Rachael Ray. Moving into 2009, Poe, 56, expects to broaden MBT's reach with a lower, less-aggressive outsole that maintains the brand's fitness properties.

Power Player: Rebecca Kotch, VP, marketing, retail development; John Strong, VP, sales

91. Marcia Kilgore

Founder; FitFlop

NEW

At first she founded pampering hotspot Bliss. Then she struck gold again with her runaway footwear label FitFlop, which promises wearers more muscle tone. No wonder Oprah loved it and 20/20 investigated it. And since its June 2007 launch, Kilgore has sold 2 million pairs and racked up more than 1,800 accounts worldwide. For Kilgore, 40, sales could hit $80 million this year. Her quick rise began with a $49.99 sandal called Walkstar, which sported a 1 1/2-inch rubber sole, stripes on the upper and a distinctive circular FitFlop logo. This summer, the Aurelia, a $165 gladiator sold exclusively through Kirna Zabte in New York and Net-a-porter.com in Europe, appealed to even more fashionistas. The proof: waiting lists.

92. Glenn Murphy

Chairman, CEO; Gap Inc.

NEW

Gap Inc.'s 2-year-old e-tailing venture, Piperlime.com, is establishing its niche on the net. The site, which caters to a fashion-forward crowd looking for an edited product mix, now stocks 250 brands. This year, Piperlime expanded into handbags and launched its first ad campaign in Vogue to raise its profile. And to sync the site with the company's other online businesses Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy the firm created an all-in-one shopping cart and checkout process. Murphy, 45, and his team also upped Gap's brick-and-mortar footwear presence this year, collaborating with hot high-end designer Pierre Hardy. Given Gap's focus on collaborations across the store, more footwear partnerships could be on the agenda for 2009.

Power Players: Toby Lenk, president, Gap Inc. Direct

93. Kevin Burke, Peter Mangione

President, CEO; American Apparel and Footwear Association; President; Footwear Distributors & Retailers of America

2007 Rank: 90

Both lobby groups had an active year from supporting the government bailout to monitoring the Chinese footwear industry. Burke, 51, and Mangione, 60, had the recently passed Consumer Product Safety Improvement Act on their agendas, dealing with implementation issues. Starting in December, importers of children's footwear will be required to show U.S. Customs lead-testing results from third-party labs. Even newer standards are expected in February. Additionally, the 2008 Farm Bill has sparked some concerns over new burdens for the footwear industry, especially import requirements for shoes with paperboard midsoles. And though the Affordable Footwear Act is still awaiting passage, the legislation continued to garner congressional support throughout 2008, with a vote expected as soon as the end of the year. The act could eliminate tariffs on roughly half the footwear sold in the U.S.

94. Tom Nelson

Regional Director; Ecco Americas

2007 Rank: 99

Despite a retail drought in the U.S., Nelson, 54, is making it rain Dane. Four Ecco-branded stores opened this year, in Denver, Orlando, Fla., Chicago and Annapolis, Md., bringing the count to 36. And another 18 outlet stores bowed in 2008. Nelson supported those efforts with heavier marketing, particularly in the golf category, which led sales for the Denmark-based company. Ecco continued its support of the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am golf tournament, including national television commercials. Its foray into TV also included the addition of more general spots featuring The Travel Channel host Samantha Brown.

Power Players: Dave Quel, VP, sales; Barbara Briguglio, SVP, operations; Linda Clohosey, VP, retail

95. Pierre Andr Senizergues

President, CEO; Sole Technology

2007 Rank: 92

Sole Tech is sticking with what works, and that means further investments in technology. That should help the skate company continue to debut lighter shoes, with better cushioning. It's a strategy that spans the company's entire brand portfolio, which includes Etnies, Etnies Girl, S, Emerica, Thirty-Two and Altamont. But there's still room for fun: Etnies recently released a new collaboration with hipster favorite Adult Swim, and under the leadership of Senizergues, 45, the company is using commuter programs, among other things, to maintain its status as the leading voice for sustainability in the action-sports industry.

96. Natalie Massenet

Founder, Chairman; Net-a-porter.com

NEW

Massenet, 43, is taking the luxury e-tailing business by storm. After coming up with the idea for Net-a-porter in 2000, the former fashion editor has found a formula that works: mixing high-end, of-the-moment apparel, shoes and accessories with flashy editorial content about the latest trends. The site, which was Jimmy Choo's first online partner, serves up exclusives on a regular basis and earlier this year, it sold right-off-the-runway Halston looks on the same day as the label's fashion show. Customer service is a big focus, too. London and New York shoppers receive same-day delivery on all their purchases, and the e-tailer ships to every country in the world. The attention to detail is working very well. Net-a-porter rang up $100 million in revenues for the year ended Jan. 28 and with an average of 7,000 new customers a month, it's on track to unveil significantly higher numbers this year.

97. David Zaken

Owner; David Z

2007 Rank: 96

When your name is on the store, your reputation is always on the line. For Zaken, 54, that means doing things in a big way which he has done this year, taking the David Z store count to 14 by opening six locations in nine months. For the first time, Zaken ventured into boroughs other than Manhattan. Exclusive product such as the Asics Gel Lyte III and the success of Ugg helped drive business across the board, and sales at the Palisades Center store in West Nyack, N.Y., jumped 12 percent year-over-year. Zaken is looking to open two more stores in 2009 if the right opportunity pops up and is also revamping internal operations with a new point-of-sale system and a Website overhaul.

Power Player: Yariv Mizrahi, GM

98. Fraser Ross

Owner; Kitson

2007 Rank: 97

Having tackled the celebrity-fueled L.A. shopping scene, Ross, 45, is expanding the Kitson footprint by heading overseas. He entered into a licensing agreement with development powerhouse Itochu to open 20 stores in Japan over the next five years, in addition to the small shop in Dubai that opened last year. On the home front, new doors will open in Malibu and Santa Monica, Calif., joining the four Los Angeles locations. Assortments of moderately priced, trendy items such as Minnetonka moccasins and special in-store, star-studded events helped lure local shoppers and tourists. Looking ahead, Ross plans to give Kitson-branded footwear another shot and to further license the store name to jewelry and handbags. That's on top of Kitson apparel, which just hit Macy's. If it all comes to light, Ross expects to register $60 million in 2009 sales.

99. Jim Weber

President, CEO; Brooks

NEW

Weber, 48, has found a winning formula for the company, not just focusing on runners but also homing in on serious, dedicated athletes. The brand, owned by Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway, has expanded its investment in research and development, started a green initiative and improved the label's position in specialty running shops. Still, there's more to come. While Brooks executives are currently searching for a new SVP of footwear (former head Fritz Taylor defected last month to rival Mizuno), Brooks plans to bring 3 million new runners to the brand in the next few years. Weber's team is counting on a flashy new online ad campaign and advanced shoe technology in 2009 to help them get there.

100. Richard Cofinco, Robert Nand

Co-founders; Creative Recreation

NEW

It's been an action-packed six years for Cofinco, 40, and Nand, 34, who founded the fashion-forward sneaker brand in 2003. Since then, the company has seen its line grow to include women's product, its offices move to downtown Los Angeles and its number of employees jump from eight to 40 since last year. And its shoes known for their funky colors, clean silhouettes and innovative materials sell to retailers that run the gamut from DTLR to Barneys, with whom they're launching an ultra-high-end collection this spring. The key to appealing to such a diverse retailer base, according to the company, is deep segmentation. In all, Creative Recreation has eight different tiers of product, which helps it garner buzz as one of today's hottest sneaker brands.

Illustration

Caption: Mark Parker; Phil Knight; Matt Rubel; Diane Sullivan and Ron Fromm; Matt Serra; Terry Lundgren; Herbert Hainer; Christian Louboutin; Jim Davis; Robert DeMartini; Lee Scott Jr.; Wes Card; Burt Tansky; Andrew Cohen; Michael and Robert Greenberg; Manolo Blahnik; George Malkemus; Joshua Schulman and Tamara Mellon; Tony Hsieh; Blake Krueger; Stephen Sadove; Giuseppe Zanotti; Vince Camuto; Hal Pennington and Bob Dennis; Eric Wiseman; Marc Jacobs; Franois-Henri Pinault; Jochen Zeitz; Miuccia Prada; Jeffrey Swartz; Diego Della Valle; Lew Frankfort; Reed Krakoff; Ed Rosenfeld; Steve Madden; Jay Schottenstein; Deborah Ferre; Neil Cole; Kenneth Cole; Pierre Hardy; Lawrence Montgomery; Stuart Weitzman; Angel Martinez; Peter Harris; Neil Clifford; Jim Issler; Myron Ullman; Isack Fadlon; Stanley Silver and Patti Silver; Michael Kors; Ron Snyder; Mike George; John Shanley; Doug Morton; Gilbert Harrison; Robert Campbell; Nicholas Kirkwood; Danny Wasserman; Danny Schwartz; Aldo Bensadoun; Jim Tarica and Larry Tarica; Sarah Jessica Parker; Vincent Ottomanelli; Tim Belk; R. Stephen Rubin; Ralph Lauren; Steven Nichols; Jules Schneider; Edward Stack; Marco Franchini and Brian Atwood; Patricia Field; Massimo Ferragamo; Robert Infantino; Kevin Plank; Bob Goldman; Brendan Hoffman; Jack Silvera; Robert Tucker; Tom Ford; John Varvatos; Wayne Weaver; Mario Polegato; Tim Boyle; Scott Silverstein; Jerry Turner; Marc Fisher; Donald Pliner; Andrew Feshbach; Renzo Rosso; Sheri Poe; Joe Ouaknine; Marcia Kilgore; Kevin Burke; Natalie Massenet; Pierre Andr Senizergues; Tom Nelson; David Zaken; Jim Weber; Robert Nand and Richard Cofinco

Subject: Manypeople; Power; Executives; Footwear industry

Location: United States--US

Classification: 8620: Textile & apparel industries; 2130: Executives; 9190: United States

Publication title: Footwear News : FN; Los Angeles

Volume: 64

Issue: 43

Pages: n/a

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 10, 2008

Section: 1

Publisher: Penske Business Media

Place of publication: Los Angeles

Country of publication: United States, Los Angeles

Publication subject: Shoes And Boots

ISSN: 0162914X

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 210412105

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/210412105?accountid=4840

Copyright: COPYRIGHT 2008 FAIRCHILD FASHION GROUP. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Last updated: 2015-02-14

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 273 of 313

Report | Rio Fashion Week

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Nov 13, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

[nyt-slideshow id=111308rioclaro w=390 h=650] It’s Thursday, so it must be fashion week in Rio de Janeiro. These days, it seems like there is a runway show happening somewhere almost every day of the year; cities like Reykjavik, Moscow, Barcelona, Lisbon, Medellín, Athens and Istanbul have all jumped into the fashion fray, looking to compete with New York, London, Milan and Paris. But these new upstarts — and some of the established fashion capitals, for that matter — could take a few pointers from the folks at Claro Rio Summer on how to put together a fashion week.<!--more--> <ul> <li>No one needs to see 200 fashion shows in a lifetime, let alone in a week. Claro Rio Summer has the right idea: schedule about four presentations a day, held in accessible locations and neatly packed into the afternoon hours, allowing for plenty of recovery time from the previous night’s exertions.</li> <li>Make sure that there actually are nightly exertions. In Rio, this means events in nightclubs like the Week, where tje punk debutante (and T Original) <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/indexes/2008/08/17/style/t/index.html#pageName=17originals">Alice Dellal </a>modeled for 284, a cool new young line by Brazilian über-store Daslu; dinner parties with locals like Dellal’s mother (and former top model) Andrea Dellal, Jackie de Botton and Fatima Otero, who had samba dancers in full costume performing in her garden; and presentations like the one Isabela Capeto had in her store, closing off an entire street for an impromptu carnival-inspired party.</li> <li>Set the tone with cultural events that bridge the worlds of art, entertainment and style. To celebrate the opening of Claro Rio Summer, the legendary Brazilian singer Caetano Veloso held an intimate concert at the rooftop pool of the Fasano Hotel; Carlos Miele showcased the band Afro Reggae, who was featured in the 2005 documentary Favela Rising, at his show in the Copacabana Fort; Bebe

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[nyt-slideshow id=111308rioclaro w=390 h=650] It’s Thursday, so it must be fashion week in Rio de Janeiro. These days, it seems like there is a runway show happening somewhere almost every day of the year; cities like Reykjavik, Moscow, Barcelona, Lisbon, Medellín, Athens and Istanbul have all jumped into the fashion fray, looking to compete with New York, London, Milan and Paris. But these new upstarts — and some of the established fashion capitals, for that matter — could take a few pointers from the folks at Claro Rio Summer on how to put together a fashion week. No one needs to see 200 fashion shows in a lifetime, let alone in a week. Claro Rio Summer has the right idea: schedule about four presentations a day, held in accessible locations and neatly packed into the afternoon hours, allowing for plenty of recovery time from the previous night’s exertions. Make sure that there actually are nightly exertions. In Rio, this means events in nightclubs like the Week, where the punk debutante (and T Original) Alice Dellal modeled for 284, a cool new young line by Brazilian über-store Daslu; dinner parties with locals like Dellal’s mother (and former top model) Andrea Dellal, Jackie de Botton and Fatima Otero, who had samba dancers in full costume performing in her garden; and presentations like the one Isabela Capeto had in her store, closing off an entire street for an impromptu carnival-inspired party. Set the tone with cultural events that bridge the worlds of art, entertainment and style. To celebrate the opening of Claro Rio Summer, the legendary Brazilian singer Caetano Veloso held an intimate concert at the rooftop pool of the Fasano Hotel; Carlos Miele showcased the band Afro Reggae, who was featured in the 2005 documentary Favela Rising, at his show in the Copacabana Fort; Bebel Gilberto sang at Adriana Degreas’ show; the designers Lenny Niemeyer and Oscar Metsavaht of Osklen joined forces to create a tropical club on Ipanema; Jo de Mer designer Amália Spinardi had her sexy models slink around the equally sinewy curves of Oscar Niemeyer’s 1951 masterpiece, Casa das Canoas; and the Vanity Fair fashion director and photographer Michael Roberts celebrated his new book, “Saved!,” with the model Isabelli Fontana and a troop of topless boys on the beach. Speaking of models, securing appropriate talent is seldom a problem in Brazil — a 5-minute street casting would easily do the trick. Still, it never hurts to have girls like Isabelli Fontana, Jeisa Chiminazzo, Raica Oliveira, Fernanda Tavares and Diane Conterato on the runway. Obviously, having familiar faces in the front row is also a plus. At Claro Rio Summer, the mix was especially varied: Valentino, Lady Gabriella Windsor, India Hicks, Georgina Brandolini, Astrid Muñoz and Natalia Vodianova joined a cast of local celebrities. We’re in a recession, so it makes sense to embrace minimal dressing. In Brazil, however, the concept is often taken to its logical extreme, with ultra-sexy bathing suits and titillating outfits that provide, well, minimal coverage. Above is a slideshow of our favorite looks — viewer discretion is advised.

Subject: Fashion models

Location: Brazil Rio de Janeiro Brazil New York Istanbul Turkey India

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 13, 2008

Section: blogs

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2221351779

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2221351779?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-08

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 274 of 313

As Summit Starts, Emerging Nations Weigh New Clout; Brazil, China, India Step Up In Diplomatic Power Shift

Author: Faiola, Anthony; Glenn Kessler - Washington Post Staff Writers

Publication info: The Washington Post ; Washington, D.C. [Washington, D.C]15 Nov 2008: A.1.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

When world leaders gathered last night for a White House dinner on the eve of a major economic summit, the faces around the table were not just those of the Europeans and Japanese who normally mix in the highest circles of diplomacy. This time, heads of state from the across the developing world, from China to Brazil to India, had a seat at the table.

Their inclusion in this weekend's talks on the global financial crisis marks a historic power shift. The summit is being seen as a model of what high-level diplomacy will look like in the future, with emerging giants gaining a voice in a club that long included only the richest of nations. But at a time when China maintains the world's largest cash reserves and the United States is going deep into debt, the definition of rich has changed.

Leaders from developing countries -- which are expected to account for nearly 100 percent of global growth next year as developed countries fall into recession -- now see an opportunity to broaden their clout. At the summit today, they will push for more influence in the International Monetary Fund as well as the other institutions that are charged with maintaining global economic stability, but that still remain largely controlled by Europe, the United States and Japan.

Developing countries will also seek to cement their inclusion in global decision-making, pressing for entry into organizations such as the Switzerland-based Financial Stability Forum, which brings together developed world regulators, central bankers and financial officials.

Analysts say the shift toward global inclusion underscores how the financial crisis crippling the developed world has provided emerging giants -- which are relatively healthier -- with a chance to assert themselves.

"We must use the crisis as an opportunity to correct things that were wrong before the crisis and strengthen multilateral bodies, because in a globalized world we need serious and representative forums to take global decisions," Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva told reporters this week. Lula dismissed the modern relevance of the Group of Eight, an organization of seven developed countries plus Russia, that might have been called on to deliberate on the crisis in another era.

"We need to have other countries and other continents for more democratic, more plural decisions," Lula said.

With new clout, some say, comes new responsibilities. In an interview yesterday, Japanese Prime Minister Taro Aso called on nations such as China to offer up some of their vast reserves to the IMF, which has been charged with bailing out a number of countries in recent weeks. With the economic crisis deepening, he said, the IMF would need more than the roughly $200 billion in its war chest to help troubled nations.

Japan would offer as much as $100 billion more, he said, but other countries with deep pockets should fulfill their responsibilities.

"It doesn't have to be Japan alone that would provide such funds," Aso said. "Oil-producing countries, China and other countries that have ample reserves could also make their contributions."

Aso also showed reluctance to quickly cede voting power in organizations such as the IMF. "I don't think it's something that should be achieved today or tomorrow," he said. "I believe that needs to be worked out over time."

Still, most nations, including the United States, have acknowledged that a new world order has emerged and that the developing world should have a larger say in international organizations.

Support for that notion, analysts say, was underscored by the way in which this weekend's summit came together. Pressed to convene a gathering of world leaders to address the crisis, President Bush eschewed the G-8, and called instead on the broader "Group of 20" nations -- which includes countries such as Argentina, Saudi Arabia and South Africa -- to deliberate this weekend.

"We share a determination to fix the problems that led to this turmoil," Bush said at the White House dinner last night. "We share a conviction that by working together, we can restore the global economy to the path of long-term prosperity."

At the summit, leaders are seeking consensus on how to combat a global recession and create a road map for broader reform of the world's financial system. In the summit communique, which was being finalized last night, the leaders are expected to agree on the root causes of the crisis and to back the creation of a "college of supervisors" to examine the inner-workings of the world's 30 biggest financial institutions. They are also expected to express support for countries seeking to use fiscal stimulus to bolster their economies.

The leaders plan to set up working groups to examine such issues as overhauling international financial institutions and harmonizing accounting rules across borders. They will also issue a plea to maintain free and open trade as well as aid to developing countries. Officials will take a stab at a few more touchy issues, such as establishing global guidelines for executive pay at financial companies.

The communique is expected to be parsed in the language of diplomacy and to relegate the details to lower-level diplomats to work out in coming weeks and months. The heads of state would regroup in early spring for a follow-up summit.

The summit takes place as the world is on the cusp of a global recession. Officials in the 15 eurozone countries announced yesterday that the region had officially fallen into recession. Overall, developed economies are projected to contract by 0.1 percent in 2009, while the developing world will grow by 4.5 percent, according to new estimates released by the World Bank.

With developing countries gaining a foothold in the global economy, German Chancellor Angela Merkel insisted this week that the IMF in particular be overhauled. The developed world must be given "more possibilities to wield influence," Merkel told the Sueddeutsche Zeitung newspaper. "That will happen at the expense of industrialized countries, but that is how it goes."

The summit, analysts say, is likely to plant the seed for the creation of a new grouping of nations -- bigger than the G-8, but perhaps not as broad as the G-20 -- that will be called to meet regularly over financial and diplomatic issues of global importance.

Canada has floated an alternative idea to simply turn the G-20 into an annual head-of-government meeting called the L20 ("L" would stand for "leaders"). Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the Turkish prime minister, has supported that proposal.

"In terms of balancing the crisis, in terms of finding a way out of this global crisis, heads of states and heads of governments, maybe we can talk about a change," he said yesterday at the National Press Club.

One advantage to the inclusion of developing nations, the leaders argue, is that they can fight for their own interests. This weekend, officials from developing nations are insisting that rich countries keep their promises to give foreign aid to the poorest nations despite problems at home.

The summit has become the target for protesters with a hodgepodge of messages, some only tangentially related to the event. In Lafayette Park, across from the White House, only a handful of supporters showed up last night, and police forced the organizers to remove trays of food they had brought to feed the homeless while Bush was hosting the G-20 leaders.

"At the summit, they are talking about redesigning capitalism because it's not working. We want to show that you don't need capitalism to survive, as long as people help each other," said Sam Palmer, 16, a student from Arlington who helped cook the food.

The protesters have planned further demonstrations for today, including a carnival in Murrow Park at 18th and H Streets NW, and a forum on economic issues in a church several blocks away. No demonstrators are expected to be allowed near the summit site in the National Building Museum.

Staff writer Pamela Constable contributed to this report.

Credit: Washington Post Staff Writers

Subject: International organizations; Recessions; Industrialized nations; Developing countries--LDCs; Economic summit conferences

Location: United States--US China Brazil India

Publication title: The Washington Post; Washington, D.C.

Pages: A.1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 15, 2008

Section: A SECTION

Publisher: WP Company LLC d/b/a The Washington Post

Place of publication: Washington, D.C.

Country of publication: United States, Washington, D.C.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 01908286

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 410313720

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/410313720?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright The Washington Post Company Nov 15, 2008

Last updated: 2017-11-02

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 275 of 313

Sensation Belgium - 14 March 2009, Ethias Arena Hasselt

Publication info: PR Newswire Europe Including UK Disclose ; New York (Nov 18, 2008).

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

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BRUSSELS, November 18 /PRNewswire/ -- After 4 wonderful, sold-out, showpieces in the "Sportpaleis" in Antwerp, Sensation moves to Hasselt. This year we are proud to welcome the spectacular Ocean Of White show.

To view the Multimedia News Release go to http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/id-t/36053/

4 years ago, Belgium was the first country where Sensation took place outside the borders of the Netherlands. And that's something we are still very proud of! But during the last few years Sensation has become an international phenomenon. In 2009 Sensation will take place in more than 22 countries - spread out over 4 continents; for example shows in Chile, Australia, Spain, Czech, Poland, Germany,...

Together with the worldwide expansion of Sensation, the show has also grown in an exceptional way. In Belgium, the Ethias arena is the only venue that can hold the entire production, including the 80 metre long fountain show. The beautiful hall has proven its qualities several times by now and is the perfect location for the most wonderful spectacle of the year. Hasselt, here we come!

About Sensation

Sensation began in Amsterdam in 2000 and since then more than half a million people from all over the world have been able to witness one of the world's most spectacular dance and music events.

The very first Sensation took place in the Amsterdam ArenA - home of the soccer club Ajax, and was experienced by 20,000 clubbers. Sensation as we now know it, was born in 2001. In honour of his brother Miles (who co-founded ID&T before he sadly died in a tragic car accident), Duncan Stutterheim, Sensation CEO, asked all Sensation visitors to dress in white, just like at Miles' funeral. Numbers had doubled from the first year, and 80 percent of the 40,000 (!) visitors respected Stutterheim's wish and showed up dressed in white. The dress code was so fantastic and overwhelming that the white glow has never disappeared since then. Be part of the night - Dress in white!

World-famous DJs already appeared on the Sensation decks during an 8-hour spectacle of extraordinary stage shows with acrobats, performers , state-of-the-art lightshows, lasers and phenomenal fireworks. Let yourself be dazzled by performers dancing across the venue and others who descend from the peak of the roof, brilliant flames that light up the stages and carnival floats that wend their way through the exuberant crowd.

Some of the world's best DJs have played Sensation over the years, each helping to take the visitors through the night as the perfect musical accompaniment to the unfolding show, making Sensation what it is today! Tiesto, Sven Vath, Armin van Buuren, Carl Cox, David Guetta, Richie Hawtin, Axwell, Fedde le Grand, Steve Angelo, Sebastian Ingrosso and Erick Morillo have all shown their pride on the Sensation stage at some point - many referring to it as the highlight of their careers.

As Sensation's reputation has grown, the music has evolved and taken on its own style. It's not just about booking the biggest DJ names anymore, it's about choosing the people who can make Sensation the best event possible, and play the most cutting edge music of today and tomorrow. People who have a knack for sensing exactly what the crowd wants!

Sensation always welcomes local heroes, stars of the moment, and the stars of the future, who always have the honour to open or close Sensation in their own countries in front of their home crowd.

Besides the DJs and performers, the renowned Megamix is, for many people, a shimmering climax of the Sensation show. The Megamix is what distinguishes Sensation from all other dance events. This moment during every show is when not the DJs, but the music itself, and the public, are the stars of the evening. Compiled by one of the musical masterminds of ID&T, this musical trip is characterized by a series of old and new classics, accompanied by a spectacular show and firework display.

The show is different every year, with a changing theme - from "Space", to "The Garden of Eden" and from "Dreams" to this year's "Ocean of White". The new theme is launched in the Amsterdam Arena every year, and from then on it can start conquering the whole world with its white magic.

Sensation has become the most international dance event, with shows in countries all over Europe, such as Germany, Russia, Poland, Denmark, Spain and, of course, Belgium.

Keep checking the tour schedule of 2009 - Sensation will take place in 22 different countries, including Australia, Spain, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Chile and many more. Sensation will be coming to a city near you!

Advance ticket sale:

Advance ticket sale starts Saturday 22 November

All info: http://www.sensation.com

Contact: Christophe Van den Branden;

Phone - +32-479959652

email - christophe@id-t.be

ID&T

Subject: Product introduction; Service introduction; Art; Entertainment industry; Music industry

Location: Europe

Publication title: PR Newswire Europe Including UK Disclose; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 18, 2008

Publisher: PR Newswire Association LLC

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: WIRE FEED

ProQuest document ID: 336704339

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/336704339?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright (c) 2008 PR Newswire Europe Limited. All Rights Reserved.

Last updated: 2018-02-13

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 276 of 313

Examine the World Merchant Shipping Market Brief

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Business Wire ; New York [New York]18 Nov 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

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Full text:

Reportlinker

Nicolas: nbo@reportlinker.com

US: (805)-652-2626

Intl: +1 805-652-2626

Logo: http://www.reportlinker.com

Reportlinker.com announces that a new market research report related to the Transportation industry is available in its catalogue.

World Merchant Shipping Market Brief

http://www.reportlinker.com/p097885/World-Merchant-Shipping-Market-Brief.html

The global outlook series on Merchant Shipping provides a collection of statistical anecdotes, market briefs, and concise summaries of research findings. Richly laden with quantitative analysis, the report offers discussion on the basics and structure of the Merchant Shipping industry. Annotated with 52 information rich tables presenting research findings, and analytical projections, the synopsized market discussion provides a statistical insight into global marine water transportation market size by region, marine ports and services market by region, leading cruise ship owners by gross tonnage/berths, trading fleet & merchant shipping fleet by ship type, cargo traffic by volume, containerized freight traffic by volume, container throughput across ports by region, chemical cargo, seaborne coal, and iron ore volume shipments by category, among numerous other parameters. Major regional markets discussed include United States, Europe, Russia, China, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, Latin America, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, and Venezuela. The abstracted regional market discussions provide a prelude to these markets. The report also includes an indexed, easy-to-refer, fact-finder directory listing the addresses, and contact details of 482 companies worldwide.

MERCHANT SHIPPING GOS-102 A GLOBAL OUTLOOK, SEPTEMBER 2008

CONTENTS

1. Overview 1 International Shipping Industry 1 Current Scenario 1 Stringent Environmental Policies Set to Boost Scrapping 1 Heavy Congestion in Ports Affect Dry-Bulk Markets 2 Container Shipping Sector Growing Fast 2 Technological Advances Drives Up Growth 2 Growth of Larger LNG Vessels 2

Table 1: Global Marine Water Transportation Market Volume by Region: Annual Market Estimates for 2003 through 2008 in Billion Metric Tons for Australia, South America, Africa, Asia, North America and Europe 3

Table 2: Global Marine Water Transportation Market Volume by Region: Percentage Market Share for 2004 and 2008 for Australia, South America, Africa, Asia, North America and Europe 3

Table 3: Global Marine Ports and Services Market Volume by Region: Annual Market Estimates for 2003 through 2008 in Billions of Tons for Asia-Pacific, Europe, North America and Rest of the World 4

Table 4: Global Marine Ports and Services Market Volume by Region: Percentage Market Share for 2004 and 2008 for Asia-Pacific, Europe, North America and Rest of the World 4 Shipping and World Trade 5 Developing World's Contribution Rising in the Shipping Sector 5 Safety and Sustainability, The Prime Concern of the Shipping Sector 5

Table 5: Global Trading Fleet (2005): Percentage Breakdown by Ship Type - Tankers, Container Ships, General Cargo Ships, Bulk Carriers, Passenger Ships, and Others 6

Table 6: Global Merchant Shipping Fleet (2005): Ship Average Age by Type 6 Inclination Factors of Production in Merchant Shipping Fleet 6 Types of Ocean Vessels 6 Tankers 6 Containerships 7 Dry Bulk Vessels 7 General Cargo Ships 7 Specialty Vessels 7 Passenger Carriers 7

Table 7: Leading Cruise Ship Owners by Gross Tonnage (GT): Percentage Market Share for 2006 by Player - Star Cruises Group, Mediterranean Shipping Cruises (MSC), Carnival Group, Royal Caribbean CL, and Others 7

Table 8: Leading Cruise Ship Owners by Berths: Percentage Market Share for 2006 by Player -Mediterranean Shipping Cruises (MSC), Star Cruises Group, Royal Caribbean CL, Carnival Group, and Others 8

Table 9: Global Marine Water Transportation Market Volume by Category: Annual Market Estimates for 2003 through 2008 in Billion Metric Tons for Tanker, Dry Bulk, General Cargo-Container and Other General Cargo 8

Table 10: Global Marine Water Transportation Market Volume by Category: Percentage Market Share for 2004 and 2008 for Tanker, Dry Bulk, General Cargo- Container and Other General Cargo 9

Table 11: Global Leading Very Large Crude Carrier Charterers (VLCC) by Tanker Spot Cargoes/ Fixtures: 2005 Percentage Market Share for Royal-Dutch Shell Group ChevronTexaco Corp., & Others 9 Freight Fares 9 Ownership Patterns of World Merchant Fleet 9 Overview 9 World Merchant Fleet Under National and Foreign Flag 9

Table 12: Global Merchant Shipping Fleet (2005): Percentage Breakdown of Deadweight Tonnage (dwt) by Foreign and National Flag by Ship Type 10 Ownership Patterns of Major Shipping Countries 10 Ownership Patterns According to Major Ship Types 10

Table 13: Global Merchant Shipping Fleet (2005): Percentage Breakdown of Deadweight Tonnage (dwt) by Foreign and National Flag by Select Countries 11 Development of Major Open Registry Flags 11

Table 14: Global Open Registry Flags by Ship Type (Tankers): dwt Percentage Share for 2005 by Country - Panama, Liberia, Bahamas, and Others 12

Table 15: Global Open Registry Flags by Ship Type (Container Ships): dwt Percentage Share for 2005 by Country - Panama, Liberia, Bahamas, and Others 12

Table 16: Global Open Registry Flags by Ship Type (Bulk Carriers): dwt Percentage Share for 2005 by Country - Panama, Liberia, Bahamas, and Others 12

Table 17: Global Open Registry Flags by Ship (All Types): dwt Percentage Share for 2005 by Country - Panama, Liberia, Bahamas, and Others 12 Global Cargo Market 12

Table 18: Global Ship Cargo Shipments: Annual Market Estimates for 2003 through 2008 in Trillions of Pounds 13 Global Containerized Cargo Market 13

Table 19: World Leading Maritime Countries and Territories (2005): Based on the Percentage of World Fleet 13

Table 20: Global Containerized Freight Traffic: Annual Market Estimates for 2003 through 2008 in Millions of Twenty-Foot Equivalent Units 14

Table 21: Container Throughput Market across Ports in the Global Market: Annual Market Estimates for 2003 through 2008 in Millions of TEUs 14 Chemical Cargo Market 14

Table 22: Global Chemical Volume Shipments through Waterborne Medium, by Category: Annual Market Estimates for 2003 through 2008 in Millions of Tons for Foreign and Domestic Categories 15

Table 23: Global Deep Sea Chemical Tanker Transportation Capacity by Leading Companies: 2005 in Millions of Dead Weight Tons and Percentage for Odfjell-Seachem, Stolt-Nielsen, Jo Tankers, Tokyo Marine, and Others 15 Seaborne Coal Trade 15

Table 24: Global Seaborne Steam Coal Trade Across Pacific and Atlantic: Annual Market Estimates for 2003 through 2008 in Millions of Tons 16

Table 25: Global Seaborne Cooking Coal Trade Across Pacific and Atlantic: Annual Market Estimates for 2003 through 2008 in Millions of Tons 16

Table 26: Global Seaborne Hard Coal Trade: Annual Market Estimates for 2003 through 2008 in Millions of Tons 17 Seaborne Iron Ore Market 17

Table 27: Global Seaborne Iron Ore Trade: Annual Market Estimates for 2003 through 2008 in Million Tons 17

Table 28: Global Seaborne Iron Ore Trade (2005): Percentage Breakdown by Product Type - Fines, Lump, Blast Furnace Pellets, and DRI Pellets 17 Seaborne Pellet Market 17

2. Mergers & Acquisitions 18

3. Strategic Corporate Development 30

4. Product Launches 34

5. A North American Perspective 35 Overview 35

Table 29: Leading Producers of Pellets in North America (2005): Percentage Breakdown by Cliffs Managed, Minorca, Quebec Cartier Mining Company, USS - Minntac/ Keetac, and Iron Ore Company of Canada 35

Table 30: Leading Ports in North America (2005): Percentage Share in terms of Shipper's Usage for US Trade 35

Table 31: Canadian Marine Traffic By Canada Port Authorities (CPA): Percentage Share of Vancouver, Saint John, Sept-Iles, Quebec, Montreal, Fraser River, Hamilton, Halifax, Thunder Bay, North Fraser, Windsor, Prince Rupert, Trois-Rivieres, Nanaimo, Belledune, St. John's, Toronto, Port Alberni, and Saguenay for 2005 (In million tons) 36

5a. United States 36 Turning Around the Merchant Marine 36 Leading Player 36 The Domestic Tank Vessel Industry 37

Table 32: Primary US Ports (In terms of US bound Containers) - 2005 Percentage Share of Los Angeles, Long Beach, New York-New Jersey, Charleston, Savannah, Norfolk, Seattle, Tacoma, Oakland, and Houston 37

Table 33: Leading Agricultural Container Ports for Exports in the US: Percentage Share of Oakland, Long Beach, Los Angeles, Seattle, Jacksonville, Tacoma, New York, Norfolk, Charleston, and Portland for 2005 37 Market Status 37 Contribution of the Marine Industry to the US Economy 37 Historic Overview 38 Corporate and Government Initiatives 38 Maritime Security Program 38 National Security 38 Cargo Traffic 39

Table 34: Leading US Retailers by Container Traffic Through US Ports (in terms of container usage) for 2005 39

Table 35: Leading US Ports Handling Over One Million Containers Annually (2005) 39

Table 36: Cargo Traffic Volume of Major Trading Countries at Port of Miami in the US: 2005 in '000 of Tons for Guatemala, Honduras, Spain, Jamaica, Dom. Republic, Venezuela, Italy, and others 40 Outlook 40

6. A European Perspective 40 Role of European Shipping Industry 40 European Transport Policy 40 Liberalization of Port Services 40 Short Sea Shipping 41

Table 37: Leading European Maritime Traffic Ports by Cargo Handling: 2005 in Millions of Metric Tons for Rotterdam, Antwerp, Marseille-Fos, and Le Havre 41

6a. Russia 41 Role of Russian Shipping 41 Constraints 41

6b. Spain 42

6c. Belgium 42

6d. France 42

6e. Greece 42

6f. Luxembourg 43

6g. United Kingdom 43

6h. The Netherlands 43

6i. Portugal 43

6j. Rest of Europe 44 Ferry Line Trade in Central and Eastern Europe 44 Challenges Faced by Duty-Free Sector 44 Positive Growth 44

Table 38: Ferry Line Duty-free Sales in Central and Eastern Europe by Product Category: Annual Market Estimates for 2003 through 2008 in Millions of US$ for Liquor, Tobacco Products, Fragrances / Cosmetics and Gifts/Other 44

Table 39: Ferry Line Duty-free Sales in Central and Eastern Europe by Product Category: Percentage Market Share for 2004 and 2008 for Liquor, Tobacco Products, Fragrances/ Cosmetics and Gifts/Other 45 Outlook 45

7. An Asian Perspective 45

7a. China 45 Cargo Ports' Performance in the Marine Transportation Market 45 Outlook 45

Table 40: Leading Cargo Ports' Throughput in China: 2004 in Millions of Twenty-foot Equivalent Units (TEUs) for Shanghai, Shenzhen, Qingdao, Tianjin, Guangzhou, Xiamen, Dalian, Ningbo, Zhongshan, and Fuzhou 46

Table 41: Cargo Passage through Major Ports in China: 2005 in Millions of TEUs for Shanghai, Shenzhen and Quingdao 46

Table 42: Sea Transport Overnight Trips from China: Annual Market Estimates for 2003 through 2008 in Millions 46

Table 43: Chinese Market for Iron Ore (2005): Percentage Share of Imports from Australia, Brazil, India, South Africa, and Others 47

Table 44: Leading Chinese Inland River Ports by Volume of Cargo: 2005 in Millions of Tons for Nanjing Nantong, Hangzhou, Zhengjiang, Zhangjiagang, Wuhan, Huzhou, Changshu, and Jiangyin 47

7b. Indonesia 47 Overview 47

Table 45: National Sea Transportation Fleet Volume in Indonesia by Type: Annual Market Estimates for 2003 through 2008 in Thousands of Deadweight Tons (DWT) for Cargo Vessels, Barges, and Tug Boats 48

Table 46: National Sea Transportation Fleet Volume in Indonesia by Type: Percentage Market Share for 2004 and 2008 (*) for Cargo Vessels, Barges, and Tug Boats 48

7c. Philippines 49 Cargo Throughput 49

Table 47: Philippines Cargo Ports Throughput: Annual Market Estimates for 2003 through 2008 in Millions of Metric Tons for Domestic and Foreign 49

Table 48: Philippines Cargo Ports Throughput: Percentage Market Share for 2004 and 2008for Domestic and Foreign 49

Table 49: Philippines Containerized Cargo Traffic for Cargo Ports: Annual Market Estimates for 2003 through 2008 in Millions of Metric Tons for TEU Traffic and Ship Traffic 49

Table 50: Philippines Containerized Cargo Traffic for Cargo Ports: Percentage Market Share for 2004 and 2008 for TEU Traffic and Ship Traffic 50

7d. Singapore 50 Cargo Volume 50

Table 51: General Cargo Volume Handled by Singapore Port Authority: Annual Market Estimates for 2003 through 2008 in Millions of Tons for Containerized Cargo and Conventional Cargo 50

Table 52: Bulk Cargo Volume Handled by Singapore Port Authority: Annual Market Estimates for 2003 through 2008 in Millions of Tons for Oil and Non-Oil 50

8. A Latin American Perspective 51 Cargo Market - An Overview 51 Outlook 51 Cargo Shipments in the Caribbean and Latin American Regions 51 Influencing Factors 51 Capacity Expansions 51 Outlook 51 Cargo Container Traffic in the Caribbean, South and Central America 52 Outlook 52

8a. Argentina 52 Latin American Economy - Argentina 52 Foreign Policies and Cargo Transportation 52 Outlook 52

8b. Brazil 53 Foreign Investments - Decreased Infrastructure Costs 53 Outlook 53

8c. Chile 53 Cargo Traffic by Major Ports 53 Outlook 53

8d. Colombia 53 Overview and Outlook 53

8e. Guatemala 54 Cargo Traffic Market 54 Outlook 54

8f. Honduras 54 Cargo Traffic at Major Ports 54 Outlook 54

8g. Nicaragua 55 Cargo Traffic 55 Outlook 55

8h. Venezuela 55 Cargo Traffic 55

GLOBAL DIRECTORY

To order this report: World Merchant Shipping Market Brief

http://www.reportlinker.com/p097885/World-Merchant-Shipping-Market-Brief.html

More market research reports here!

Publication title: Business Wire; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 18, 2008

Dateline: NEW YORK

Publisher: Business Wire

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: Release

ProQuest document ID: 444369346

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/444369346?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Business Wire 2008

Last updated: 2010-06-30

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 277 of 313

Sensation Belgium - 14 March 2009, Ethias Arena Hasselt

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: PR Newswire ; New York [New York]18 Nov 2008. [Duplicate]

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Abstract:

In honour of his brother Miles (who co-founded ID&T before he sadly died in a tragic car accident), Duncan Stutterheim, Sensation CEO, asked all Sensation visitors to dress in white, just like at Miles' funeral. World-famous DJs already appeared on the Sensation decks during an 8-hour spectacle of extraordinary stage shows with acrobats, performers , state-of-the-art lightshows, lasers and phenomenal fireworks.

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BRUSSELS, November 18 /PRNewswire/ -- After 4 wonderful, sold-out, showpieces in the "Sportpaleis" in Antwerp, Sensation moves to Hasselt. This year we are proud to welcome the spectacular Ocean Of White show.

To view the Multimedia News Release go to

http://www.prnewswire.com/mnr/id-t/36053/

4 years ago, Belgium was the first country where Sensation took place outside the borders of the Netherlands. And that's something we are still very proud of! But during the last few years Sensation has become an international phenomenon. In 2009 Sensation will take place in more than 22 countries - spread out over 4 continents; for example shows in Chile, Australia, Spain, Czech, Poland, Germany,...

Together with the worldwide expansion of Sensation, the show has also grown in an exceptional way. In Belgium, the Ethias arena is the only venue that can hold the entire production, including the 80 metre long fountain show. The beautiful hall has proven its qualities several times by now and is the perfect location for the most wonderful spectacle of the year. Hasselt, here we come!

About Sensation

Sensation began in Amsterdam in 2000 and since then more than half a million people from all over the world have been able to witness one of the world's most spectacular dance and music events.

The very first Sensation took place in the Amsterdam ArenA - home of the soccer club Ajax, and was experienced by 20,000 clubbers. Sensation as we now know it, was born in 2001. In honour of his brother Miles (who co-founded ID&T before he sadly died in a tragic car accident), Duncan Stutterheim, Sensation CEO, asked all Sensation visitors to dress in white, just like at Miles' funeral. Numbers had doubled from the first year, and 80 percent of the 40,000 (!) visitors respected Stutterheim's wish and showed up dressed in white. The dress code was so fantastic and overwhelming that the white glow has never disappeared since then. Be part of the night - Dress in white!

World-famous DJs already appeared on the Sensation decks during an 8-hour spectacle of extraordinary stage shows with acrobats, performers , state-of-the-art lightshows, lasers and phenomenal fireworks. Let yourself be dazzled by performers dancing across the venue and others who descend from the peak of the roof, brilliant flames that light up the stages and carnival floats that wend their way through the exuberant crowd.

Some of the world's best DJs have played Sensation over the years, each helping to take the visitors through the night as the perfect musical accompaniment to the unfolding show, making Sensation what it is today! Tiesto, Sven Vath, Armin van Buuren, Carl Cox, David Guetta, Richie Hawtin, Axwell, Fedde le Grand, Steve Angelo, Sebastian Ingrosso and Erick Morillo have all shown their pride on the Sensation stage at some point - many referring to it as the highlight of their careers.

As Sensation's reputation has grown, the music has evolved and taken on its own style. It's not just about booking the biggest DJ names anymore, it's about choosing the people who can make Sensation the best event possible, and play the most cutting edge music of today and tomorrow. People who have a knack for sensing exactly what the crowd wants!

Sensation always welcomes local heroes, stars of the moment, and the stars of the future, who always have the honour to open or close Sensation in their own countries in front of their home crowd.

Besides the DJs and performers, the renowned Megamix is, for many people, a shimmering climax of the Sensation show. The Megamix is what distinguishes Sensation from all other dance events. This moment during every show is when not the DJs, but the music itself, and the public, are the stars of the evening. Compiled by one of the musical masterminds of ID&T, this musical trip is characterized by a series of old and new classics, accompanied by a spectacular show and firework display.

The show is different every year, with a changing theme - from "Space", to "The Garden of Eden" and from "Dreams" to this year's "Ocean of White". The new theme is launched in the Amsterdam Arena every year, and from then on it can start conquering the whole world with its white magic.

Sensation has become the most international dance event, with shows in countries all over Europe, such as Germany, Russia, Poland, Denmark, Spain and, of course, Belgium.

Keep checking the tour schedule of 2009 - Sensation will take place in 22 different countries, including Australia, Spain, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Chile and many more. Sensation will be coming to a city near you!

Advance ticket sale:

Advance ticket sale starts Saturday 22 November

All info: http://www.sensation.com

Contact: Christophe Van den Branden;

Phone - +32-479959652

email - christophe@id-t.be

SOURCE ID&T

Credit: ID&T

Subject: Music

Publication title: PR Newswire; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 18, 2008

Dateline: BRUSSELS

Publisher: PR Newswire Association LLC

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 447594957

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu /login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/447594957?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright PR Newswire Association LLC Nov 18, 2008

Last updated: 2010-11-03

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 278 of 313

November 20, 2008 (Page 27 of 96)

Publication info: Asheville Citizen-Times (1991-2011) ; Asheville, North Carolina [Asheville, North Carolina]20 Nov 2008: 27.

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Abstract: None available.

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Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Asheville Citizen-Times (1991-2011); Asheville, North Carolina

Volume: 138

Issue: 325

First page: 27

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 20, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Asheville, North Carolina

Country of publication: United States, Asheville, North Carolina

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 1060-3255

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: En glish

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2125782016

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2125782016?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Nov 20, 2008

Last updated: 2018-10-27

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 279 of 313

PRESS RELEASE: Shoe Carnival Reports Third Quarter 2008 Results

Publication info: Dow Jones Institutional News ; New York [New York]20 Nov 2008.

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EVANSVILLE, Ind.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--November 20, 2008--

Shoe Carnival, Inc. (Nasdaq: SCVL), a leading retailer of value-priced footwear and accessories, today announced sales and earnings for the third quarter ended November 1, 2008.

Net earnings for the thirteen-week third quarter were $2.6 million, or $0.21 per diluted share, compared to net earnings of $4.2 million, or $0.33 per diluted share, for the thirteen-week prior year third quarter ended November 3, 2007.

Sales for the third quarter were $170.1 million compared to sales of $173.9 million for the prior year third quarter. Comparable store sales for the thirteen-week period ended November 1, 2008 decreased 5.0 percent compared with the thirteen-week period ended November 3, 2007.

The gross profit margin for the third quarter was 27.2 percent compared to 29.1 percent for the third quarter of the prior year. As a percentage of sales, the merchandise margin decreased 1.1 percent while buying, distribution and occupancy costs increased 0.8 percent.

Selling, general and administrative expenses for the third quarter were $42.4 million, or 24.9 percent of sales, compared to $43.6 million, or 25.1 percent of sales, for the third quarter of 2007.

Speaking on the results for the quarter, Mark Lemond, chief executive officer and president said, "Our customers continue to be impacted by the economic downturn as buying habits have shifted to periods of need. We saw a definite lift in sales during the back-to-school season. However, sales trended lower during September and October when spending became more discretionary."

Mr. Lemond continued, "Despite operating an additional 17 stores at the end of the third quarter and incurring store closing costs of an additional $321,000 as compared to the prior year, we were still able to decrease our selling, general and administrative expenses by $1.2 million or 0.2 percent as a percentage of sales. We are managing our business conservatively by focusing on reducing inventory and thereby generating cash flow. At the end of the third quarter, we reduced inventories on a per store basis by 8.0 percent and generated $10.8 million in cash provided by operations year-to-date. We had no borrowings on our line of credit at the end of the quarter and look to continue to manage our business to remain free of long-term debt."

Net income for the first nine months of 2008 was $8.4 million, or $0.67 per diluted share, compared with net income of $11.7 million, or $0.87 per diluted share, in the first nine months of last year. Net sales for the first nine months was $490.7 million compared to net sales of $494.3 million for the same period last year. Comparable store sales for the thirty-nine week period ended November 1, 2008 decreased 3.7 percent compared to the thirty-nine week period last year ended November 3, 2007. The gross profit margin for the first nine months of 2008 was 27.6 percent compared to 28.5 percent last year. Selling, general and administrative expenses, as a percentage of sales, was 24.9 percent for both 2008 and 2007.

Store Growth

Currently, the Company expects to open 24 new stores in fiscal 2008 and close 12 stores. Store openings and closings by quarter and for the fiscal year are currently planned as follows:

New Stores Stores Closings
---------- ---------------
1(st) Quarter 200820
2(nd) Quarter 2008122
3(rd) Quarter 200881
4(th) Quarter 200829
---------- ---------------
Fiscal 20082412

The eight stores opened during the third quarter included locations in:

CityMarket/Total Stores in Market
-----------------------------
Rapid City, SDRapid City/1
Grand Junction, CO Grand Junction/1
Uniontown, PAPittsburgh/3
Monroe, LAMonroe/1
Meridian, IDBoise/2
League City, TXHouston/9
Baytown, TXHouston/9
Fort Smith, ARFort Smith/3

Conference Call

Today, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern time, the Company will host a conference call to discuss the third quarter results. The public can listen to the live webcast of the call by visiting Shoe Carnival's Investor Relations page at www.shoecarnival.com. While the question-and-answer session will be available to all listeners, questions from the audience will be limited to institutional analysts and investors. A replay of the webcast will be available on our website beginning approximately two hours after the conclusion of the conference call and will be archived for one year.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking statements, within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause our actual results, performance, achievements or industry results to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to: general economic conditions in the areas of the United States in which our stores are located; changes in the overall retail environment and more specifically in the apparel and footwear retail sectors; our ability to generate increased sales at our stores; the potential impact of national and international security concerns on the retail environment; changes in our relationships with key suppliers; the impact of competition and pricing; changes in weather patterns, consumer buying trends and our ability to identify and respond to emerging fashion trends; the impact of disruptions in our distribution or information technology operations; the effectiveness of our inventory management; the impact of hurricanes or other natural disasters on our stores, as well as on consumer confidence and purchasing in general; risks associated with the seasonality of the retail industry; our ability to successfully execute our growth strategy, including the availability of desirable store locations at acceptable lease terms, our ability to open new stores in a timely and profitable manner and the availability of sufficient funds to implement our growth plans; higher than anticipated costs associated with the closing of underperforming stores; the inability of manufacturers to deliver products in a timely manner; changes in the political and economic environments in the People's Republic of China, Brazil, Spain and East Asia, the primary manufacturers of footwear; and the continued favorable trade relations between the United States and China and the other countries which are the major manufacturers of footwear.

In addition, these forward-looking statements necessarily depend upon assumptions, estimates and dates that may be incorrect or imprecise and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors. Accordingly, any forward-looking statements included in this press release do not purport to be predictions of future events or circumstances and may not be realized. Forward-looking statements can be identified by, among other things, the use of forward-looking terms such as "believes," "expects," "may," "will," "should," "seeks," "pro forma," "anticipates," "intends" or the negative of any of these terms, or comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategy or intentions. Given these uncertainties, we caution investors not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. We disclaim any obligation to update any of these factors or to publicly announce any revisions to the forward-looking statements contained in this press release to reflect future events or developments.

Shoe Carnival is a chain of 311 footwear stores located in the Midwest, South and Southeast. Combining value pricing with an entertaining store format, Shoe Carnival is a leading retailer of name brand and private label footwear for the entire family. Headquartered in Evansville, IN, Shoe Carnival trades on The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC under the symbol SCVL. Shoe Carnival's press releases and annual report are available on the Company's website at www.shoecarnival.com.

Financial Tables Follow

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC.
CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME
(In thousands, except per share)
ThirteenThirteenThirty-nineThirty-nine
WeeksWeeks
EndedEndedWeeks EndedWeeks Ended
NovemberNovemberNovember 1,November 3,
1, 20083, 200720082007
---------- --------- ------------- ---------------
Net sales$170,063$173,881$490,662$494,339
Cost of sales
(including
buying,
distribution
and occupancy
costs)123,746123,320355,119353,740
------------------------------
Gross profit46,31750,561135,543140,599
Selling, general
and
administrative
expenses42,38943,627122,373123,070
------------------------------
Operating income3,9286,93413,17017,529
Interest income(62)(101)(138)(611)
Interest expense42115111179
------------------------------
Income before
income taxes3,9486,92013,19717,961
Income tax
expense1,3412,7344,8296,281
------------------------------
Net income$ 2,607$ 4,186$8,368$11,680
==============================
Net income per
share:

(MORE TO FOLLOW)

November 20, 2008 07:00 ET (12:00 GMT)

Subject: Administrative expenses; Corporate profits; Profit margins; Inventory; Investments; Trends; Webcasting; Retail stores; Costs; New store openings; Earnings per share; Net income

Location: Pittsburgh Pennsylvania Spain United States--US China Brazil East Asia

Company / organization: Name: Nasdaq Stock Market Inc; NAICS: 523210; Name: Shoe Carnival Inc; NAICS: 448210

Publication title: Dow Jones Institutional News; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 20, 2008

Publisher: Dow Jones & Company Inc

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2242700991

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2242700991?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Dow Jones & Company Inc Nov 20, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-19

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 280 of 313

November 20, 2008 (Page 44 of 65)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]20 Nov 2008: 44.

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Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 40

Issue: 209

First page: 44

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 20, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2249010283

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2249010283?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Nov 20, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 281 of 313

Shoe Carnival Reports Third Quarter 2008 Results

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Business Wire ; New York [New York]20 Nov 2008. [Duplicate]

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Shoe Carnival, Inc. Mark L. Lemond, President and Chief Executive Officer or W. Kerry Jackson, Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer 812-867-4037 Shoe Carnival, Inc. (Nasdaq: SCVL), a leading retailer of value-priced footwear and accessories, today announced sales and earnings for the third quarter ended November 1, 2008.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Shoe Carnival, Inc.

Mark L. Lemond, President and Chief Executive Officer

or

W. Kerry Jackson, Executive Vice President,

Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer

812-867-4037

Shoe Carnival, Inc. (Nasdaq: SCVL), a leading retailer of value-priced footwear and accessories, today announced sales and earnings for the third quarter ended November 1, 2008.

Net earnings for the thirteen-week third quarter were $2.6 million, or $0.21 per diluted share, compared to net earnings of $4.2 million, or $0.33 per diluted share, for the thirteen-week prior year third quarter ended November 3, 2007.

Sales for the third quarter were $170.1 million compared to sales of $173.9 million for the prior year third quarter. Comparable store sales for the thirteen-week period ended November 1, 2008 decreased 5.0 percent compared with the thirteen-week period ended November 3, 2007.

The gross profit margin for the third quarter was 27.2 percent compared to 29.1 percent for the third quarter of the prior year. As a percentage of sales, the merchandise margin decreased 1.1 percent while buying, distribution and occupancy costs increased 0.8 percent.

Selling, general and administrative expenses for the third quarter were $42.4 million, or 24.9 percent of sales, compared to $43.6 million, or 25.1 percent of sales, for the third quarter of 2007.

Speaking on the results for the quarter, Mark Lemond, chief executive officer and president said, "Our customers continue to be impacted by the economic downturn as buying habits have shifted to periods of need. We saw a definite lift in sales during the back-to-school season. However, sales trended lower during September and October when spending became more discretionary."

Mr. Lemond continued, "Despite operating an additional 17 stores at the end of the third quarter and incurring store closing costs of an additional $321,000 as compared to the prior year, we were still able to decrease our selling, general and administrative expenses by $1.2 million or 0.2 percent as a percentage of sales. We are managing our business conservatively by focusing on reducing inventory and thereby generating cash flow. At the end of the third quarter, we reduced inventories on a per store basis by 8.0 percent and generated $10.8 million in cash provided by operations year-to-date. We had no borrowings on our line of credit at the end of the quarter and look to continue to manage our business to remain free of long-term debt."

Net income for the first nine months of 2008 was $8.4 million, or $0.67 per diluted share, compared with net income of $11.7 million, or $0.87 per diluted share, in the first nine months of last year. Net sales for the first nine months was $490.7 million compared to net sales of $494.3 million for the same period last year. Comparable store sales for the thirty-nine week period ended November 1, 2008 decreased 3.7 percent compared to the thirty-nine week period last year ended November 3, 2007. The gross profit margin for the first nine months of 2008 was 27.6 percent compared to 28.5 percent last year. Selling, general and administrative expenses, as a percentage of sales, was 24.9 percent for both 2008 and 2007.

Store Growth

Currently, the Company expects to open 24 new stores in fiscal 2008 and close 12 stores. Store openings and closings by quarter and for the fiscal year are currently planned as follows:

The eight stores opened during the third quarter included locations in:

Conference Call

Today, at 2:00 p.m. Eastern time, the Company will host a conference call to discuss the third quarter results. The public can listen to the live webcast of the call by visiting Shoe Carnival's Investor Relations page at www.shoecarnival.com. While the question-and-answer session will be available to all listeners, questions from the audience will be limited to institutional analysts and investors. A replay of the webcast will be available on our website beginning approximately two hours after the conclusion of the conference call and will be archived for one year.

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking statements, within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, that involve a number of risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause our actual results, performance, achievements or industry results to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by these forward-looking statements. These factors include, but are not limited to: general economic conditions in the areas of the United States in which our stores are located; changes in the overall retail environment and more specifically in the apparel and footwear retail sectors; our ability to generate increased sales at our stores; the potential impact of national and international security concerns on the retail environment; changes in our relationships with key suppliers; the impact of competition and pricing; changes in weather patterns, consumer buying trends and our ability to identify and respond to emerging fashion trends; the impact of disruptions in our distribution or information technology operations; the effectiveness of our inventory management; the impact of hurricanes or other natural disasters on our stores, as well as on consumer confidence and purchasing in general; risks associated with the seasonality of the retail industry; our ability to successfully execute our growth strategy, including the availability of desirable store locations at acceptable lease terms, our ability to open new stores in a timely and profitable manner and the availability of sufficient funds to implement our growth plans; higher than anticipated costs associated with the closing of underperforming stores; the inability of manufacturers to deliver products in a timely manner; changes in the political and economic environments in the People's Republic of China, Brazil, Spain and East Asia, the primary manufacturers of footwear; and the continued favorable trade relations between the United States and China and the other countries which are the major manufacturers of footwear.

In addition, these forward-looking statements necessarily depend upon assumptions, estimates and dates that may be incorrect or imprecise and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors. Accordingly, any forward-looking statements included in this press release do not purport to be predictions of future events or circumstances and may not be realized. Forward-looking statements can be identified by, among other things, the use of forward-looking terms such as "believes," "expects," "may," "will," "should," "seeks," "pro forma," "anticipates," "intends" or the negative of any of these terms, or comparable terminology, or by discussions of strategy or intentions. Given these uncertainties, we caution investors not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date hereof. We disclaim any obligation to update any of these factors or to publicly announce any revisions to the forward-looking statements contained in this press release to reflect future events or developments.

Shoe Carnival is a chain of 311 footwear stores located in the Midwest, South and Southeast. Combining value pricing with an entertaining store format, Shoe Carnival is a leading retailer of name brand and private label footwear for the entire family. Headquartered in Evansville, IN, Shoe Carnival trades on The NASDAQ Stock Market LLC under the symbol SCVL. Shoe Carnival's press releases and annual report are available on the Company's website at www.shoecarnival.com.

Financial Tables Follow

TABLE

________________New Stores Stores Closings

1st Quarter 2008 2_________0

2nd Quarter 2008 12________2

3rd Quarter 2008 8_________1

4th Quarter 2008 2_________9

Fiscal 2008_____24________12

TABLE

City______________Market/Total Stores in Market

Rapid City, SD____Rapid City/1

Grand Junction, CO Grand Junction/1

Uniontown, PA_____Pittsburgh/3

Monroe, LA________Monroe/1

Meridian, ID______Boise/2

League City, TX___Houston/9

Baytown, TX_______Houston/9

Fort Smith, AR____Fort Smith/3

TABLE

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF INCOME (In thousands, except per share)

Thirteen__Thirteen__Thirty-nine__Thirty-nine

Weeks Ended__Weeks Ended__Weeks Ended__Weeks Ended

November 1, 2008__November 3, 2007__November 1, 2008__November 3, 2007

Net sales__$170,063__$173,881__$490,662__$494,339

Cost of sales (including buying, distribution and occupancy costs)__123,746__123,320__355,119__353,740

Gross profit__46,317__50,561__135,543__140,599

Selling, general and administrative expenses__42,389__43,627__122,373__123,070

Operating income__3,928__6,934__13,170__17,529

Interest income__(62__)__(101__)__(138__)__(611__)

Interest expense__42__115__111__179

Income before income taxes__3,948__6,920__13,197__17,961

Income tax expense__1,341__2,734__4,829__6,281

Net income__$2,607__$4,186__$8,368__$11,680

Net income per share:

Basic__$.21__$.33__$.68__$.89

Diluted__$.21__$.33__$.67__$.87

Average shares outstanding:

Basic__12,431__12,604__12,383__13,065

Diluted__12,539__12,777__12,483__13,362

TABLE

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEETS (In thousands)

November 1, 2008__February 2, 2008__November 3, 2007

ASSETS

Current Assets:

Cash and cash equivalents__$9,143__$9,177__$6,671

Accounts receivable__1,281__411__1,579

Merchandise inventories__194,827__200,781__200,242

Deferred income tax benefit__2,401__2,340__2,558

Other__8,579__7,221__8,368

Total Current Assets__216,231__219,930__219,418

Property and equipment-net__73,541__71,686__74,194

Total Assets__$289,772__$291,616__$293,612

LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY

Current Liabilities:

Accounts payable__$51,074__$67,786__$51,581

Accrued and other liabilities__14,777__10,689__13,355

Total Current Liabilities__65,851__78,475__64,936

Long-term debt__0__0__14,165

Deferred lease incentives__5,012__5,396__5,528

Accrued rent__5,576__5,925__6,124

Deferred income taxes__1,672__399__844

Deferred compensation__2,795__3,559__3,690

Other__1,458__1,250__809

Total Liabilities__82,364__95,004__96,096

Total Shareholders' Equity__207,408__196,612__197,516

Total Liabilities and Shareholders' Equity__$289,772__$291,616__$293,612

TABLE

SHOE CARNIVAL, INC. CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOWS (In thousands)

Thirty-nine Weeks Ended November 1, 2008__Thirty-nine Weeks Ended November 3, 2007

Cash flows from operating activities:

Net income__$8,368__$11,680

Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by (used in) operating activities:

Depreciation and amortization__12,585__11,781

Stock-based compensation__694__1,071

Loss on retirement and impairment of assets__271__508

Deferred income taxes__1,212__(160__)

Deferred lease incentives__817__418

Other__(2,104__)__(545__)

Changes in operating assets and liabilities:

Accounts receivable__(870__)__(631__)

Merchandise inventories__5,954__(3,580__)

Accounts payable and accrued liabilities__(14,771__)__(16,307__)

Other__(1,363__)__(6,543__)

Net cash provided by (used in) operating activities__10,793__(2,308__)

Cash flows from investing activities:

Purchases of property and equipment__(12,575__)__(15,263__)

Proceeds from sale of property and equipment__3__379

Other__0__6

Net cash used in investing activities__(12,572__)__(14,878__)

Cash flows from financing activities:

Borrowings under line of credit__6,625__49,970

Payments on line of credit__(6,625__)__(35,805__)

Proceeds from issuance of stock__1,515__551

Excess tax benefits from stock-based compensation__230__275

Common stock repurchased__0__(25,973__)

Net cash provided by (used in) financing activities__1,745__(10,982__)

Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents__(34__)__(28,168__)

Cash and cash equivalents at beginning of period__9,177__34,839

Cash and Cash Equivalents at End of Period__$9,143__$6,671

Subject: Financial performance; Administrative expenses

Publication title: Business Wire; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 20, 2008

Dateline: EVANSVILLE, Ind.

Publisher: Business Wire

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: Release

ProQuest document ID: 444370728

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/444370728?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Business Wire 2008

Last updated: 2010-06-30

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 282 of 313

GLOBAL CRUISE REGIONS: Gen up on cruise worldwide

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: TTG, Travel Trade Gazette, U.K. and Ireland ; London (Nov 21, 2008): n/a.

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Dubai and other Gulf ports often feature on world or repositioning cruises as ships make their way to Asia. Upmarket lines such as Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas and Silversea also operate some itineraries from Dubai with ships heading towards the Mediterranean or into the Indian Ocean.

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First-timers tend to stick to the Med or Caribbean, but agents need to think further afield to keep attracting regular cruisers. Rob Gill rounds up the global options

As cruise lines continue to add ships to their fleets they have had to become more imaginative with their itineraries.

While the Caribbean and the Mediterranean are still the most popular cruising destinations, there is now a huge range of itineraries elsewhere around the globe offered both by the major cruise lines and niche operators.

Travel counsellor Sarah Bolton, from Bishop's Stortford, said a lot of experienced cruisers were now looking to sail somewhere different such as Asia or the Middle East.

"For newcomers or customers who've only cruised once or twice, main destinations tend to be ex-UK cruises, with Iceland, Greenland and the Arctic being very popular, along with the Norwegian fjords," she said.

Alison Westall, head of Cumbria Cruises, added that the Baltic was a popular destination alongside long-haul options such as China, Australia and New Zealand.

With such a wide choice of destinations, here are some of the main options away from the Caribbean and Mediterranean.

LATIN AMERICA AND ANTARCTICA

Many of the biggest names in cruising, including the likes of Princess Cruises and Royal Caribbean, have major programmes around Central and South America.

Princess has a range of cruises including several that sail up the Amazon, while Royal Caribbean's extensive programme features three, four and six-night cruises around Brazil as well as longer journeys. Sister line Celebrity Cruises also offers 14-night cruises.

Many of these cruises start from US ports, while others embark from major South American cities such Rio, Buenos Aires and Santiago.

The continent's attractions are hugely diverse, ranging from the melting pots of Rio de Janeiro and Buenos Aires to natural wonders such as the Galapagos islands, Chilean fjords and Andes mountains.

Most voyages to Antarctica also start from the southern Argentine port of Ushuaia. Niche operators such as Swan Hellenic, Voyages of Discovery and Hurtigruten offer expedition-style Antarctica programmes, as do upmarket lines such as Regent Seven Seas and Silversea Cruises.

MIDDLE EAST

Dubai is always making waves in the tourism business and now it's starting to gain a foothold as a cruise port with both Costa and Royal Caribbean deciding to base ships from the emirate.

Costa is sailing seven itineraries calling at Abu Dhabi, Oman and Bahrain next year while Royal Caribbean will be basing Brilliance of the Seas from the city from January 2010.

Dubai and other Gulf ports often feature on world or repositioning cruises as ships make their way to Asia. Upmarket lines such as Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas and Silversea also operate some itineraries from Dubai with ships heading towards the Mediterranean or into the Indian Ocean.

AFRICA

While north African destinations are well served by the huge range of ships touring around the Mediterranean, the rest of the continent also features on several itineraries.

Some world cruises sail down the west coast of Africa to Cape Town, as an alternative to travelling through the Suez Canal in Egypt.

Travelling along this coastline allows passengers to visit countries such as Senegal, Gambia and Namibia, as well as the Cape Verde islands and St Helena.

Customers don't even need to fly to experience these cruises as Fred Olsen offers several round-trips from the UK to Cape Verde.

In southern and eastern Africa, some companies offer departures from Cape Town and the Kenyan resort of Mombasa.

Silversea offers a couple of trips from both ports calling at destinations such as Zanzibar, Madagascar and Assumption Island.

Hebridean International Cruises is basing Spirit in southern Africa and the Indian Ocean for winter 2008-09 with journeys around South Africa, Namibia and Mozambique. Voyages of Discovery also features cruises around the region.

ALASKA

Cruises to Alaska have become part of the mainstream in recent years with all the major US-orientated lines, such as Carnival, NCL, Princess and Royal Caribbean, operating trips to the US's biggest state.

These voyages normally start from Seattle or Vancouver and make their way up the Inside Passage taking in some of the world's most spectacular scenery. Many customers combine an Alaska cruise with a land tour.

BALTIC AND NORWEGIAN FJORDS

The Baltic is the second-most popular cruise region in the European summer season, with most major lines offering a wide choice of trips to the Nordic region.

Some of Europe's most stunning cities, such as St Petersburg, Stockholm and Tallinn, feature on Baltic itineraries, while Norway's natural attractions include its iconic fjords and, of course, the midnight sun.

P&O offers sailings around the Baltic and to the Norwegian fjords, as well as to Iceland and Greenland. Hurtigruten is also famed for its coastal voyages around Norway.

FAR EAST & AUSTRALASIA

The Far East, particularly China, has seen a big growth in cruise business.

Lines such as Princess, Holland America, Costa and Royal Caribbean brand Azamara offer itineraries in Asia. Many cruises start from Hong Kong and head north to China and Japan, while southern voyages visit Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia and Singapore.

Australia and New Zealand feature on most world cruises by lines such as P&O Cruises, while Holland America, Princess and Royal Caribbean also sail in the region.

Copyright: CMP Information Ltd.

Subject: Cruise lines; International

Classification: 9180: International; 8350: Transportation & travel industry

Publication title: TTG, Travel Trade Gazette, U.K. and Ireland; London

Pages: n/a

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 21, 2008

Dateline: GB United Kingdom, EU

Publisher: TTG Media Limited

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: Travel And Tourism

ISSN: 02624397

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 235895529

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/235895529?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright : 2008 CMP Information Ltd.)

Last updated: 2017-10-31

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 283 of 313

Research and Markets: Merchant Shipping - Global Strategic Business Report Out Now

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: M2 Presswire ; Coventry [Coventry]21 Nov 2008.

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Abstract:

The global outlook series on Merchant Shipping provides a collection of statistical anecdotes, market briefs, and concise summaries of research findings. Richly laden with quantitative analysis, the report offers discussion on the basics and structure of the Merchant Shipping industry. Annotated with 52 information rich tables presenting research findings, and analytical projections, the synopsized market discussion provides a statistical insight into global marine water transportation market size by region, marine ports and services market by region, leading cruise ship owners by gross tonnage/berths, trading fleet & merchant shipping fleet by ship type, cargo traffic by volume, containerized freight traffic by volume, container throughput across ports by region, chemical cargo, seaborne coal, and iron ore volume shipments by category, among numerous other parameters.

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M2 PRESSWIRE-November 21, 2008-Research and Markets: Merchant Shipping - Global Strategic Business Report Out Now (C)1994-2008 M2 COMMUNICATIONS LTD

Dublin - Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/68b443/merchant_shipping) has announced the addition of the "Merchant Shipping - Global Strategic Business Report" report to their offering.

The global outlook series on Merchant Shipping provides a collection of statistical anecdotes, market briefs, and concise summaries of research findings. Richly laden with quantitative analysis, the report offers discussion on the basics and structure of the Merchant Shipping industry. Annotated with 52 information rich tables presenting research findings, and analytical projections, the synopsized market discussion provides a statistical insight into global marine water transportation market size by region, marine ports and services market by region, leading cruise ship owners by gross tonnage/berths, trading fleet & merchant shipping fleet by ship type, cargo traffic by volume, containerized freight traffic by volume, container throughput across ports by region, chemical cargo, seaborne coal, and iron ore volume shipments by category, among numerous other parameters. Major regional markets discussed include United States, Europe, Russia, China, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, Latin America, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, and Venezuela. The abstracted regional market discussions provide a prelude to these markets. The report also includes an indexed, easy-to-refer, fact-finder directory listing the addresses, and contact details of 482 companies worldwide.

Key Topics Covered:

-MERCHANT SHIPPING

-A GLOBAL OUTLOOK, SEPTEMBER 2008

-1. Overview

-2. Mergers & Acquisitions

-3. Strategic Corporate Development

-4. Product Launches

-5. A North American Perspective

--6. A European Perspective

-7. An Asian Perspective

-8. A Latin American Perspective

-GLOBAL DIRECTORY

Companies Mentioned:

-Minorca

-Quebec Cartier Mining Company

-USS - Minntac/ Keetac

-Iron Ore Company of Canada

-Star Cruises Group

-Mediterranean Shipping Cruises (MSC)

-Carnival Group

-Royal Caribbean

-Royal-Dutch Shell Group

-ChevronTexaco Corp

For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/68b443/merchant_shipping

CONTACT: Laura Wood, Senior Manager, Research and Markets

Fax: +1 646 607 1907 (from USA)

Fax: +353 1 481 1716 (rest of the world)

e-mail: press@researchandmarkets.com

((M2 Communications Ltd disclaims all liability for information provided within M2 PressWIRE. Data supplied by named party/parties. Further information on M2 PressWIRE can be obtained at http://www.presswire.net on the world wide web. Inquiries to info@m2.com)).

Company: M2 Communications Ltd

Publication title: M2 Presswire; Coventry

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 21, 2008

Publisher: Normans Media Ltd

Place of publication: Coventry

Country of publication: United Kingdom, Coventry

Publication subject: Communications

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 444364537

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/444 364537?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright M2 Communications Ltd. 2008)

Last updated: 2010-06-30

Database: SciTech Premium Collection

Document 284 of 313

Research and Markets: Merchant Shipping - Global Strategic Business Report Out Now

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Business Wire ; New York [New York]21 Nov 2008. [Duplicate]

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Annotated with 52 information-rich tables presenting research findings, and analytical projections, the synopsized market discussion provides a statistical insight into global marine water transportation market size by region, marine ports and services market by region, leading cruise ship owners by gross tonnage/berths, trading fleet & merchant shipping fleet by ship type, cargo traffic by volume, containerized freight traffic by volume, container throughput across ports by region, chemical cargo, seaborne coal, and iron ore volume shipments by category, among numerous other parameters.

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Full text:

Research and Markets

Laura Wood

Senior Manager

press@researchandmarkets.com

Fax from USA: 646-607-1907

Fax from rest of the world: +353-1-481-1716

Research and Markets (http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/3c7a33/merchant_shipping) has announced the addition of the "Merchant Shipping - Global Strategic Business Report" report to their offering.

The global outlook series on Merchant Shipping provides a collection of statistical anecdotes, market briefs, and concise summaries of research findings. Richly laden with quantitative analysis, the report offers discussion on the basics and structure of the Merchant Shipping industry. Annotated with 52 information-rich tables presenting research findings, and analytical projections, the synopsized market discussion provides a statistical insight into global marine water transportation market size by region, marine ports and services market by region, leading cruise ship owners by gross tonnage/berths, trading fleet & merchant shipping fleet by ship type, cargo traffic by volume, containerized freight traffic by volume, container throughput across ports by region, chemical cargo, seaborne coal, and iron ore volume shipments by category, among numerous other parameters. Major regional markets discussed include United States, Europe, Russia, China, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, Latin America, Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru, and Venezuela. The abstracted regional market discussions provide a prelude to these markets. The report also includes an indexed, easy-to-refer, fact-finder directory listing the addresses, and contact details of 482 companies worldwide.

Key Topics Covered:

-MERCHANT SHIPPING

-A GLOBAL OUTLOOK, SEPTEMBER 2008

-1. Overview

-2. Mergers & Acquisitions

-3. Strategic Corporate Development

-4. Product Launches

-5. A North American Perspective

-6. A European Perspective

-7. An Asian Perspective

-8. A Latin American Perspective

-GLOBAL DIRECTORY

Companies Mentioned:

-Minorca

-Quebec Cartier Mining Company

-USS - Minntac/ Keetac

-Iron Ore Company of Canada

-Star Cruises Group

-Mediterranean Shipping Cruises (MSC)

-Carnival Group

-Royal Caribbean

-Royal-Dutch Shell Group

-ChevronTexaco Corp

For more information visit http://www.researchandmarkets.com/research/3c7a33/merchant_shipping.

Subject: Shipping industry; Water transportation; Acquisitions & mergers

Publication title: Business Wire; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 21, 2008

Dateline: DUBLIN, Ireland

Publisher: Business Wire

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: Release

ProQuest document ID: 444367789

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/444367789?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Business Wire 2008

Last updated: 2010-06-30

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 285 of 313

The Diary: Simon Schama

Author: Schama, Simon

Publication info: FT.com ; London (Nov 22, 2008).

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Abstract: None available.

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Mid-November ... so it's spring, or it is in Brazil, which meant that that's where I had to be to get out of the way of autumn in New York: pumpkins, the dirge-like descent of leaves, a lot of suburban happy talk about crisp weather when I'm still lamenting the departure of uncrisp summer, the time of sweaty rot that's my idea of perfect climate. And it was just possible I'd said all I could ever say (for a while, at least) about Barack Obama, so time to change the subject and talk to 800 Brazilians about Picasso and Goya for a change. Well, they had asked for it.

"They" were the benevolent patrons of a university seminar in Porto Alegre, right on the southern border with Argentina and Uruguay, called "Boundaries of Thought" across which, I assumed, one was invited to stride. Camille Paglia, a boundary-crosser if ever there was one, had been there last year talking about sex in art - for two-and-a-half hours, the sponsors said. They looked at me earnestly as they said it and winced, I thought, at that much sex from Professor Paglia. But my subject was calamity and an hour of that seemed more than enough.

I had been to Brazil 10 years before to promote the translation of Landscape and Memory and was easily infatuated. Glimpses of heaven and hell opened up: tall women glided on the street rather than walked as if they were tuning up their samba moves; herons and egrets nested amid sewage and detergent scum on the canal between the airport and So Paulo; the innocent intensity of journalists wanting to be told the history of a free press in Britain when they were still cagey about liberating theirs after the military dictatorship; being trapped happily in the embrace of an immense hulk of a man, glittering with sequins, who grinned and said: "I am Roberto, king of the favela, now you must come and talk to us ... ".

"Sim!" I said, "yes!" while my publisher, a sweet but fretful soul, swung his head from side to side while rolling his eyes (no small feat even for a Brazilian) which I gathered was a no. Despondent, Roberto planted a juicy kiss full on my mouth, which was a first for a book tour but did nothing to alter the publisher's irrevocable ban. In Rio, at Ipanema, long-legged kids booted footballs on the beach while others demanded money when you parked the car, promising to "look after it", the alternative being not worth thinking about.

Oh, yes, I love Brazil, but Porto Alegre was different: less tropical; more, sigh, European. There is much talk about the Germans and the Italians who came there, and on to the plane came a pack of the former, drunk at noon; planting themselves wherever seats seemed to beckon, despising mere boarding-pass seat assignment; mighty shouts of "Markus" and "Thomas" roaring down the aisles for no particular reason anyone could make out except as an expression of Kameradschaft in the southern hemisphere. The plane skirted the Atlantic coast, breakers curling below while the flight attendants pretended to have run out of beer.

Porto Alegre is an instantly appealing place, foaming with blue jacaranda blossoms, merry with sidewalk cafs set between 19th-century Brazilian town houses, their gables as curly as a gaucho's whiskers with snazzy touches of crimson or gold paint. It was Sunday, which meant, even in the Sheraton, that feijoada was on; a gamut of darkly stewed meats together with the manioc farofa I remember loving on that first trip and did again: it's fluffy and gritty at the same time which doesn't sound enticing but somehow is. In the park, a boy pulled out his guitar and sang samba to impress while a circle of capoeira devotees went through their clambering motions to a dull drum beat.

A book fair was in swing; not the kind boasting marquee events with the usual suspects but a pretty, shady piazza laid out with 50 or so stalls, each the size of a bouquiniste, displaying the wares of local publishers and booksellers. The organisers were proud of the egalitarian principle, and it was astonishing in the age when the death of print is prematurely announced to find a smallish Brazilian city where little presses seemed to be around every corner. Charles Kiefer, the handsome professor with whom we had lunch, walked us over to one of the stalls and showed us the 30-odd volumes that collected the fiction of his students. Another year, another volume, and the professor couldn't have been happier. If Brazilian fiction were ever in danger, it wouldn't be his fault. Myself, I was reading The Adventures and Misadventures of Maqroll, novellas by the Columbian author Alvaro Mutis so richly, spectacularly, sensually wondrous you hate him for ever stopping. "Ah," said Kiefer, "so good," as if he had filled his mouth with fine wine, and then, sighing a little, thought I might, in that case, enjoy a small exhibition over at the local bank devoted to Gilberto Freyre. Freyre! I hadn't thought about him for 40-odd years; a poet among historians; a romancer of the Brazilian difference: slavery and the Casa Grande, somehow made less brutal by miscegenation; the cradle of a mixed-blood culture. Oh sure. Samba slavery. Doesn't count. I had wised up to the fantasy a long time ago but there was, nonetheless, something wickedly beautiful about Freyre's dreamy writing and the show beneath the stained-glass ceiling advertising "Prudence", "Enterprise" and such like, unerringly harvested the spell. Displays of Freyre's tropically coloured paintings were set above trays of sand; peeling cabinets with drawers were opened to reveal faded banquet menus, dog-eared photographs and diary entries. You entered the whole thing through the skirts of a giant carnival mannequin. Another Brazilian seduction; and I could feel my portion of northern scepticism draining away into the gentle afternoon.

The lecture was delivered: a generously receptive 800, most of whom seemed to want to ask questions and most of them did. Eventually, our hosts ushered us off to an upscale French restaurant where it would have been churlish to turn down the foie gras. It wasn't until our last night in So Paulo that we were taken, by Marcello Dantas, the designer of many of Brazil's most brilliant museums and exhibitions, to a place that boasted serious native cooking: Amazon fish ("neither salt nor freshwater," said Dantas, beaming, "just packed with big river nutrients"); fresh hearts of palm, warm and silky on the tongue; stupendously subtle banana ice-cream (a contradiction in terms, but go figure). The place is called Brasil a Gusto. It's better than anywhere in London.

If you fly in to So Paulo from another Brazilian city, you'll land (if you use the local airport) in a startling place: bristling with tower blocks set close and white like the model for Blade Runner; a city 120km across; piled up favela slums; stunning fashion by designers such as Rosa Cha and Gloria Coelho who does things with sequins that I can't begin to explain in the Financial Times. And yet, this wild, teeming antheap of a place has no billboards. The mayor, Gilberto Kassab, a Syrian-Paulista, decided they were "visual pollution" and gave owners 30 days to get rid of them. The fine for failing to do so was 10,000 reals (about 2,500) a day. So the place throbs along beneath its pall of traffic fumes; just 11m Paulistas trying to get to the end of the week. A place for heroes.

On the way back to New York, my nose in Mutis's journeyings of Maqroll the Lookout, I'd look out myself to the fading shoreline of the tropic forest and feel wistful. Brazil is one of the places where your nerve-endings work overtime and you never want them to stop their dancing little hum and buzz.

Back in the Hudson Valley, everything decelerated. The farmers' market at the local train station was loaded with good stuff. People bustled autumnally, chirpy with the delight of a fine new president.

Simon Schama is author of 'The American Future: A History', published by The Bodley Head, 20

Credit: By Simon Schama

People: Freyre, Gilberto

Publication title: FT.com; London

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 22, 2008

Publisher: The Financial Times Limited

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 229190206

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/229190206?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright Financial Times Ltd. 2008. All rights reserved.)

Last updated: 2017-11-08

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 286 of 313

The Diary

Author: Schama, Simon

Publication info: Financial Times ; London (UK) [London (UK)]22 Nov 2008: 2.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Porto Alegre is an instantly appealing place, foaming with blue jacaranda blossoms, merry with sidewalk cafes set between 19th-century Brazilian town houses, their gables as curly as a gaucho's whiskers with snazzy touches of crimson or gold paint. It was Sunday, which meant, even in the Sheraton, that feijoada was on; a gamut of darkly stewed meats together with the manioc farofa I remember loving on that first trip and did again: it's fluffy and gritty at the same time which doesn't sound enticing but somehow is. In the park, a boy pulled out his guitar and sang samba to impress while a circle of capoeira devotees went through their clambering motions to a dull drum beat. A book fair was in swing; not the kind boasting marquee events with the usual suspects but a pretty, shady piazza laid out with 50 or so stalls, each the size of a bouquiniste , displaying the wares of local publishers and booksellers. The organisers were proud of the egalitarian principle, and it was astonishing in the age when the death of print is prematurely announced to find a smallish Brazilian city where little presses seemed to be around every corner. Charles Kiefer, the handsome professor with whom we had lunch, walked us over to one of the stalls and showed us the 30-odd volumes that collected the fiction of his students. Another year, another volume, and the professor couldn't have been happier. If Brazilian fiction were ever in danger, it wouldn't be his fault. Myself, I was reading The Adventures and Misadventures of Maqroll , novellas by the Columbian author Alvaro Mutis so richly, spectacularly, sensually wondrous you hate him for ever stopping. "Ah," said Kiefer, "so good," as if he had filled his mouth with fine wine, and then, sighing a little, thought I might, in that case, enjoy a small exhibition over at the local bank devoted to Gilberto Freyre. Freyre! I hadn't thought about him for 40-odd years; a poet among historians; a romancer of the Brazilian difference: slavery and the Casa Grande, somehow made less brutal by miscegenation; the cradle of a mixed-blood culture. Oh sure. Samba slavery. Doesn't count. I had wised up to the fantasy a long time ago but there was, nonetheless, something wickedly beautiful about Freyre's dreamy writing and the show beneath the stained-glass ceiling advertising "Prudence", "Enterprise" and such like, unerringly harvested the spell. Displays of Freyre's tropically coloured paintings were set above trays of sand; peeling cabinets with drawers were opened to reveal faded banquet menus, dog-eared photographs and diary entries. You entered the whole thing through the skirts of a giant carnival mannequin.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Mid-November . . . so it's spring, or it is in Brazil, which meant that that's where I had to be to get out of the way of autumn in New York: pumpkins, the dirge-like descent of leaves, a lot of suburban happy talk about crisp weather when I'm still lamenting the departure of uncrisp summer, the time of sweaty rot that's my idea of perfect climate. And it was just possible I'd said all I could ever say (for a while, at least) about Barack Obama, so time to change the subject and talk to 800 Brazilians about Picasso and Goya for a change. Well, they had asked for it.

"They" were the benevolent patrons of a university seminar in Porto Alegre, right on the southern border with Argentina and Uruguay, called "Boundaries of Thought" across which, I assumed, one was invited to stride. Camille Paglia, a boundary- crosser if ever there was one, had been there last year talking about sex in art - for two-and-a-half hours, the sponsors said. They looked at me earnestly as they said it and winced, I thought, at that much sex from Professor Paglia. But my subject was calamity and an hour of that seemed more than enough.

I had been to Brazil 10 years before to promote the translation of Landscape and Memory and was easily infatuated. Glimpses of heaven and hell opened up: tall women glided on the street rather than walked as if they were tuning up their samba moves; herons and egrets nested amid sewage and detergent scum on the canal between the airport and Sao Paulo; the innocent intensity of journalists wanting to be told the history of a free press in Britain when they were still cagey about liberating theirs after the military dictatorship; being trapped happily in the embrace of an immense hulk of a man, glittering with sequins, who grinned and said: "I am Roberto, king of the favela, now you must come and talk to us . . . ".

" Sim! " I said, "yes!" while my publisher, a sweet but fretful soul, swung his head from side to side while rolling his eyes (no small feat even for a Brazilian) which I gathered was a no. Despondent, Roberto planted a juicy kiss full on my mouth, which was a first for a book tour but did nothing to alter the publisher's irrevocable ban. In Rio, at Ipanema, long-legged kids booted footballs on the beach while others demanded money when you parked the car, promising to "look after it", the alternative being not worth thinking about.

Oh, yes, I love Brazil, but Porto Alegre was different: less tropical; more, sigh, European. There is much talk about the Germans and the Italians who came there, and on to the plane came a pack of the former, drunk at noon; planting themselves wherever seats seemed to beckon, despising mere boarding-pass seat assignment; mighty shouts of "Markus" and "Thomas" roaring down the aisles for no particular reason anyone could make out except as an expression of Kameradschaft in the southern hemisphere. The plane skirted the Atlantic coast, breakers curling below while the flight attendants pretended to have run out of beer.

Porto Alegre is an instantly appealing place, foaming with blue jacaranda blossoms, merry with sidewalk cafes set between 19th-century Brazilian town houses, their gables as curly as a gaucho's whiskers with snazzy touches of crimson or gold paint. It was Sunday, which meant, even in the Sheraton, that feijoada was on; a gamut of darkly stewed meats together with the manioc farofa I remember loving on that first trip and did again: it's fluffy and gritty at the same time which doesn't sound enticing but somehow is. In the park, a boy pulled out his guitar and sang samba to impress while a circle of capoeira devotees went through their clambering motions to a dull drum beat. A book fair was in swing; not the kind boasting marquee events with the usual suspects but a pretty, shady piazza laid out with 50 or so stalls, each the size of a bouquiniste , displaying the wares of local publishers and booksellers. The organisers were proud of the egalitarian principle, and it was astonishing in the age when the death of print is prematurely announced to find a smallish Brazilian city where little presses seemed to be around every corner. Charles Kiefer, the handsome professor with whom we had lunch, walked us over to one of the stalls and showed us the 30-odd volumes that collected the fiction of his students. Another year, another volume, and the professor couldn't have been happier. If Brazilian fiction were ever in danger, it wouldn't be his fault. Myself, I was reading The Adventures and Misadventures of Maqroll , novellas by the Columbian author Alvaro Mutis so richly, spectacularly, sensually wondrous you hate him for ever stopping. "Ah," said Kiefer, "so good," as if he had filled his mouth with fine wine, and then, sighing a little, thought I might, in that case, enjoy a small exhibition over at the local bank devoted to Gilberto Freyre. Freyre! I hadn't thought about him for 40-odd years; a poet among historians; a romancer of the Brazilian difference: slavery and the Casa Grande, somehow made less brutal by miscegenation; the cradle of a mixed-blood culture. Oh sure. Samba slavery. Doesn't count. I had wised up to the fantasy a long time ago but there was, nonetheless, something wickedly beautiful about Freyre's dreamy writing and the show beneath the stained-glass ceiling advertising "Prudence", "Enterprise" and such like, unerringly harvested the spell. Displays of Freyre's tropically coloured paintings were set above trays of sand; peeling cabinets with drawers were opened to reveal faded banquet menus, dog-eared photographs and diary entries. You entered the whole thing through the skirts of a giant carnival mannequin. Another Brazilian seduction; and I could feel my portion of northern scepticism draining away into the gentle afternoon. The lecture was delivered: a generously receptive 800, most of whom seemed to want to ask questions and most of them did. Eventually, our hosts ushered us off to an upscale French restaurant where it would have been churlish to turn down the foie gras. It wasn't until our last night in Sao Paulo that we were taken, by Marcello Dantas, the designer of many of Brazil's most brilliant museums and exhibitions, to a place that boasted serious native cooking: Amazon fish ("neither salt nor freshwater," said Dantas, beaming, "just packed with big river nutrients"); fresh hearts of palm, warm and silky on the tongue; stupendously subtle banana ice-cream (a contradiction in terms, but go figure). The place is called Brasil a Gusto. It's better than anywhere in London.

If you fly in to Sao Paulo from another Brazilian city you'll land (if you use the local airport) in a startling place: bristling with tower blocks set close and white like the model for Blade Runner ; a city 120km across; piled up favela slums; stunning fashion by designers such as Rosa Cha and Gloria Coelho who does things with sequins that I can't begin to explain in the Financial Times. And yet, this wild, teeming antheap of a place has no billboards . The mayor, Gilberto Kassab, a Syrian-Paulista, decided they were "visual pollution" and gave owners 30 days to get rid of them. The fine for failing to do so was 10,000 reals (about pound(s)2,500) a day. So the place throbs along beneath its pall of traffic fumes; just 11m Paulistas trying to get to the end of the week. A place for heroes.

On the way back to New York, my nose in Mutis's journeyings of Maqroll the Lookout , I'd look out myself to the fading shoreline of the tropic forest and feel wistful. Brazil is one of the places where your nerve-endings work overtime and you never want them to stop their dancing little hum and buzz.

Back in the Hudson Valley, everything decelerated. The farmers' market at the local train station was loaded with good stuff. People bustled autumnally, chirpy with the delight of a fine new president.

Simon Schama is author of 'The American Future: A History', published by The Bodley Head, pound(s)20

Credit: By Simon Schama

People: Freyre, Gilberto

Publication title: Financial Times; London (UK)

First page: 2

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 22, 2008

Section: FT WEEKEND SUPPLEMENT - LIFE & ARTS

Publisher: The Financial Times Limited

Place of publication: London (UK)

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London (UK)

Publication subject: Business And Economics--Banking And Finance, Political Science

ISSN: 03071766

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 250143963

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/250143963?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright Financial Times Ltd. 2008. All rights reserved.)

Last updated: 2017-11-14

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 287 of 313

November 25, 2008 (Page 27 of 28)

Publication info: Asheville Citizen-Times (1991-2011) ; Asheville, North Carolina [Asheville, North Carolina]25 Nov 2008: 27.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Asheville Citizen-Times (1991-2011); Asheville, North Carolina

Volume: 138

Issue: 330

First page: 27

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 25, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Asheville, North Carolina

Country of publication: United States, Asheville, North Carolina

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 1060-3255

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: En glish

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2125883222

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2125883222?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Nov 25, 2008

Last updated: 2018-10-27

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 288 of 313

OppenheimerFunds Inc. 3Q 13F: Holdings As Of Sept 30

Publication info: Dow Jones Institutional News ; New York [New York]28 Nov 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

DJ CFA SOURCE: SEC 13F-HR
FILER: OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
QUARTER ENDED: 09/30/2008
SEC RECEIVED: 11/14/2008

The following sets forth up to 200 of the largest holdings of OppenheimerFunds Inc. in terms of value as of Sept. 30, 2008, according to a Form 13F filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on Nov. 14.

As of Sept. 30, 2008, OppenheimerFunds Inc. held 3,647 positions valued at $95,480,564,682.

Below are up to 200 of OppenheimerFunds Inc.'s largest holdings as of Sept. 30, 2008, in order of dollar value.

Company NameValueHoldingsChange
MICROSOFT CORP COM$999,946,05537,465,195(4,553,968)
EXXON MOBIL CORP COM$847,191,85310,908,986(6,185,684)
INFOSYS TECHNOLOGIES LTD ORD$834,788,58320,975,942(217,569)
QUALCOMM INC COM$776,815,87118,078,0988,234,922
ERICSSON TELEFON AB ORD B$775,378,71168,215,776(5,863,292)
CISCO SYSTEMS INC COM$727,017,79332,225,966462,875
TAIWAN SEMICONDUCTOR MFG CO LT$697,001,535373,209,07423,541,028
ROCHE HOLDING AG ORD DRC$686,385,6534,053,181(53,786)
MONSANTO CO COM$654,650,6526,613,96959,864
GENERAL ELECTRIC CO COM$615,144,58424,123,3174,804,049
SIEMENS AG ORD$613,466,5975,611,18318,951
CONOCOPHILLIPS COM$559,271,2227,635,102(591,832)
HSBC HOLDINGS PLC ORD$555,929,18435,215,949(259,284)
GOOGLE INC CL A$545,754,7611,350,945(286,504)
ADOBE SYSTEMS INC COM$532,922,12413,501,954(787,856)
MEDIATEK INC ORD$518,682,46344,633,588(11,699,373)
CITIGROUP INC COM$512,117,75924,969,1742,175,927
CREDIT SUISSE GROUP ORD REG$505,625,82810,857,362579,120
CHEVRON CORP COM$488,013,9525,916,755(1,381,389)
JPMORGAN CHASE & CO INC COM$487,397,39310,436,7755,420,167
APPLE INC COM$487,168,9244,286,195215,739
HENNES & MAURITZ AB ORD B$483,943,9949,712,680(419,460)
GRUPO TELEVISA SA ADR PC (A/L$482,422,06322,058,6221,196,900
WAL MART STORES INC COM$475,338,6657,936,862(1,943,711)
GOLDMAN SACHS GROUP INC COM$474,774,4003,709,175(64,534)
OCCIDENTAL PETROLEUM CORP COM$474,211,7726,731,182(1,097,169)
EBAY INC COM$467,598,09720,893,570(1,257,639)
EVEREST RE GROUP LTD COM$463,486,4375,356,36783,239
DEVON ENERGY CORP COM$461,048,3765,055,3551,060,041
LUKOIL HOLDINGS ADR$441,318,9171,475,983(640,400)
LOCKHEED MARTIN CORP COM$430,943,6593,929,458(247,816)
PHILIP MORRIS INTERNATIONAL IN$420,579,5708,743,858(2,716,090)
GAZPROM OAO ADR REG S$415,143,33010,685,8001,516,450
TRANSOCEAN INC COM$414,391,8303,772,686(343,603)
AT&T INC COM$410,430,47714,700,232(5,886,721)
AETNA INC COM$410,362,77911,364,2422,492,179
PETROBRAS ADR NVTG$403,764,53210,790,0735,916,417
SCHLUMBERGER LTD COM$402,535,6775,154,766(325,219)
SAP AG ORD$399,929,2587,111,1246,267
TECHNIP SA ORD$394,930,8254,777,379(186,804)
LVMH-LOUIS VUITTON MOET HEN O$392,622,6583,667,24511,296
ABB LTD ORD REG$385,607,66415,605,4611,006,980
ABBOTT LABS COM$383,808,9336,665,664(96,547)
FOMENTO ECON MEX (FEMSA) ORD$375,707,58684,816,1572,933,705
NESTLE SA ORD REG$373,612,2918,443,561643,711
CREDIT SUISSE GROUP ADR$371,617,2927,697,127(1,577,622)
UNITED TECHNOLOGIES CORP COM$369,608,5196,153,988(396,335)
SONY CORP ORD$369,016,1289,445,15987,095
WELLPOINT INC COM$361,373,7847,726,615(253,433)
INTUIT INC COM$355,467,75811,245,42156,041
HESS CORP COM$352,938,3364,299,9312,754,169
COCA COLA CO COM$350,065,4416,619,997(1,639,128)
COLGATE PALMOLIVE CO COM$349,776,2824,642,0211,685,070
LUBRIZOL CORP COM$347,211,5138,048,4821,036,084
INTERNATIONAL BUSINESS MACHINE$342,237,4752,926,107(263,975)
XTO ENERGY INC COM$341,620,1327,343,5111,318,767
ORASCOM TELECOM HOLDING ORD$339,020,65733,410,9912,537,642
MCDONALDS CORP COM$336,899,1535,460,278(93,222)
WALT DISNEY CO COM$334,143,20610,887,690(976,632)
RAYTHEON CO COM$333,386,9386,230,367199,304
HEWLETT PACKARD CO COM$331,061,5227,159,635(1,117,218)
HUSKY ENERGY INC COM$329,591,4367,445,870(721,616)
LAM RESEARCH CORP COM$326,542,76610,369,729(160,333)
LIBERTY GLOBAL INC CL C$319,069,90011,358,843(1,154,650)
JUNIPER NETWORKS INC COM$312,800,12114,845,758(621,255)
ALLIANZ SE ORD REG$305,139,7211,816,4844,828
CORNING INC COM$304,342,29519,459,226(1,223,627)
BOEING CO COM$303,986,0265,300,541(818,912)
CARNIVAL CORP PAIRED CTF$302,015,8008,543,587(97,317)
EMBRAER (EMP BRASIL AERO) ADR$301,982,84711,180,40960,600
JOHNSON & JOHNSON COM$300,358,0364,335,422(280,394)
PHILIPS ELECTRONICS NV ORD$299,983,7129,161,811138,563
3M CO COM$298,494,1394,369,699(106,754)
INTEL CORP COM$295,000,72215,750,172(1,356,220)
SIEMENS AG ADR$294,567,0123,137,363(607,059)
BM&F BOVESPA SA ORD$292,959,87130,905,54814,259,701
EMERSON ELECTRIC CO COM$285,319,7686,994,846(163,054)
PFIZER INC COM$282,981,34615,346,060577,828
AUTOMATIC DATA PROCESSING INC$278,256,8006,508,931(1,538,798)
LORILLARD INC COM$274,144,0813,853,044(136,087)
EASTMAN CHEMICAL CO COM$273,150,9534,960,969732,239
EADS (EURO AERO DEFENCE SPACE)$272,600,48914,332,72254,377
RESEARCH IN MOTION LTD COM$267,809,2183,921,072572,050
EXPRESS SCRIPTS INC COM$267,304,7303,621,034(305,845)
FORTUM OYJ ORD$266,175,2246,447,74822,989
KDDI CORP (DDI) ORD$262,557,74844,522197
SHIONOGI & CO LTD ORD$262,478,43011,509,279(1,152,031)
FIRSTENERGY CORP COM$262,275,7653,915,148(556,304)
SLM CORP COM$260,633,47321,121,02721,116,827
PROCTER & GAMBLE CO COM$260,372,5723,736,15457,142
SANOFI AVENTIS SA ORD$256,433,5383,583,1721,367
PEPSICO INC COM$252,419,7393,541,7391,210,615
AMERICA MOVIL SAB ADR L$250,912,1425,412,255(1,033,426)
HINDUSTAN UNILEVER (LEVER) OR$247,772,37744,359,76954,632
PRAXAIR INC COM$245,188,8833,417,7433,596
INDUSTRIA DISENO TEXTIL INDITE$245,002,1235,223,27130,290
HOUSING DEVELOPMENT FIN (HDFC)$244,703,1194,587,303(470,998)
BAXTER INTERNATIONAL INC COM$242,060,3073,688,257146,908
BP PLC ADR$240,908,3634,801,84151,286
TEXAS INSTRUMENTS INC COM$237,474,61711,045,3312,180,216
ADVANCED MICRO DEVICES INC CO$236,650,50245,076,28652,863
CROWN CASTLE INTERNATIONAL COR$235,839,4978,140,818958,860
AUTODESK INC COM$233,555,9776,961,430(53,030)
FOCUS MEDIA HOLDING LTD ADR$233,145,9428,177,690754,420
BAYERISCHE MOTOR WERKE BMW OR$232,909,0435,649,978(17,074)
SUMITOMO MITSUI FINANCIAL GROU$232,075,12829,5807,584
PT TELEKOMUNIKASI INDONESIA O$231,173,052264,403,253(11,711,247)
THERMO FISHER SC (ELECTRON) IN$230,133,4204,184,244(247,744)
GRUPO FINANCIERO BANORTE ORD$229,685,98257,033,1003,126,400
SCHERING PLOUGH CORP COM$229,218,16712,410,296(534,983)
RANGE RESOURCES CORP COM$228,828,1855,337,723825,499
MORGAN STANLEY COM$227,440,8139,888,7318,689,581
NORTHROP GRUMMAN CORP COM$227,097,6483,751,200(65,090)
PRUDENTIAL FINANCIAL INC COM$220,402,9443,061,152249,509
AFLAC INC COM$218,868,4253,725,42032,862
TAKE-TWO INTERACTIVE SOFTWARE$218,169,39713,303,0123,403,926
LAS VEGAS SANDS CORP COM$216,945,9556,007,919374,030
ASSA ABLOY AB ORD B$216,008,39815,702,3131,043,932
GILEAD SCIENCES INC COM$213,597,5894,681,078(3,290,565)
TIFFANY & CO COM$212,136,2385,972,304(421,055)
CREE INC COM$211,761,0589,295,920(428,164)
VISA INC CL A$209,141,5493,406,76971,000
ALTERA CORP COM$207,212,15210,019,930(445,190)
TOTAL SA ORD$205,884,4872,851,32917,662

(MORE TO FOLLOW)

November 28, 2008 13:35 ET (18:35 GMT)

Subject: Acquisitions & mergers; Project finance; Alliances

Company / organization: Name: Securities & Exchange Commission; NAICS: 926150; Name: BP PLC; NAICS: 211111, 324110, 447110; Name: Value Holdings; NAICS: 551112; Name: AT & T Inc; NAICS: 517110, 517210

Publication title: Dow Jones Institutional News; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 28, 2008

Publisher: Dow Jones & Company Inc

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2242234855

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2242234855?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Dow Jones & Company Inc Nov 28, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-18

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 289 of 313

The worst times can be the best times

Author: Sull, Donald

Publication info: FT.com ; London (Nov 30, 2008).

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

The world has changed. After years of benign economic conditions, the four horsemen of financial apocalypse - credit crunch, recession, volatility and uncertainty - are blazing a trail across the horizon.

Executives must now reassess their organisation's agenda and communicate it clearly. If history is a guide, most will frame the current conditions as a threat and take action to protect what they have. Mitigating threats in tough markets is prudent, but companies that adopt a defensive position ignore a counter-intuitive truth: the worst of times for an economy as a whole can be the best of times for individual companies to create value.

Over the past decade I have studied dozens of companies that created value in some of the world's most challenging countries, such as Brazil and China; in some of the toughest industries, including airlines and steel; and amid currency crises and recessions. In setting their agenda for hard times, business leaders would do well to follow their lead.

The golden opportunity

There are occasions when a company can create value significantly in excess of the cost of the resources required to seize an opportunity, whether by acquisition, innovative product launches, expanding in new markets or buying resources.

Golden opportunities do not come along every day, and most people think they are more likely to arise when the good times are rolling. In fact, the moment when you can transform your fortunes often emerges during the toughest times.

Turbulence creates a buyers' market for acquisitions. Ted Arison bought Carnival Cruise Lines in 1974, in the depths of the recession sparked by the first oil shock, while Lakshmi Mittal made his first big acquisition during a downturn in the steel industry. Sometimes companies can acquire customers more easily in tough times, as ING Direct did by picking up the deposits of two Icelandic banks.

Companies can also use difficult trading conditions to drive a hard bargain on tangible assets. Emirates purchased Airbus A380s on favourable terms one month after the September 11 attacks, at a time when many airlines were reluctant or unable to make large commitments.

Executives can exploit uncertainty to extend their position in growing markets. During the early 1990s, the volatility of former Soviet markets frightened many multinationals, which made small bets or none at all. Mars, in contrast, sold its Mars and Snickers bars through a network of small distributors, advertised aggressively and built the largest foreign-owned factory at the time.

It quickly rose to be a leader in the Russian market in chocolate and pet food. When other multinationals panicked and pulled out of the country during the rouble crisis of 1998, Mars held its nerve.

To spot such opportunities, leaders should ask: what opportunities does the current turmoil create? What could we do today that positions us well for tomorrow? Should we double down in growth markets rather than retrenching to our core?

Accelerate change

In periods of relative stability, business leaders attempt fundamental improvements to the organisation by, for example, shifting from selling products to solutions, fostering collaboration across silos or cultivating a more entrepreneurial culture.

Such changes are hard to make at the best of times. In a downturn managers may despair that conditions will derail any progress they have made. Yet difficult conditions also open a window of opportunity.

A crisis marks a clean break with the past and creates an external rationale to make unpopular but necessary changes. In a downturn, investors and boards are more forgiving of short-term earnings dips that might result from actions to improve the organisation in the long term.

Kun-Hee Lee, Samsung's chairman, for example, welcomed the currency crisis that roiled Asian markets in the late 1990s. A decade earlier, Mr Lee had initiated a set of changes to transform Samsung from a competent Korean player to a global leader. By the mid-1990s early wins had sapped the drive to make hard changes. Mr Lee harnessed the energy unleashed by the external crisis to reinvigorate the internal changes.

Questions to ponder: what changes would I want to make even if this crisis had never occurred? How can I harness the crisis to pull those changes forward?

Instil cost discipline

Many companies alternate between growth binges and periods of sober cost cutting. The better approach is to maintain cost discipline throughout the economic cycle.

Starting with a single ship, Carnival Cruise Lines survived the recessions of the 1970s by focusing on efficiency. In contrast to competitors, Carnival maintained this discipline, earning a 5-10 per cent advantage in operating costs as a percentage of revenues over the following decades. Cumulatively, these cost savings provided a war chest to acquire rivals, build new ships and overtake Royal Caribbean as the undisputed industry leader.

In many companies, budgets begin with last year's expenditures as a baseline; costs then rise incrementally. Facing a deep recession in Brazil, retailer Lojas Americanas introduced zero-based budgeting to "reset the clock" each year. The measure required managers to develop their budget from scratch and justify each budget item anew. When considering cost cuts, managers should ask themselves how the process will help to maintain cost discipline in the future.

The worst of times can be the best of times to create value for leaders alert enough to spot opportunities and courageous enough to seize them.

The author is a professor of management practice and faculty director of executive education at London Business School

Credit: By Donald Sull

Company / organization: Name: Carnival Corp; Ticker: CCL; NAICS: 483112, 483111

Publication title: FT.com; London

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 30, 2008

Publisher: The Financial Times Limited

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 229212101

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/229212101?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright Financial Times Ltd. 2008. All rights reserved.)

Last updated: 2017-11-08

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 290 of 313

LSO HEADS THE SHOW International festival tickets on sale Monday

Author: Staff Report11 Staff Report

Publication info: Daytona Beach News - Journal, The ; Daytona Beach, Fla. [Daytona Beach, Fla]30 Nov 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Tickets to each concert are $26, $38, $45 and $62. Each classical concert will be at Peabody Auditorium, 600 Auditorium Blvd., Daytona Beach.*Classical I, 8 p.m. April 24. Conductor Daniel Harding will lead the LSO in Antonin Dvorak's "Carnival Overture," Edvard Grieg's Piano Concerto in A minor, and Johannes Brahms' Symphony No. 1 in C minor. Simon Trpceski will join Harding and the LSO as the soloist in the Grieg concerto.*Classical II, 4 p.m. April 26. Harding plus Gareth Davies, LSO principal flutist, and Bryn Lewis, LSO principal harpist, will perform Mozart's Concerto for Harp, Flute and Orchestra in C major. Also on the program: Mahler's Symphony No. 1 in D major, "The Titan."*Classical III, 8 p.m. April 30. Composer-conductor-pianist Lalo Schifrin, known for his theme for "Mission: Impossible" and other films and television shows, will lead the LSO in presenting "Schifrin's Latin American Jazz, Movie Music and More."

The concert also will feature Aaron Copland's "El Salon Mexico," Cole Porter's "Begin the Beguine" and Moises Simon's "The Peanut Vendor."*Classical IV, 8 p.m. May 1. Kristjan Jarvi will conduct the LSO in a Latin American-themed performance including "Dances from Estancia Ballet" by Alberto Ginastera, "Aconcagua" by Astor Piazzolla and "La Noche de los Mayas" by Silvestre Revueltas.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

*A story on page 6F in Sunday's My Week section incorrectly listed ticket prices for the Daytona Beach International Festival. The listed prices reflect the 15 percent discount that is available only through January.

The London Symphony Orchestra, jazz trumpeter Chris Botti, bluegrass legend Ralph Stanley, puppets, a magician and other artists will perform this spring as part of the Daytona Beach International Festival.

The festival will be presented April 16 through May 2 at venues throughout Daytona Beach and East Central Florida.

Single tickets go on sale Monday and are available at DBIF 365 Live, 212 S. Beach St., Daytona Beach; by calling the box office at 386-257-7790; or online at dbif.com. Tickets will be discounted 15 percent through January.

Here's the festival schedule of ticketed events (ticket prices do not reflect the 15 percent discount). The festival also will include free events, as well as other ticketed events to be announced.

LSO CLASSICAL SERIES

Tickets to each concert are $26, $38, $45 and $62. Each classical concert will be at Peabody Auditorium, 600 Auditorium Blvd., Daytona Beach.*Classical I, 8 p.m. April 24. Conductor Daniel Harding will lead the LSO in Antonin Dvorak's "Carnival Overture," Edvard Grieg's Piano Concerto in A minor, and Johannes Brahms' Symphony No. 1 in C minor. Simon Trpceski will join Harding and the LSO as the soloist in the Grieg concerto.*Classical II, 4 p.m. April 26. Harding plus Gareth Davies, LSO principal flutist, and Bryn Lewis, LSO principal harpist, will perform Mozart's Concerto for Harp, Flute and Orchestra in C major. Also on the program: Mahler's Symphony No. 1 in D major, "The Titan."*Classical III, 8 p.m. April 30. Composer-conductor-pianist Lalo Schifrin, known for his theme for "Mission: Impossible" and other films and television shows, will lead the LSO in presenting "Schifrin's Latin American Jazz, Movie Music and More."

The concert also will feature Aaron Copland's "El Salon Mexico," Cole Porter's "Begin the Beguine" and Moises Simon's "The Peanut Vendor."*Classical IV, 8 p.m. May 1. Kristjan Jarvi will conduct the LSO in a Latin American-themed performance including "Dances from Estancia Ballet" by Alberto Ginastera, "Aconcagua" by Astor Piazzolla and "La Noche de los Mayas" by Silvestre Revueltas.

Tango dancer and accordion player Carel Kraayenhof also will perform.*Classical V, 8 p.m. May 2. Conductor Daniel Harding leads a program including Igor Stravinsky's "Firebird Suite" and Carl Orff's "Carmina Burana," the latter with the Winter Park Bach Festival Choir.

LSO POPS: 'CELEBRATION OF SPEED'*7:30 p.m. April 25, Ocean Center, 101 N. Atlantic Ave., Daytona Beach. $27, $36 and $46. Conductor Xian Zhang leads the LSO in a concert that combines music and multimedia effects in a tribute to speed.

JAZZ *Chris Botti, 8 p.m. April 16, Peabody Auditorium. $31, $36, $41 and $45.*Yellowjackets with Mike Stern, 8 p.m. April 17, News-Journal Center, 221 N. Beach St., Daytona Beach. $32 and $36.*Chuck Mangione, 8 p.m. April 18, News-Journal Center. $39 and $45.*Chuchito Valdes Jazz Trio, 7 p.m. May 1, Athens Theatre, 124 N. Florida Ave., DeLand. $23.

WORLD STAGE*Celtic Crossroads (Irish/Celtic band), 4 and 7 p.m. April 17-18, 4 p.m. April 19, News-Journal Center. $26.*Tiempo Libre (Latin band), 8 p.m. April 23, Athens Theatre, DeLand. $17.*Ballet Hispanico (Latin dance troupe), 8 p.m. April 28-29, News-Journal Center. $28 and $34.*Bluegrass Festival with the Lovell Sisters, Ralph Stanley and Cherryholmes, 7 p.m. May 1, Destination Daytona, 1637 N. U.S. 1, Ormond Beach. $17.

FAMILY SERIES *Mike Super (magician and illusionist), 6 p.m. April 19, Mary McLeod Bethune Performing Arts Center, 698 W. International Speedway Blvd., Daytona Beach. $21, $26, $30 and $33.*"Hansel & Gretel" (puppet theatrical production by Theatre Sans Fil), 2 p.m. April 25-26, News-Journal Center, $17 adults, $9 children.

FESTIVAL LATE NIGHT SERIES*"Salsa Under the Stars" with Tiempo Libre, 10 p.m. April 24, Shores Resort & Spa pool deck, 2637 S. Atlantic Ave., Daytona Beach Shores. $17.*Chuchito Valdes Jazz Trio, 10 p.m. April 30-May 2, Bank & Blues Club, 701 Main St. Daytona Beach. $23.*PROJECT (jazz/hip-hop/world music fusion), 10 p.m. April 23 and 25, Bank & Blues Club. $17.

TIPPEN DAVIDSON CONCERT SERIES*"Music From the British Isles" (LSO chamber concert featuring folk songs from Wales, England, Ireland and Scotland, plus readings from Shakespeare, Dylan Thomas and other British writers), 7 p.m. April 23, News-Journal Center. $19.*"Mozart's Letters" (LSO chamber concert), 7 p.m. April 28, Athens Theatre. $19. Readings of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's letters plus music by Mozart and his contemporaries.*Brasil Guitar Duo, 4 p.m. April 18, Atlantic Center for the Arts, 1414 Art Center Ave., New Smyrna Beach. $17.*Brasil Guitar Duo, 7 p.m. April 21, Palm Coast United Methodist Church, 5200 Belle Terre Parkway, Palm Coast. $17.

People: Harding, Daniel

Publication title: Daytona Beach News - Journal, The; Daytona Beach, Fla.

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Nov 30, 2008

Publisher: Halifax Media Group

Place of publication: Daytona Beach, Fla.

Country of publication: United States, Daytona Beach, Fla.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 21587353

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 382973798

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/382973798?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008, The News-Journal Corporation)

Last updated: 2017-11-05

Database: US Southeast Newsstream

Document 291 of 313

Tradition Counts More Than Beauty at a Pageant

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Dec 1, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Amid a host of influences, the Taíno tribe occupies a special place in Puerto Rico’s cultural hierarchy.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

JAYUYA, P.R. — The seven girls posed, preened and smiled with all the energy of Miss Universe contestants, but this was no ordinary pageant.

The competitors, from about 6-years-old to 16, had just paraded through a downpour to a small stage surrounded by mountains, where they displayed elaborate outfits handmade from wood, plants or, in one case, jingling shells. And the judges also sought a special kind of beauty: those who most resembled Puerto Rico’s native Indian tribe, the Taíno, received higher marks.

“It’s different,” said Félix González, president of the National Indigenous Festival of Jayuya, of which the pageant is a part. “It’s not white culture and blue eyes; it says that the part of our blood that comes from indigenous culture is just as important.”

Puerto Ricans have long considered themselves a mix of African, European and Native American influences. But since the 1960s, the Taíno — a tribe wiped from the Antilles by European conquest, disease and assimilation — has come to occupy a special place in the island’s cultural hierarchy.

The streets of Old San Juan are lined with museums and research centers dedicated to unearthing Taíno artifacts and rituals. Children are taught from a young age that “hurricane” is Taíno in origin, from the word “huracán,” while no Latin pop music concert is complete without a shout out to Boricuas — those from Borinquen, the Taíno name for Puerto Rico, which means “land of the brave noble lord.”

The ties may be more than cultural. In 2003, Juan Martinez Cruzado, a geneticist at the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez, found that at least 61 percent of Puerto Ricans possess remnants of Taíno DNA — and nearly all seem to believe they belong in that group.

“The Indian heritage is very important because it unites the Puerto Rican community,” said Miguel Rodríguez López, an archaeologist with the Center for Advanced Studies of Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, an independent graduate school in San Juan. “There is a feeling that it represents our primary roots.”

He added, “It is our symbolic identity.”

In Jayuya, a town of a few thousand people in the mountains north of Ponce, Taíno celebrations began decades ago. When local leaders discovered in the mid-60s that the town was named for a Taíno chief, they commissioned a sculpture to honor him. It was dedicated in November 1969 at the first indigenous festival, and every year since, the chief’s stern eyes have looked out over the event from a perch above the central plaza.

At times, he has been forced to share space with the more modern forces that decimated his people. One of the city’s major archaeological sites, discovered here two years ago, sits across from a Burger King. And before the pageant began on Saturday night, a performance of traditional Taíno dance competed with a pop song from Maná, Latin America’s biggest rock band.

Mostly though, the Taíno influence in Jayuya seems to have merged with its surroundings. The standard Taíno sun symbol, called a guanin, is now carved into the Spanish-style plaza. Many of the crafts being sold at the festival, like jewelry, purses and soap, also included Taíno symbols.

And even the pageant is a hybrid. Actual Taíno women wore only loincloths. But with the influence of local teenagers, the costumes have become exponentially more extravagant A few years ago, organizers had to limit their size to 8 feet high by 6 feet wide.

Even with those boundaries, which, of course, the teenagers tried to push, the costumes amounted to a mix of homecoming queen, Halloween, “Last of the Mohicans” and Las Vegas showgirl.

Mr. Rodríguez, the archaeologist and a former judge of the pageant, compared it to Brazil’s carnival. “It’s a sincretismo,” he said, using the Spanish word for “syncretism.” “They mix different cultures, different beliefs.”

Some scholars have scoffed at the concept, saying it is more a reflection of the joke that Puerto Ricans love festivals enough to have one for every cause or crustacean. But Mr. Rodríguez defended the idea. “You have to enjoy it because it’s for the people,” he said.

The contestants clearly love it. Natalia Fernandez, 16, said she had spent a month and half building her outfit, which required her to carry on her back a wooden Taíno dancer weighing at least 25 pounds, with a sprout above his head the size of a small coffee table.

Her bangs had been cut, her dark hair was straight (in a nod to what is considered Taíno style) and her naturally copper-colored skin made her appear as Native American as Chief Jayuya. But she was also 100 percent teenager. Asked before the contest how she thought she would do, she fiddled with her cellphone and said, “I’m going to win.”

The event started an hour late, and the rain and competition seemed to surprise Natalia. She frowned under the downpour, looking chilled with a bare midriff and no shoes, as she glanced nervously at the girl with shells and starfish netted in a four-foot-high headdress.

But her fears were unfounded. After all the girls introduced themselves and explained their outfits, the judges called Natalia’s name last, like all great pageant winners. Her friends and family cheered loudly from beneath umbrellas as she smiled and twirled for the digital cameras.

“It’s about a beautiful culture,” she said before taking the stage. “It’s not about just beauty.”

Subject: Culture; Archaeology; Pageants; Native North Americans; Festivals

Location: Puerto Rico Brazil Las Vegas Nevada Latin America

Company / organization: Name: Burger King Corp; NAICS: 533110, 722513

Identifier / keyword: INDIANS, AMERICAN Folk Music Hispanic-Americans Old San Juan Puerto Rico Cave, Damien Burger King Corp Archaeology and Anthropology Puerto Ricans Halloween Martinez, Juan Africa Contests and Prizes Beauty Contests Public Relations and Publicity Tribes and Tribalism Europe Caribbean Area Carnival (Pre-Lenten) San Juan (Puerto Rico) Latin America Hurricanes and Tropical Storms Rock Music Las Vegas (Nev) Cloning Brazil DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid)

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 1, 2008

Section: us

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2220789968

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2220789968?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-07

Database: US Major D ailies

Document 292 of 313

Why the worst of times can also be the best of times

Author: Sull, Donald

Publication info: Financial Times ; London (UK) [London (UK)]01 Dec 2008: 14.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Turbulence creates a buyers' market for acquisitions. Ted Arison bought Carnival Cruise Lines in 1974, in the depths of the recession sparked by the first oil shock, while Lakshmi Mittal made his first big acquisition during a downturn in the steel industry. Sometimes companies can acquire customers more easily in tough times, as ING Direct did by picking up the deposits of two Icelandic banks.

Kun-Hee Lee, Samsung's chairman, for example, welcomed the currency crisis that roiled Asian markets in the late 1990s. A decade earlier, Mr Lee had initiated a set of changes to transform Samsung from a competent Korean player to a global leader. By the mid-1990s early wins had sapped the drive to make hard changes. Mr Lee harnessed the energy unleashed by the external crisis to reinvigorate the internal changes.

In many companies, budgets begin with last year's expenditures as a baseline; costs then rise incrementally. Facing a deep recession in Brazil, retailer Lojas Americanas introduced zero-based budgeting to "reset the clock" each year. The measure required managers to develop their budget from scratch and justify each budget item anew. When considering cost cuts, managers should ask themselves how the process will help to maintain cost discipline in the future.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Donald Sull

The world has changed. After years of benign economic conditions, the four horsemen of financial apocalypse - credit crunch, recession, volatility and uncertainty - are blazing a trail across the horizon.

Executives must now reassess their organisation's agenda and communicate it clearly. If history is a guide, most will frame the current conditions as a threat and take action to protect what they have. Mitigating threats in tough markets is prudent, but companies that adopt a defensive position ignore a counter-intuitive truth: the worst of times for an economy as a whole can be the best of times for individual companies to create value.

Over the past decade I have studied dozens of companies that created value in some of the world's most challenging countries, such as Brazil and China; in some of the toughest industries, including airlines and steel; and amid currency crises and recessions. In setting their agenda for hard times, business leaders would do well to follow their lead.

The golden opportunity

There are occasions when a company can create value significantly in excess of the cost of the resources required to seize an opportunity, whether by acquisition, innovative product launches, expanding in new markets or buying resources.

Golden opportunities do not come along every day, and most people think they are more likely to arise when the good times are rolling. In fact, the moment when you can transform your fortunes often emerges during the toughest times.

Turbulence creates a buyers' market for acquisitions. Ted Arison bought Carnival Cruise Lines in 1974, in the depths of the recession sparked by the first oil shock, while Lakshmi Mittal made his first big acquisition during a downturn in the steel industry. Sometimes companies can acquire customers more easily in tough times, as ING Direct did by picking up the deposits of two Icelandic banks.

Companies can also use difficult trading conditions to drive a hard bargain on tangible assets. Emirates purchased Airbus A380s on favourable terms one month after the September 11 attacks, at a time when many airlines were reluctant or unable to make large commitments.

Executives can exploit uncertainty to extend their position in growing markets. During the early 1990s, the volatility of former Soviet markets frightened many multinationals, which made small bets or none at all. Mars, in contrast, sold its Mars and Snickers bars through a network of small distributors, advertised aggressively and built the largest foreign-owned factory at the time.

It quickly rose to be a leader in the Russian market in chocolate and pet food. When other multinationals panicked and pulled out of the country during the rouble crisis of 1998, Mars held its nerve.

To spot such opportunities, leaders should ask: what opportunities does the current turmoil create? What could we do today that positions us well for tomorrow? Should we double down in growth markets rather than retrenching to our core?

Accelerate change

In periods of relative stability, business leaders attempt fundamental improvements to the organisation by, for example, shifting from selling products to solutions, fostering collaboration across silos or cultivating a more entrepreneurial culture.

Such changes are hard to make at the best of times. In a downturn managers may despair that conditions will derail any progress they have made. Yet difficult conditions also open a window of opportunity.

A crisis marks a clean break with the past and creates an external rationale to make unpopular but necessary changes. In a downturn, investors and boards are more forgiving of short-term earnings dips that might result from actions to improve the organisation in the long term.

Kun-Hee Lee, Samsung's chairman, for example, welcomed the currency crisis that roiled Asian markets in the late 1990s. A decade earlier, Mr Lee had initiated a set of changes to transform Samsung from a competent Korean player to a global leader. By the mid-1990s early wins had sapped the drive to make hard changes. Mr Lee harnessed the energy unleashed by the external crisis to reinvigorate the internal changes.

Questions to ponder: what changes would I want to make even if this crisis had never occurred? How can I harness the crisis to pull those changes forward?

Instil cost discipline

Many companies alternate between growth binges and periods of sober cost cutting. The better approach is to maintain cost discipline throughout the economic cycle.

Starting with a single ship, Carnival Cruise Lines survived the recessions of the 1970s by focusing on efficiency. In contrast to competitors, Carnival maintained this discipline, earning a 5-10 per cent advantage in operating costs as a percentage of revenues over the following decades. Cumulatively, these cost savings provided a war chest to acquire rivals, build new ships and overtake Royal Caribbean as the undisputed industry leader.

In many companies, budgets begin with last year's expenditures as a baseline; costs then rise incrementally. Facing a deep recession in Brazil, retailer Lojas Americanas introduced zero-based budgeting to "reset the clock" each year. The measure required managers to develop their budget from scratch and justify each budget item anew. When considering cost cuts, managers should ask themselves how the process will help to maintain cost discipline in the future.

The worst of times can be the best of times to create value for leaders alert enough to spot opportunities and courageous enough to seize them.

The author is a professor of management practice and faculty director of executive education at London Business School

Lucy Kellaway's column returns next week

Company / organization: Name: Carnival Corp; Ticker: CCL; NAICS: 483112, 483111

Publication title: Financial Times; London (UK)

First page: 14

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 1, 2008

Section: BUSINESS LIFE

Publisher: The Financial Times Limited

Place of publication: London (UK)

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London (UK)

Publication subject: Business And Economics--Banking And Finance, Political Science

ISSN: 03071766

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 250140559

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/250140559?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright Financial Times Ltd. 2008. All rights reserved.)

Last updated: 2017-11-14

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 293 of 313

December 2, 2008 (Page 31 of 32)

Publication info: Asheville Citizen-Times (1991-2011) ; Asheville, North Carolina [Asheville, North Carolina]02 Dec 2008: 31.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Asheville Citizen-Times (1991-2011); Asheville, North Carolina

Volume: 139

Issue: 337

First page: 31

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 2, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Asheville, North Carolina

Country of publication: United States, Asheville, North Carolina

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 1060-3255

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: Engl ish

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2125874440

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2125874440?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Dec 2, 2008

Last updated: 2018-10-27

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 294 of 313

Puerto Rico pageant celebrates a vanished native culture

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Dec 2, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

JAYUYA, Puerto Rico — The seven girls posed, preened and smiled with all the energy of Miss Universe contestants, but this was no ordinary pageant.

The competitors, from about 6 years old to 16, had just paraded through a downpour to a small stage surrounded by mountains, where they displayed elaborate outfits handmade from wood, plants or, in one case, jingling shells. And the judges also sought a special kind of beauty: those who most resembled Puerto Rico's native Indian tribe, the Taino, received higher marks.

"It's different," said Felix González, president of the National Indigenous Festival of Jayuya, of which the pageant is a part. "It's not white culture and blue eyes; it says that the part of our blood that comes from indigenous culture is just as important."

Puerto Ricans have long considered themselves a mix of African, European and Native American influences. But since the 1960s, the Taino - a tribe wiped from the Antilles by European conquest, disease and assimilation - has come to occupy a special place in the island's cultural hierarchy.

The streets of Old San Juan are lined with museums and research centers dedicated to unearthing Taino artifacts and rituals. Children are taught from a young age that "hurricane" is Taino in origin, from the word "huracan," while no Latin pop music concert is complete without a shout out to Boricuas - those from Borinquen, the Taino name for Puerto Rico, which means "land of the brave noble lord."

The ties may be more than cultural. In 2003, Juan Martínez Cruzado, a geneticist at the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez, found that at least 61 percent of Puerto Ricans possess remnants of Taino DNA - and nearly all seem to believe they belong in that group.

"The Indian heritage is very important because it unites the Puerto Rican community," said Miguel Rodríguez López, an archaeologist with the Center for Advanced Studies of Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, an independent graduate school in San Juan. "There is a feeling that it represents our primary roots." He added, "It is our symbolic identity."

In Jayuya, a town of a few thousand people in the mountains north of Ponce, Taino celebrations began decades ago. When local leaders discovered in the mid-1960s that the town was named for a Taino chief, they commissioned a sculpture to honor him. It was dedicated in November 1969 at the first indigenous festival, and every year since, the chief's stern eyes have looked out over the event from a perch above the central plaza.

At times, he has been forced to share space with the more modern forces that decimated his people. One of the city's major archaeological sites, discovered here two years ago, sits across from a Burger King. And before the pageant began Saturday night, a performance of traditional Taino dance competed with a pop song from Mana, Latin America's biggest rock band.

Mostly, though, the Taino influence in Jayuya seems to have merged with its surroundings. The standard Taino sun symbol, called a guanín, is now carved into the Spanish-style plaza. Many of the crafts being sold at the festival, like jewelry, purses and soap, also included Taino symbols.

And even the pageant is a hybrid. Actual Taino women wore only loincloths. But with the influence of local teenagers, the costumes have become exponentially more extravagant. A few years ago, organizers had to limit their size.

Even with those boundaries, which, of course, the teenagers tried to push, the costumes amounted to a mix of homecoming queen, Halloween, "Last of the Mohicans" and Las Vegas showgirl.

Rodríguez, the archaeologist and a former judge of the pageant, compared it to Brazil's carnival. "It's a sincretismo," he said. "They mix different cultures, different beliefs."

Some scholars have scoffed at the concept, saying it is more a reflection of the joke that Puerto Ricans love festivals enough to have one for every cause or crustacean. But Rodríguez defended the idea. "You have to enjoy it because it's for the people," he said.

The contestants clearly love it. Natalia Fernández, 16, said she had spent a month and half building her outfit, which required her to carry on her back a wooden Taino dancer weighing at least 25 pounds, or 11 kilograms, with a sprout above his head the size of a small coffee table.

Her bangs had been cut, her dark hair was straight (in a nod to what is considered Taino style) and her naturally copper-colored skin made her appear as Native American as Chief Jayuya. But she was also 100 percent teenager. Asked before the contest how she thought she would do, she fiddled with her cellphone and said, "I'm going to win."

The event started an hour late, and the rain and competition seemed to surprise Natalia. She frowned under the downpour, looking chilled with a bare midriff and no shoes, as she glanced nervously at the girl with shells and starfish netted in a high headdress.

But her fears were unfounded. After all the girls introduced themselves and explained their outfits, the judges called Natalia's name last, like all great pageant winners. Her friends and family cheered loudly from beneath umbrellas as she smiled and twirled for the digital cameras.

"It's about a beautiful culture," she said before taking the stage. "It's not about just beauty."

Subject: Culture; Archaeology; Pageants; Native North Americans; Festivals

Location: Puerto Rico Brazil Las Vegas Nevada Latin America

Company / organization: Name: Burger King Corp; NAICS: 533110, 722513

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 2, 2008

Section: world

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2220889952

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2220889952?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-07

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 295 of 313

Brazil Shipping Report - Dec 2

Publication info: Dow Jones Institutional News ; New York [New York]02 Dec 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Report released December 1, 2008
PARANAGUA
SOCEPPAR - 37 FT BW
VESSELETAETBETSSTAT QTITY CARGOCHARTERER DEST
RENOS22.11 28.1102.12 LDNG 32000 SPBUNGERUMANIA
SAILED
VESSELATASTAYATSSTAT QTITY CARGOCHARTERER DEST
GEORGEOS S07.11 10 DAYS 17.11 SLD48000 SUGCARGILLRUSSIA
BUNGE/CEVAL - 33 FT BW
VESSELETAETBETSSTAT QTITY CARGOCHARTERER DEST
NIHIL
SAILED
VESSELATASTAYATSSTAT QTITY CARGOCHARTERER DEST
FAREAST SUNNY08.11 06 DAYS 14.11 SLD20000 MZCM PTEINDONESIA
CORRIDOR - SHED 212 37'01"/ SHED 213-214 37'01"
VESSELETAETBETSBTD STAT QTITY CARGO CHARTERER DEST
SANTA THERESA25.11 01.1203.12LDNG 46700 SPCOAMOC/P
SANTA ELENA26.11 01.1204.12LDNG 43500 SPDREYFUSC/P
NAVIOS ASTERIKS 26.11 02.1203.12LDNG 52000 MZDREYFUSC/P
PACIFIC HOPE29.11 03.1204.12WTNG 25000 MZTOYOTAC/P
EIREN05.1252000 SBBUNGEITALY
FU KANG05.1245000 MZDREYFUSC/P
PANOS06.1252000 SBBUNGEC/P
MAKIKI10.1220000 SPDREYFUSC/P
MEDI ROTTERDAM12.1245000 MZDREYFUSS.KOREA
ANNA ELIZABETH13.1245000 MZADMC/P
TOTALS PROGRAMMED110200 SP
104000 SB
212000 MZ
SAILED
VESSELATASTAYATSSTAT QTITY CARGO CHARTERER DEST
FAIR WIND12.11 08 DAYS 20.11SLD43996 MZDREYFUSC/P
GEORGI GRIGOROV 17.11 07 DAYS 24.11SLD13971 HPCOAMOGERMANY
18012 SPCOAMOGERMANY
SANKO TITAN18.11 09 DAYS 27.11SLD44775 SMINTERTRADE FRANCE
VITAGLORY18.11 10 DAYS 28.11SLD54137 SBBUNGESPAIN
OLYMPIC MENTOR22.11 08 DAYS 28.11SLD25504 MZCARGILLMOROCCO
ROSELLA23.11 09 DAYS 01.12SLD28490 MZCARGILLMALAISYA
PATRIARC22.11 08 DAYS 01.12SLD31500 MZCARGILLALGERIA
OIL
VESSELETAETBETSSTAT QTITY CARGO CHARTERER DEST
AIGRAN D14.11 30.1102.12LDNG 5150SBOIL DREYFUSCUBA
STOLT FALCON(IMP)03.122018PKOEQUATORIAL FEAST
2000 PALMOIL EQUATORIAL FEAST
SERAM WIND06.128000 SBREF FR.WARING S.AFRICA
1200CTOIL FR.WARING S.AFRICA
SAILED
VESSELATASTAYATSSTAT QTITY CARGO CHARTERER DEST
BOTANY TROUBADOUR19.11 05 DAYS 24.11 SLD260 SBREF OILSEEDS AUSTRALIA
750 SBREF G.SMITHAUSTRALIA
1180 SBREF G.FIELDER NEW ZEALAND
250 SBREF G.FIELDER AUSTRALIA
1080 COTOIL G.FIELDER AUSTRALIA
BOW HARMONY21.11 04 DAYS 25.11 SLD5000 SBREF DREYFUSFRANCE
CHEMSTAR PRINCESS19.11 08 DAYS 27.11 SLD 17500 MOLASSES SAVANNAHFOOD U.S.A.
IMPORTANT NOTE: DREDGING AT INNER PIER COMMENCED B4 THE CARNIVAL PERIOD
STARTED, IE, WEEK 05 ANS AGW, IS EXPECTED TO FINISHED BY DECEMBER 2008.
AFTER DREDGING COMPLETED CATTALINI MANAGEMENT DO EXPECT TO HAVE MAX
DRAFT AT THE INNER-PIER CONFIRMED FOR 34'00" FT BW.
FACILITYSPSBMZHP NON GMO WHSU BARLEY
CORRIDOR239375 85458147900UNDISCLOSED
SOCCEPARUNDISCLOSED
BUNGEUNDISCLOSED
PASA130000
CARGOES ARRIVED LAST 24 HOURS:
UNAVAILABLE.
OIL TERMINALSSBOIL SBREF RAPE MZOIL CTOIL S.OIL
CATTALINI29071 105511621 1778
VOPAK3910 7827318
DELAYS
TERMINALDELAY
SOCCEPARNIHIL
BUNGENIHIL
CORRIDORMAINTENANCE SHED 212
CORRIDOR02/03 DAYSSHED 213
CORRIDOR02/03 DAYSSHED 214
MAINTENANCE AT EXPORT CORRIDOR BERTHS
212 : COME BACK TO WORKED ON DEC 01ST.
213 : FROM DECEMBER 05TH 2008 AND TILL JANUARY 04TH 2009.
214 : FROM JANUARY 05TH 2009 AND TILL JANUARY 31ST 2009.
CENTRAL PANNEL : FROM JANUARY 12TH 2009 AND TILL JANUARY 14TH 2009.
OBS.: THE PERIOD INDICATED ABOVE WHEN CENTRAL PANNEL IS UNDER
MAINTENANCE NO VESSELS ARE ALLOWED TO BERTH.
WEATHER: OVERCAST
JAN-OCT 2007JAN-OCT 2008
VITORIA (TUBARAO)2,355.5142,150.709
RIO GRANDE4,954,9893,238,639
ILHEUS91.71152.972
PONTA DA MADEIRA1,316.0391,522.387
ITACOATIARA1,324.5311,288.647
PARANAGUA4,295.0603,940.577
SANTOS4,465.3366,835.711
SANTAREM771.510874.754
S.FRANCISCO SUL2,383.2302,171.253
ARATU318.225681.923
TOTAL22,276.14522,757.572
SAO FRANCISCO
GRAINS - MAX DRAFT 12,00 METERS BW
VESSELETAETBETSSTAT QTITYCARGO CHARTERER DEST
GOLDEN ELPIS24.11 29.1101.12 LDNG 33000MZBUNGECOLOMBIA
ANTIGONIA B27.11 02.1203.12 WTNG 19800MZGLENCOREMOROCCO
TARANG06.12 06.1208.1216300HPDREYFUSITALY
PACIFIC PIONEER 08.12 08.1210.1233450MZTRANSGRAIN KUWAIT

(MORE TO FOLLOW)

December 02, 2008 17:06 ET (22:06 GMT)

Location: Brazil

Publication title: Dow Jones Institutional News; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 2, 2008

Publisher: Dow Jones & Company Inc

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2248812071

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2248812071?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Dow Jones & Company Inc Dec 2, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 296 of 313

Tradition Counts More Than Beauty At a Pageant: [National Desk]

Author: Cave, Damien

Publication info: New York Times , Late Edition (East Coast); New York, N.Y. [New York, N.Y]02 Dec 2008: A.19.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

The seven girls posed, preened and smiled with all the energy of Miss Universe contestants, but this was no ordinary pageant. Children are taught from a young age that "hurricane" is Taino in origin, from the word "huracan," while no Latin pop music concert is complete without a shout out to Boricuas -- those from Borinquen, the Taino name for Puerto Rico, which means "land of the brave noble lord."

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

The seven girls posed, preened and smiled with all the energy of Miss Universe contestants, but this was no ordinary pageant.

The competitors, from about 6-years-old to 16, had just paraded through a downpour to a small stage surrounded by mountains, where they displayed elaborate outfits handmade from wood, plants or, in one case, jingling shells. And the judges also sought a special kind of beauty: those who most resembled Puerto Rico's native Indian tribe, the Taino, received higher marks.

"It's different," said Felix Gonzalez, president of the National Indigenous Festival of Jayuya, of which the pageant is a part. "It's not white culture and blue eyes; it says that the part of our blood that comes from indigenous culture is just as important."

Puerto Ricans have long considered themselves a mix of African, European and Native American influences. But since the 1960s, the Taino -- a tribe wiped from the Antilles by European conquest, disease and assimilation -- has come to occupy a special place in the island's cultural hierarchy.

The streets of Old San Juan are lined with museums and research centers dedicated to unearthing Taino artifacts and rituals. Children are taught from a young age that "hurricane" is Taino in origin, from the word "huracan," while no Latin pop music concert is complete without a shout out to Boricuas -- those from Borinquen, the Taino name for Puerto Rico, which means "land of the brave noble lord."

The ties may be more than cultural. In 2003, Juan Martinez Cruzado, a geneticist at the University of Puerto Rico at Mayaguez, found that at least 61 percent of Puerto Ricans possess remnants of Taino DNA -- and nearly all seem to believe they belong in that group.

"The Indian heritage is very important because it unites the Puerto Rican community," said Miguel Rodriguez Lopez, an archaeologist with the Center for Advanced Studies of Puerto Rico and the Caribbean, an independent graduate school in San Juan. "There is a feeling that it represents our primary roots."

He added, "It is our symbolic identity."

In Jayuya, a town of a few thousand people in the mountains north of Ponce, Taino celebrations began decades ago. When local leaders discovered in the mid-60s that the town was named for a Taino chief, they commissioned a sculpture to honor him. It was dedicated in November 1969 at the first indigenous festival, and every year since, the chief's stern eyes have looked out over the event from a perch above the central plaza.

At times, he has been forced to share space with the more modern forces that decimated his people. One of the city's major archaeological sites, discovered here two years ago, sits across from a Burger King. And before the pageant began on Saturday night, a performance of traditional Taino dance competed with a pop song from Mana, Latin America's biggest rock band.

Mostly though, the Taino influence in Jayuya seems to have merged with its surroundings. The standard Taino sun symbol, called a guanin, is now carved into the Spanish-style plaza. Many of the crafts being sold at the festival, like jewelry, purses and soap, also included Taino symbols.

And even the pageant is a hybrid. Actual Taino women wore only loincloths. But with the influence of local teenagers, the costumes have become exponentially more extravagant A few years ago, organizers had to limit their size to 8 feet high by 6 feet wide.

Even with those boundaries, which, of course, the teenagers tried to push, the costumes amounted to a mix of homecoming queen, Halloween, "Last of the Mohicans" and Las Vegas showgirl.

Mr. Rodriguez, the archaeologist and a former judge of the pageant, compared it to Brazil's carnival. "It's a sincretismo," he said, using the Spanish word for "syncretism." "They mix different cultures, different beliefs."

Some scholars have scoffed at the concept, saying it is more a reflection of the joke that Puerto Ricans love festivals enough to have one for every cause or crustacean. But Mr. Rodriguez defended the idea. "You have to enjoy it because it's for the people," he said.

The contestants clearly love it. Natalia Fernandez, 16, said she had spent a month and half building her outfit, which required her to carry on her back a wooden Taino dancer weighing at least 25 pounds, with a sprout above his head the size of a small coffee table.

Her bangs had been cut, her dark hair was straight (in a nod to what is considered Taino style) and her naturally copper-colored skin made her appear as Native American as Chief Jayuya. But she was also 100 percent teenager. Asked before the contest how she thought she would do, she fiddled with her cellphone and said, "I'm going to win."

The event started an hour late, and the rain and competition seemed to surprise Natalia. She frowned under the downpour, looking chilled with a bare midriff and no shoes, as she glanced nervously at the girl with shells and starfish netted in a four-foot-high headdress.

But her fears were unfounded. After all the girls introduced themselves and explained their outfits, the judges called Natalia's name last, like all great pageant winners. Her friends and family cheered loudly from beneath umbrellas as she smiled and twirled for the digital cameras.

"It's about a beautiful culture," she said before taking the stage. "It's not about just beauty."

Photograph

Students Practicing a Folk Dance at a Cultural Center in Jayuya, P.R., Where the National Indigenous Festival has Been Held Every November Since 1969. (Photograph by Lianne Milton for the New York Times); Natalia Fernandez's Costume Weighed at Least 25 Pounds. (Photograph by Damien Cave/the New York Times)

Subject: Musical performances; Competition; Beauty contests; Festivals; Pageants

Location: Jayuya Puerto Rico

Publication title: New York Times, Late Edition (East Coast); New York, N.Y.

Pages: A.19

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 2, 2008

Dateline: JAYUYA, P.R.

Section: A

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York, N.Y.

Country of publication: United States, New York, N.Y.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 03624331

CODEN: NYTIAO

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 434001324

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/434001324?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright New York Times Company Dec 2, 2008

Last updated: 2017-11-15

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 297 of 313

CARIBBEAN: Tourism faces uncertain outlook

Publication info: OxResearch Daily Brief Service ; Oxford [Oxford]03 Dec 2008: n/a.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Prospects for the tourist industry.

The region's main economic activity has already been badly hit by the world financial turmoil.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

SUBJECT:Prospects for the tourist industry.

SIGNIFICANCE:The region's main economic activity has already been badly hit by the world financial turmoil.

ANALYSIS: Tourism has inevitably been one of the casualties of the world economic downturn: the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) reported this month that international tourist arrival numbers were lower during the northern summer, with growth slipping below 2.0% in June, July and August, after averaging 5.7% growth between January and April. The UNWTO expects an "even more modest performance" in 2009, as the recession unfolds and many consumers cut back on their travel budgets. The overall growth in arrivals of about 2% in 2008 could turn negative next year. Those tourists who do travel will probably go for shorter periods, to cheaper destinations and staying closer to home.

Upmarket strategy threatened All this is bad news for the Caribbean, which has been following an upmarket strategy in recent years (see BRAZIL: Amazon pressures decimate native forests - December 17, 2007), and also targeting long-haul tourists from Europe and, increasingly, the Far East. The regional banks, which met to discuss the crisis in Barbados on 17 November, are deeply committed to the tourism sector, and they are seriously concerned -- tourism is the most important economic activity in the Caribbean, and the main foreign exchange earner. Even without the impact of a global financial crisis, it has been badly hit this year by one of the severest Atlantic hurricane seasons in living memory.

Winners and losers There have already been casualties:

Chronically troubled Air Jamaica has dropped its London-Kingston service and faces an uncertain future.

The biggest casualty so far was UK-based XL holiday and airline group, which went into administration in September, hit by higher fuel and other costs. Saint Lucia, Barbados, Tobago, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Grenada were all hit hard by the XL collapse.

There will be more cuts to come:

US air capacity to the Caribbean will be down by as much as 11% this winter, as airlines cut their services or go out of business.

European travel companies are also reducing capacity for next year: Tui Travel and Thomas Cook have already announced cuts for next summer of 15% and 7%, respectively.

However, Air Canada, which has been cutting capacity across its network during this autumn, has decided to increase the number of seats to the Caribbean during the winter to 34,000 a week; while low-cost carrier WestJet launched a four-times-a-week service between Toronto and Barbados in early November. In addition, British Airways is launching a first-ever weekly scheduled service between Gatwick and Saint Kitts in January, which the islands' government has hailed as a boost to its high-end tourism strategy.

Cap Cana crisis However, in general, the region's bid to establish itself as an upmarket destination is likely to be one of the biggest short-term victims of the economic downturn. The Dominican Republic's efforts to attract golf tourists have been given a sharp jolt by the collapse of Lehman Brothers in September, which forced the ambitious 12,000-hectare Cap Cana development on the eastern tip of the island, which will eventually have three Jack Nicklaus signature golf courses, to suspend construction work and lay off nearly 500 workers.

The complex, which will take up to 15 years to complete, and has partnership agreements with Ritz-Carlton and Donald Trump, is experiencing serious financial difficulties. At the end of October Fitch Ratings downgraded Cap Cana's 250 million dollar senior secured notes, due in 2013, following what it described as a "significant deterioration in market conditions". The agency noted that the inability to access capital markets, together with a significant decrease in property sales, had created a lack of liquidity for the project, which was expected severely to constrain its ability to continue normal operations.

Another resort hit by the Lehman Brothers collapse is the Ritz-Carlton Molasses Reef project in the Turks and Caicos Islands, which includes a 125-room hotel, marina and condominiums on West Caicos. Work was temporarily paralysed in October, just before completion, when Israeli construction company Ashtrom was unable to pay its 60 Chinese labourers their wages.

Bahamas blow The Bahamas have also been hit. By September some 6,000 hotel employees were working a three-day week or less as US visitor numbers -- which account for more than 80% of tourist arrivals in the Bahamas -- dwindled. Since then Kerzner International's giant Atlantis resort on Paradise Island, which is the country's largest private employer, has laid off about 800 employees, or 10% of the workforce, blaming low occupancy rates. Atlantis only completed a 1 billion dollar expansion last year, which took its number of rooms to nearly 3,000.

On November 10, Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham warned Bahamians to brace themselves for more job losses, as many of the country's hotels and resorts were experiencing their lowest occupancy levels in many years. He said he expected unemployment to increase from the current 8.7% to double digits next year, and announced a programme of public works to limit the impact.

Cruise complications Cruise passenger arrivals -- another recent growth sector for the Caribbean -- have also fallen steeply in some countries this year:

they were down 8.7% in Antigua, 6.5% in the Bahamas and 31.8% in Saint Vincent in the first seven months of the year, compared with the same period in 2007;

down 17.9% year-on-year in Bermuda in the first eight months; and

down 11.7% in the Cayman Islands in the first nine months.

The downturn has not been across the board: cruise passenger arrivals were up 15.4% year-on-year to Barbados through June, up 37.6% to the Dominican Republic (which plans a new cruise ship terminal) through August, and up 21.4% to Aruba through September. However, the general trend is downwards: both Carnival and Royal Caribbean, the two biggest cruise companies, report reduced bookings for the first half of 2009.

Rays of hope Nevertheless, there have been some surprising trends in the tourist industry from which the Caribbean can derive some comfort:

Lastminute.com saw a 10% year-on-year increase in the second week of September in people booking their next holiday from the United Kingdom.

There has reportedly been a steep decline in lower-cost holidays but a rise in those costing 800 pounds (1,185 dollars) or more, especially to the Caribbean.

Some countries are tackling the downturn by seeking to diversify the tourism products they are offering:

For example, Grenada plans to focus more on niche markets, such as diving, weddings and honeymoons, yachting and fishing.

Others, including Antigua and Trinidad and Tobago, are hoping to develop sports tourism, cashing in on the achievements of their cricketers and athletes (see CARIBBEAN: Uncertainies cloud economic, unity outlook - January 8, 2007).

CONCLUSION: Although not all sectors of the Caribbean tourist industry have been affected so far, and longer-term prospects are encouraging, the situation is likely to get worse over the coming year, as credit remains in short supply and consumers reduce spending.

Subject: Economic conditions; Airlines; Economic growth; Leisure; Tourism

Location: Latin America Caribbean area Antigua & Barbuda Aruba Bahamas Barbados Bermuda Cayman Islands Dominican Republic Grenada Jamaica St Kitts Nevis Saint Lucia St Vincent Trinidad & Tobago Turks & Caicos

Classification: 9173: Latin America; 8350: Transportation & travel industry; 1110: Economic conditions & forecasts

Identifier / keyword: Latin America Caribbean area Antigua & Barbuda Aruba Bahamas Barbados Bermuda Cayman Islands Dominican Republic Grenada Jamaica St Kitts Nevis Saint Lucia St Vincent Trinidad & Tobago Turks & Caicos Economic conditions Industry Airlines Consumer Economic growth Leisure Tourism

Publication title: OxResearch Daily Brief Service; Oxford

Pages: n/a

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 03, 2008

Publisher: Oxford Analytica Ltd

Place of publication: Oxford

Country of publication: United Kingdom, Oxford

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 192340565

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/192340565?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Oxford Analytica Ltd. 2008. No publication or distribution is permitted without the express consent of Oxford Analytica.

Last updated: 2016-08-27

Database: Business Market Research Collection

Document 298 of 313

CARIBBEAN: Tourism faces uncertain outlook

Publication info: Oxford Analytica Daily Brief Service 03 Dec 2008: n/a.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Prospects for the tourist industry.

The region's main economic activity has already been badly hit by the world financial turmoil.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

SUBJECT:Prospects for the tourist industry.

SIGNIFICANCE:The region's main economic activity has already been badly hit by the world financial turmoil.

ANALYSIS: Tourism has inevitably been one of the casualties of the world economic downturn: the UN World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO) reported this month that international tourist arrival numbers were lower during the northern summer, with growth slipping below 2.0% in June, July and August, after averaging 5.7% growth between January and April. The UNWTO expects an "even more modest performance" in 2009, as the recession unfolds and many consumers cut back on their travel budgets. The overall growth in arrivals of about 2% in 2008 could turn negative next year. Those tourists who do travel will probably go for shorter periods, to cheaper destinations and staying closer to home.

Upmarket strategy threatened All this is bad news for the Caribbean, which has been following an upmarket strategy in recent years (see BRAZIL: Amazon pressures decimate native forests - December 17, 2007), and also targeting long-haul tourists from Europe and, increasingly, the Far East. The regional banks, which met to discuss the crisis in Barbados on 17 November, are deeply committed to the tourism sector, and they are seriously concerned -- tourism is the most important economic activity in the Caribbean, and the main foreign exchange earner. Even without the impact of a global financial crisis, it has been badly hit this year by one of the severest Atlantic hurricane seasons in living memory.

Winners and losers There have already been casualties:

Chronically troubled Air Jamaica has dropped its London-Kingston service and faces an uncertain future.

The biggest casualty so far was UK-based XL holiday and airline group, which went into administration in September, hit by higher fuel and other costs. Saint Lucia, Barbados, Tobago, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Antigua and Grenada were all hit hard by the XL collapse.

There will be more cuts to come:

US air capacity to the Caribbean will be down by as much as 11% this winter, as airlines cut their services or go out of business.

European travel companies are also reducing capacity for next year: Tui Travel and Thomas Cook have already announced cuts for next summer of 15% and 7%, respectively.

However, Air Canada, which has been cutting capacity across its network during this autumn, has decided to increase the number of seats to the Caribbean during the winter to 34,000 a week; while low-cost carrier WestJet launched a four-times-a-week service between Toronto and Barbados in early November. In addition, British Airways is launching a first-ever weekly scheduled service between Gatwick and Saint Kitts in January, which the islands' government has hailed as a boost to its high-end tourism strategy.

Cap Cana crisis However, in general, the region's bid to establish itself as an upmarket destination is likely to be one of the biggest short-term victims of the economic downturn. The Dominican Republic's efforts to attract golf tourists have been given a sharp jolt by the collapse of Lehman Brothers in September, which forced the ambitious 12,000-hectare Cap Cana development on the eastern tip of the island, which will eventually have three Jack Nicklaus signature golf courses, to suspend construction work and lay off nearly 500 workers.

The complex, which will take up to 15 years to complete, and has partnership agreements with Ritz-Carlton and Donald Trump, is experiencing serious financial difficulties. At the end of October Fitch Ratings downgraded Cap Cana's 250 million dollar senior secured notes, due in 2013, following what it described as a "significant deterioration in market conditions". The agency noted that the inability to access capital markets, together with a significant decrease in property sales, had created a lack of liquidity for the project, which was expected severely to constrain its ability to continue normal operations.

Another resort hit by the Lehman Brothers collapse is the Ritz-Carlton Molasses Reef project in the Turks and Caicos Islands, which includes a 125-room hotel, marina and condominiums on West Caicos. Work was temporarily paralysed in October, just before completion, when Israeli construction company Ashtrom was unable to pay its 60 Chinese labourers their wages.

Bahamas blow The Bahamas have also been hit. By September some 6,000 hotel employees were working a three-day week or less as US visitor numbers -- which account for more than 80% of tourist arrivals in the Bahamas -- dwindled. Since then Kerzner International's giant Atlantis resort on Paradise Island, which is the country's largest private employer, has laid off about 800 employees, or 10% of the workforce, blaming low occupancy rates. Atlantis only completed a 1 billion dollar expansion last year, which took its number of rooms to nearly 3,000.

On November 10, Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham warned Bahamians to brace themselves for more job losses, as many of the country's hotels and resorts were experiencing their lowest occupancy levels in many years. He said he expected unemployment to increase from the current 8.7% to double digits next year, and announced a programme of public works to limit the impact.

Cruise complications Cruise passenger arrivals -- another recent growth sector for the Caribbean -- have also fallen steeply in some countries this year:

they were down 8.7% in Antigua, 6.5% in the Bahamas and 31.8% in Saint Vincent in the first seven months of the year, compared with the same period in 2007;

down 17.9% year-on-year in Bermuda in the first eight months; and

down 11.7% in the Cayman Islands in the first nine months.

The downturn has not been across the board: cruise passenger arrivals were up 15.4% year-on-year to Barbados through June, up 37.6% to the Dominican Republic (which plans a new cruise ship terminal) through August, and up 21.4% to Aruba through September. However, the general trend is downwards: both Carnival and Royal Caribbean, the two biggest cruise companies, report reduced bookings for the first half of 2009.

Rays of hope Nevertheless, there have been some surprising trends in the tourist industry from which the Caribbean can derive some comfort:

Lastminute.com saw a 10% year-on-year increase in the second week of September in people booking their next holiday from the United Kingdom.

There has reportedly been a steep decline in lower-cost holidays but a rise in those costing 800 pounds (1,185 dollars) or more, especially to the Caribbean.

Some countries are tackling the downturn by seeking to diversify the tourism products they are offering:

For example, Grenada plans to focus more on niche markets, such as diving, weddings and honeymoons, yachting and fishing.

Others, including Antigua and Trinidad and Tobago, are hoping to develop sports tourism, cashing in on the achievements of their cricketers and athletes (see CARIBBEAN: Uncertainies cloud economic, unity outlook - January 8, 2007).

CONCLUSION: Although not all sectors of the Caribbean tourist industry have been affected so far, and longer-term prospects are encouraging, the situation is likely to get worse over the coming year, as credit remains in short supply and consumers reduce spending.

Subject: Economic conditions; Airlines; Economic growth; Leisure; Tourism

Location: Latin America Caribbean area Antigua & Barbuda Aruba Bahamas Barbados Bermuda Cayman Islands Dominican Republic Grenada Jamaica St Kitts Nevis Saint Lucia St Vincent Trinidad & Tobago Turks & Caicos

Classification: 9173: Latin America; 8350: Transportation & travel industry; 1110: Economic conditions & forecasts

Publication title: Oxford Analytica Daily Brief Service

Pages: n/a

Number of pages: 0

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 03, 2008

Publisher: Oxford Analytica Ltd

Place of publication: Oxford

Country of publication: United Kingdom

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 192454150

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/192454150?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Oxford Analytica Ltd. 2008. No publication or distribution is permitted without the express consent of Oxford Analytica.

Last updated: 2016-08-27

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 299 of 313

Brazilians Who Take Their Fun Mixed With a Clatter

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Dec 3, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Odd sounds kept appearing when Kassin+2, a band from Rio de Janeiro that’s grounded in Brazilian pop and familiar with funk, rock and Caribbean and African music, performed at Nublu on Tuesday night.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Odd sounds kept appearing when Kassin+2 performed at Nublu on Tuesday night. It’s a band from Rio de Janeiro that’s grounded in Brazilian pop and familiar with funk, rock and Caribbean and African music. And it made sure that noise infiltrated the supple tunes. There were abrupt chirps and swoops from keyboards and sampler, while guitar lines flipped into distortion and reverb or deliberately strayed into dissonance. In one song an insistent keyboard chord kept jabbing against the beat and the harmony; partway through, the rest of the band dropped out to flaunt it. For this band the noise is half the fun.

Actually it’s three bands, or one cooperative known as the +2s. Alexandre Kassin, Domenico Lancelotti and Moreno Veloso (whose father is the great songwriter Caetano Veloso) have each put out an album backed by the other two musicians; Mr. Kassin’s “Futurismo” (Luaka Bop) is the most recent. They are following through on the aesthetics of Caetano Veloso’s generation, which welcomed modernism and postmodernism by simply tossing the outside world’s intrusions and discontinuities onto the stockpile of raw materials, alongside their entire Brazilian heritage.

“I have no fear of the world,” Mr. Kassin sang in “Tranquilo,” over a Cuban lilt. His songs often mingle nonchalance and disquiet, with an easygoing melody or a trim new-wave guitar riff behind lyrics about what might go wrong.

Over two sets each songwriter had a segment leading the +2s, who were bolstered by extra musicians onstage — half a dozen of them, some stepping in for just a song or two. The three bandleaders share a deep fondness for the understated grace of Brazilian pop tunes, but they branch out.

Mr. Kassin and Mr. Veloso, both guitarists, came across onstage as introverts. Mr. Veloso — who started his miniset after doing some fast-footed dancing to one of Mr. Lancelotti’s songs — sang wistful melodies carrying advice like, “Stop that repressed longing,” enmeshed in layers of ingenious funk that could be dissonant or jovial.

Mr. Kassin switched between gentle tunes and upbeat ones laced with Afropop guitars, carnival beats and siren sounds. Mr. Lancelotti, who played a drum kit or a sampler including drum sounds, was the extrovert, clowning when he took over the microphone and building songs with riffs and quick chants. He started one song by clapping (joined by the audience) and slapping rhythms on his chest.

Set up in the middle of Nublu’s dance floor, the +2s looked as if they were playing a basement party amid the dancing and conversation. Yet their music was elegant as well as kinetic. Packed with ideas, the songs faced down private cares not by withdrawing, but by opening up to more possibilities: tuneful and clamorous, buoyant and barbed.

Kassin+2 will take part in "Red Hot + Rio 2" Thursday and Friday at the Howard Gilman Opera House, Brooklyn Academy of Music, 30 Lafayette Avenue, at Ashland Place, Fort Greene; (718) 636-4100 or bam.org.

Subject: Bands; Songwriters; Musicians & conductors; Musical performances

Location: Rio de Janeiro Brazil

Company / organization: Name: Brooklyn Academy of Music; NAICS: 813920

Identifier / keyword: Music Brazil Kassin+2 Pareles, Jon Musical Instruments Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) Veloso, Caetano Caribbean Area Guitars Africa Reviews Cuba

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 3, 2008

Section: arts

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 22208659 45

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2220865945?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-07

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 300 of 313

2008 CUBIC Award Recipients Honored at the 10th Annual Corporate University Week

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Business Wire ; New York [New York]03 Dec 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

IQPC

Nisha Prasad, 212-885-2738

Nisha.Prasad@iqpc.com

Logo: http://www.cuweek.com

Winners of the prestigious Corporate University Best-in-Class Awards were honored last month at the annual CUBIC Awards Gala in conjunction with IQPC's 10th Annual Corporate University Week in Orlando, FL. Distinguished leaders in learning and development, training, and corporate education came together Tuesday, November 18th to honor those companies that have demonstrated excellence in their internal training organizations. Jerry Moran, Director of Training and Development for Mohegan Sun chaired the ceremony.

New to the program this year was the category "Best Leadership Development Program." ConAgra foods won this category. Other winners included Atos Origin, Yapi Ve Kredi Bankasi A.S., Carnival Cruise Lines and Boystown.

Complete List of 2008 CUBIC Award Winners and Runners Up:

-- Best New Corporate University- YAPI VE KREDI BANKASI A.S., Atos Origin (Joint Winners), Borusan Holding (runner-up)

-- Most Promising Corporate University- Boystown (winner), United States Olympic Committee (runner-up)

-- Best Mature Corporate University- Carnival Cruise Lines (winner), Wipro Ltd. Bangalore (runner-up)

-- Best Leadership Development Program- ConAgra Foods (winner), Comcast Corporation (runner-up)

-- Corporate University Leader of the Year- ConAgra Foods (winner), Puget Sound Naval Shipyard and Intermediate Maintenance Facility (runner-up)

Other finalists included:

-- Best New Corporate University- AT&T

-- Most Promising Corporate University-Barilla North America, Aspect Software

-- Best Mature Corporate University-UNICO (Brasil), Comcast

-- Best Leadership Development Program-Seagate Technology, IKON Office Solutions

About Corporate University Week:

Corporate University Week brings together Fortune 500 learning and development executives to network, share best practices, solve issues facing the industry, and address new challenges. It is the only event that is customized for intermediate and advanced learning and development executives. The CUBIC awards recognize and honor outstanding organizations in learning and development. For more information about CU week please visit the website at: www.cuweek.com.

About IQPC:

International Quality and Productivity Center (www.iqpc.com) provides millions of business executives with tailored practical conferences, keeping them up-to-date with industry trends, technological developments and the regulatory landscape.

Subject: Awards & honors; Training; Cruise lines

Publication title: Business Wire; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 3, 2008

Dateline: NEW YORK & ORLANDO, Fla.

Publisher: Business Wire

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: Release

ProQuest document ID: 444354871

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/444354871?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Business Wire 2008

Last updated: 2010-06-30

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 301 of 313

Quincy Jones Delivers Keynote Address

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Sacramento Observer ; Sacramento, Calif. [Sacramento, Calif]04 Dec 2008: E5.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Among [Quincy Jones]' current and upcoming projects include the recently released book. "The Complete Quincy Jones: My Journey and Passions," a feature film documentary on Brazil's annual Carnival Festival which will benefit the victims of Hurricane Katrina and Brazil's impoverished Favelas, a bio-pic mini-series on jazz great Louis Armstrong, a duets album with Tony Bennett and Stevie Wonder, and a tribute album of his recordings featuring artists such as Usher, John Legend and Amy Winehouse, among others. He is also planning a chain of nightclub-restaurants based on his album Q's Jook Joint, with the first slated to open in Las Yegas in 2009.

Among Quincy Jones' countless awards and accolades he is a 27 time Grammy Award winner (the most of any living musician) and is the all-time most nominated Grammy artist with a total of 79 nominations. He is the recipient of an Emmy Award; the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award; 7 Academy Award nominations including one for Best Picture - only African American producer to do so; France's highest civilian honor the Commandeur de la Legion d'Honneur;" and was recognized as a Kennedy Center Honoree for his contributions to the cultural fabric of the United States. Most recently, Jones' vast contributions to music were recognized by the National Endowment for the Arts when he was named a Jazz Master, the nation's highest jazz honor.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Headnote

Producer And Humanitarian To Speak During Music Conference Festival

AUSTIN, Texas

Impresario and, multi-Grammy winning producer, composer and arranger Quincy Jones will deliver the keynote address at the 2009 South By Southwest (SXSW) Music -Conference inAustin.TX on March 19th, 2009 it was announced this week.

A longtime humanitarian who produced and conducted the historic "We Are The World" recording benefitting Ethiopian famine relief, Jones is expected to discuss the power of music to influence and create positive change in the world and the responsibility of the artist to use their craft to bring people together for the betterment of mankind.

Among Jones' current and upcoming projects include the recently released book. "The Complete Quincy Jones: My Journey and Passions," a feature film documentary on Brazil's annual Carnival Festival which will benefit the victims of Hurricane Katrina and Brazil's impoverished Favelas, a bio-pic mini-series on jazz great Louis Armstrong, a duets album with Tony Bennett and Stevie Wonder, and a tribute album of his recordings featuring artists such as Usher, John Legend and Amy Winehouse, among others. He is also planning a chain of nightclub-restaurants based on his album Q's Jook Joint, with the first slated to open in Las Yegas in 2009.

Named by Time Magazine as one of the six most influential Jazz artists of the 20th Century, Quincy Jones' career has spanned six decades and encompassed the roles of composer, arranger, conductor, instrumentalist, record producer, record executive, film and television producer, magazine founder, multi-media entrepreneur and humanitarian. As a master inventor of musical hybrids, Quincy Jones has shuffled pop, soul, hip-hop, jazz, classical, African and Brazilian music into many dazzling fusions, traversing virtually every medium, including records, live performances, movies, television and magazine publishing.

Among Quincy Jones' countless awards and accolades he is a 27 time Grammy Award winner (the most of any living musician) and is the all-time most nominated Grammy artist with a total of 79 nominations. He is the recipient of an Emmy Award; the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award; 7 Academy Award nominations including one for Best Picture - only African American producer to do so; France's highest civilian honor the Commandeur de la Legion d'Honneur;" and was recognized as a Kennedy Center Honoree for his contributions to the cultural fabric of the United States. Most recently, Jones' vast contributions to music were recognized by the National Endowment for the Arts when he was named a Jazz Master, the nation's highest jazz honor.

Quincy Jones began his career at the age of 13 under the tutelage of legendary Jazz artists such as lifelong friend and collaborator Ray Charles, Count Basie, Lionel Hampton, Billy Holliday, Billy Eckstine, Bumps Blackwell, Clark Terry, and Bobby Tucker. After receiving scholarships to Seattle University and the Schillinger House, now known as the Berklee College of Music, Jones would move to New York where he officially began his career touring as a trumpeter and arranger for Lionel Hampton. It would be during this period of his life that Jones would make his first trip abroad to Europe where he would witness firsthand the power of music to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries and lead him to a lifelong pursuit of international collaborations and goodwill.

In 1953, Jones would depart Hampton's band and begin a busy career as a composer/arranger working with diverse artists such as Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Sarah Vaughan, Dinah Washington, Dizzy Gillespie, Clifford Brown and Cannonball Adderly, as well as Basie, Hampton and Charles.

Jones would again experience music's power to build bridges in 1956 when he was tapped by Dizzy Gillespie to serve as musical director, arranger and trumpeter for the Gillespie Orchestra's U.S. State Department sponsored tour tasked with bringing goodwill to troubled areas in Europe, the Middle East and South America. Following the tour, Jones would re-locate to Paris where he would study with Nadia Boulanger, the legendary Parisian tutor to American expatriate composers such as Leonard Bernstein and Aaron Copeland.

Jones won the first of his many Grammy Awards in 1963 for his Count Basie arrangement of"I Can't Stop Loving You."His three-year musical association as conductor and arranger with Frank Sinatra in the mid-60's also teamed him with Basie for the classic Sinatra At The Sands, containing the famous arrangement of"Fly Me To The Moon,"the first recording played by astronaut Buzz Aldrin when he landed upon the moon's surface in 1969.

As producer and conductor of the historic "We Are The World "recording (the best-selling single of all time), Michael Jackson's multi-platinum solo albums, Off The WaU, Bad and Thriller (the best-selling album of all time), and the multi-Grammy winning "Album of the Year"Back On The Block, Quincy Jones stands as one of the most successful and admired creative artist/executives in the entertainment world.

The South By Southwest Music & Media Conference takes place March 18 - 22, 2009 at the Austin Convention Center in Austin,Texas. Quincy Jones' keynote anchors four days of panels, interviews, workshops, peer meetings and the trade show exhibition covering a wide variety of topics, addressing the concerns and interests of musicians, executives and music lovers. Daytime events flow into the worldrenowned music festival, which showcases over 1700 acts on stages throughout downtown Austin.

Subject: Musicians & conductors; Speech; Conferences; Careers; Awards & honors

Location: Austin Texas

People: Jones, Quincy

Ethnicity: African American, Caribbean, African

Publication title: Sacramento Observer; Sacramento, Calif.

Volume: 45

Issue: 51

Pages: E5

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 4-Dec 10, 2008

Section: Calendar

Publisher: Sacramento Observer

Place of publication: Sacramento, Calif.

Country of publication: United States, Sacramento, Calif.

Publication subject: African American/Caribbean/African, Ethnic Interests

ISSN: 00362212

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

Document feature: Photographs

ProQuest document ID: 367711713

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/367711713?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Sacramento Observer Dec 4-Dec 10, 2008

Last updated: 2010-06-23

Database: Ethnic NewsWatch

Document 302 of 313

Multi-Grammy Winning Producer Quincy Jones to Deliver Keynote Address During South By Southwest Music Conference

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: PR Newswire ; New York [New York]04 Dec 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Named by Time Magazine as one of the six most influential Jazz artists of the 20th Century, Quincy Jones' career has spanned six decades and encompassed the roles of composer, arranger, conductor, instrumentalist, record producer, record executive, film and television producer, magazine founder, multi-media entrepreneur and humanitarian.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

AUSTIN, Texas, Dec. 4 /PRNewswire/ -- Impresario and multi-Grammy winning producer, composer and arranger Quincy Jones will deliver the keynote address at the 2009 South By Southwest (SXSW) Music Conference in Austin, TX on March 19th, 2009 it was announced today.

A longtime humanitarian who produced and conducted the historic "We Are The World" recording benefitting Ethiopian famine relief, Jones is expected to discuss the power of music to influence and create positive change in the world and the responsibility of the artist to use their craft to bring people together for the betterment of mankind.

Among Jones' current and upcoming projects include the recently released book "The Complete Quincy Jones: My Journey and Passions," a feature film documentary on Brazil's annual Carnival Festival which will benefit the victims of Hurricane Katrina and Brazil's impoverished Favelas, a bio-pic mini-series on jazz great Louis Armstrong, a duets album with Tony Bennett and Stevie Wonder, and a tribute album of his recordings featuring artists such as Usher, John Legend and Amy Winehouse, among others. He is also planning a chain of nightclub-restaurants based on his album Q's Jook Joint, with the first slated to open in Las Vegas in 2009.

Named by Time Magazine as one of the six most influential Jazz artists of the 20th Century, Quincy Jones' career has spanned six decades and encompassed the roles of composer, arranger, conductor, instrumentalist, record producer, record executive, film and television producer, magazine founder, multi-media entrepreneur and humanitarian. As a master inventor of musical hybrids, Quincy Jones has shuffled pop, soul, hip-hop, jazz, classical, African and Brazilian music into many dazzling fusions, traversing virtually every medium, including records, live performances, movies, television and magazine publishing.

Among Quincy Jones' countless awards and accolades he is a 27 time Grammy Award winner (the most of any living musician) and is the all-time most nominated Grammy artist with a total of 79 nominations. He is the recipient of an Emmy Award; the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences Jean Hersholt Humanitarian Award; 7 Academy Award nominations including one for Best Picture -- only African-American producer to do so; France's highest civilian honor the Commandeur de la Legion d'Honneur; and was recognized as a Kennedy Center Honoree for his contributions to the cultural fabric of the United States. Most recently, Jones' vast contributions to music were recognized by the National Endowment for the Arts when he was named a Jazz Master, the nation's highest jazz honor.

Quincy Jones began his career at the age of 13 under the tutelage of legendary Jazz artists such as lifelong friend and collaborator Ray Charles, Count Basie, Lionel Hampton, Billy Holliday, Billy Eckstine, Bumps Blackwell, Clark Terry, and Bobby Tucker. After receiving scholarships to Seattle University and the Schillinger House, now known as the Berklee College of Music, Jones would move to New York where he officially began his career touring as a trumpeter and arranger for Lionel Hampton. It would be during this period of his life that Jones would make his first trip abroad to Europe where he would witness firsthand the power of music to transcend cultural and geographical boundaries and lead him to a lifelong pursuit of international collaborations and goodwill.

In 1953, Jones would depart Hampton's band and begin a busy career as a composer/arranger working with diverse artists such as Louis Armstrong, Duke Ellington, Sarah Vaughan, Dinah Washington, Dizzy Gillespie, Clifford Brown and Cannonball Adderly, as well as Basie, Hampton and Charles.

Jones would again experience music's power to build bridges in 1956 when he was tapped by Dizzy Gillespie to serve as musical director, arranger and trumpeter for the Gillespie Orchestra's U.S. State Department sponsored tour tasked with bringing goodwill to troubled areas in Europe, the Middle East and South America. Following the tour, Jones would re-locate to Paris where he would study with Nadia Boulanger, the legendary Parisian tutor to American expatriate composers such as Leonard Bernstein and Aaron Copeland.

Jones won the first of his many Grammy Awards in 1963 for his Count Basie arrangement of "I Can't Stop Loving You." His three-year musical association as conductor and arranger with Frank Sinatra in the mid-60's also teamed him with Basie for the classic Sinatra At The Sands, containing the famous arrangement of "Fly Me To The Moon," the first recording played by astronaut Buzz Aldrin when he landed upon the moon's surface in 1969.

As producer and conductor of the historic "We Are The World" recording (the best-selling single of all time), Michael Jackson's multi-platinum solo albums, Off The Wall, Bad and Thriller (the best-selling album of all time), and the multi-Grammy winning "Album of the Year" Back On The Block, Quincy Jones stands as one of the most successful and admired creative artist/executives in the entertainment world.

The South By Southwest Music & Media Conference takes place March 18 - 22, 2009 at the Austin Convention Center in Austin, Texas. Quincy Jones' keynote anchors four days of panels, interviews, workshops, peer meetings and the trade show exhibition covering a wide variety of topics, addressing the concerns and interests of musicians, executives and music lovers. Daytime events flow into the world-renowned music festival, which showcases over 1700 acts on stages throughout downtown Austin.

For more information on SXSW or to register for the conference, please access the website at http://sxsw.com or e-mail sxsw@sxsw.com. For more information on Quincy Jones, please visit http://www.quincyjones.com.

SXSW Music Conference and Festival is sponsored by Miller Lite, Independent Film Channel, Fuze Beverage, Sonicbids, ZonePerfect and the Austin Chronicle.

For more information, contact

Elizabeth Derczo, SXSW

512/467-7979 ext. 209, press@sxsw.com or

Arnold Robinson, Rogers & Cowan

(310) 854-8100, Arobinson@rogersandcowan.com

SOURCE South By Southwest

Credit: South By Southwest

Subject: Awards & honors; Jazz; Musicians & conductors; Grammy awards; Musical performances; Music; Motion picture directors & producers

People: Jones, Quincy

Publication title: PR Newswire; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 4, 2008

Dateline: AUSTIN, Texas

Publisher: PR Newswire Association LLC

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 450619677

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/450619677?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright PR Newswire Association LLC Dec 4, 2008

Last updated: 2010-11-03

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 303 of 313

In Salvador, Amado's exuberance lives on

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Dec 5, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

SALVADOR, Brazil — In Portuguese, "amado" means "beloved," and in more than a score of novels, the Brazilian writer Jorge Amado made clear his eternal passion for Salvador da Bahia, the city that took him in as a teenage boarding student and became his home. Salvador, in turn, loved him back, and even now, more than six years after his death, Amado's exuberant spirit, aesthetic and characters seem to permeate the streets of the place he described both as "the most mysterious and beautiful of the world's cities" and "the most languid of women."

For visitors keen to experience those tropical mysteries, Amado went so far as to suggest an itinerary in his novel, "Tereza Batista: Home From the Wars." He wanted tourists to see not just "our beaches, our churches embroidered with gold, the blue Portuguese ceramic tiles, the Baroque, the picturesque popular festivals and the fetishist ceremonies," but also "the putridity of the slum houses on stilts and the whorehouses."

That kind of dichotomy was typical of Amado, who, especially in his early years, tended to see everything as pairs of opposites: good and evil, black and white, sacred and profane, rich and poor. He even managed to impose that Manichean vision on the geography of Salvador, scorning Rua Chile, then the main commercial street of the upper city, and its well-to-do clientele in favor of the lower city and the port, where sailors, longshoremen, beggars, prostitutes and grifters saturated him in "the greasy black mystery of the city of Salvador da Bahia."

Nowadays, the heart of the lower city has been restored and gentrified. The beach where the homeless street urchins of his 1937 novel, "Captains of the Sands," struggled to survive has disappeared, replaced by a yacht club and a small mall that includes art galleries and a restaurant, Trapiche de Adelaide, that not only may be Salvador's finest but also offers a magnificent view of the bay.

But at the noisy, stifling Mercado Municipal just down the road, the flavor of the old days lingers. Inside, stalls sell not just T-shirts but also herbs, magic potions, aphrodisiacs and amulets. On the plaza out front, con artists perform card tricks, folk poets known as repentistas and cordelistas recite or sing their verses, and practitioners of capoeira perform their graceful mixture of dance and martial arts to the twang of the single metal string of the gourd-like berimbau.

The link between the scruffy lower city and the imposing "black mass on the green mountain above the sea," as Amado referred to the upper city in "Pastors of the Night," is the 191-foot Lacerda Elevator, which was itself featured in "Sea of Death," published in 1936. At its upper terminus, the elevator opens onto a square that provides a sweeping view of the city and the bay.

But at its lower terminus, the elevator is surrounded by funky bars that play axé, pagode and other styles of music favored by the Brazilian working class. Every time I exit, I think of "The Two Deaths of Quincas Wateryell" and its description of a bar "full of glum clusters of young guys, joyful sailors, women down on their luck and truck drivers with long hauls scheduled."

As much as its people, Salvador's streets and landmarks are characters in Amado's novels. Salvador overwhelmed the author with its sights, sounds and smells. "In Bahia, popular culture enters through the eyes, the ears, the mouth (so rich, colorful and tasty the culinary arts) and penetrates all the senses," he wrote in "Bay of All Saints," a guidebook first published in 1945 that is unfortunately out of print.

Amado's own presence is perhaps most palpably felt at the museum on Pelourinho Square that bears his name. Inside are numerous photographs of the novelist, at work and with his family, at home in Salvador and abroad, where he lived in reluctant exile for some years. The permanent exhibition also displays first-edition covers, in Portuguese and in translation into more than 40 languages, of each of his novels.

As you sit on the museum steps, the most famous scene from Amado's best-known novel, "Dona Flor and Her Two Husbands," also made into a movie in the 1970s, comes readily to mind. Even with the cobblestoned plaza cluttered by touts trying to sell trinkets to sunburned tourists in Bermuda shorts, the image of Flor walking with Teodoro on one side and the naked ghost of Vadinho on the other seems an indelible part of the landscape.

Just across the square, at Largo do Pelourinho 68, is the boardinghouse where Amado lived when he first came to Salvador from the provincial town of Ilhéus in 1928 at the age of 16 to study. Not coincidentally, an early novel written in Socialist Realist style, "Sweat," is set in the building, which today is painted pastel green and has a small plaque that acknowledges its importance in Amado's intellectual formation.

Legend says that Salvador has 365 churches, one for each day of the year, and each meant to be more spectacular than the last. The most dazzling of the lot is probably São Francisco, a frothy Baroque confection a couple of blocks from Pelourinho that is awash in gold arabesques and is connected to a monastery whose walls are decorated with gorgeous 18th-century Portuguese tiles.

But Amado always felt a special affection for the more austere Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Rosário dos Pretos because of its links to the historic suffering of the blacks who make up the majority of the city's population. The church is at the foot of Pelourinho Square, where in colonial days slaves were flogged, and Amado, sometimes unjustly accused by his critics of favoring exoticism and sentimentality over substance, never forgot that.

"The church was all blue in the late afternoon, the church of the slaves in the square where the whipping post and pillories had been erected," he wrote in "Tent of Miracles," published in 1969. "Is that the reflection of the sun or a smear of blood on the cobblestones? So much blood has run over these stones, so many cries of pain rose to heaven, so many supplications and curses resonated on the walls of that blue church."

Food was also essential to Amado's world, as the title of "Gabriela, Clove and Cinnamon" clearly conveys. Amado's humble heroines are frequently of the belief that the surest way to a man's heart is through his stomach, and more often than not they are proven right. "If after confronting all the dangers and obstacles that life offers, you don't eat well, then what's the point?" one character observes in "The Violent Land."

Walking down the slanted sidewalk of Pelourinho Square last year, I caught the unmistakable fragrance of dende, or palm oil, and peanut sauce wafting from a doorway. It turned out to be the entrance to the Museu da Gastronomia Bahiana, which opened in 2006 and offers a solid introduction to the culinary delights of Amado's novels. Just downstairs from a restaurant operated by Senac, a government training school for hotel workers, waiters and chefs, the museum is divided into three sections. The first displays the ingredients of typical Bahian dishes, along with the utensils required to make them and photographs of the final results, while the second is a store that sells cookbooks, sweets and compotes.

The third, of course, is the restaurant itself, which is not just a tribute to the cuisine that inspired Amado but also an invitation to gluttony. For 28 reals ($15.56 at 1.8 reals to the dollar), visitors can eat as much as they want of the 40 or so dishes displayed on long serving tables. The choices range from vatapá, a savory paste made from shrimp, coconut milk, palm oil and nuts, to quindim, an intensely yellow custard that combines egg yolks, sugar and ground coconut. Drinks are served by women wearing the turbans and flouncy dresses of Candomblé priestesses.

Like Pedro Archanjo, the hero of his novel "Tent of Miracles," Amado was a lapsed Communist and atheist who eventually became so involved in Candomblé, the African-derived religion that is Brazil's equivalent to voodoo, that he became an obá, or honorary high priest in the cult of Xangô, the deity of lightning and justice. Candomblé beliefs and practices pervade Amado's novels and motivate many of his characters, especially in "The War of the Saints," the last of his great novels, published in 1988.

"In this land of Bahia, saints and enchanted beings perform miracles and sorcery," Amado wrote, "and not even Marxist ethnologists are surprised to see a carving from a Catholic altar turn into a bewitching mulatto woman at the hour of dusk."

The terreiros, or open-air Candomblé sanctuaries, which Amado frequented back when they were illegal and subject to police raids, now flourish and are open to visitors. Some hotels organize trips to what they advertise as Candomblé ceremonies. But these tend either to be bogus or at the very least watered down.

A better option is to make arrangements with one of the established terreiros to attend a worship service and, since most of the tabernacles are in poor, outlying neighborhoods, hire a taxi. Amado was fond of both the Casa Branca group in the Vasco da Gama neighborhood and Ilê Axé Opô Afonjá, in the Cabula area, which the Brazilian government designated a national treasure in 2001.

Both are good choices for visitors. Ilê Axé Opô Afonjá was "my house," Amado wrote, where "I have my chair at the side of the high priestess and at times am her spokesman." He also urged visitors to be sure to ask their own orixá, or divinity, for protection just as soon as they arrived in Salvador.

"The pathways of Salvador are guarded by Exu, one of the most important orixás in the liturgy of Candomblé," he wrote in "Bay of All Saints." But Exu is often confused with the devil, so "woe be unto those who disembark with malevolent intentions, with a heart of hatred or envy, or stop here tinged by violence or acrimony."

For most of the last decades of his life, Amado lived at Rua Alagoinhas 33, in the Rio Vermelho neighborhood, far from both the lower and upper city. At one point in "Dona Flor," a character complains that "the worst address can only be Rio Vermelho, with its isolation and impostors, an end-of-the-world, almost suburban kind of place, and so ordinary."

But in fact the area is charming, and the street on which Amado lived is quiet and palm shaded. The house itself is decorated with blue and white tiles with images of birds and fruit, and has a white tower with a statue and Candomblé emblem honoring Xangô. After Amado's death on Aug. 6, 2001, his ashes were scattered in the house's garden.

"The years of freedom I spent on the streets of Salvador da Bahia, mixing with the people of the docks, of the markets and fairs" and other somewhat disreputable and picaresque locations were "my best university," Amado said when he was inducted into the Brazilian Academy of Letters in 1961. Or as one of the characters in "Captains of the Sands" muses, "there is nothing better in the world than to walk like this, at random, through the streets of Bahia."

VISITOR INFORMATION

HOW TO GET THERE

Once a week, TAM Airlines, the Brazilian carrier, operates a direct flight between Miami and Salvador da Bahia. The plane leaves on Sunday morning and arrives 7 hours and 45 minutes later; a round-trip ticket costs about $1,300. During the rest of the week, though, visitors must fly overnight to Rio de Janeiro or São Paulo and make connections there, adding both time and cost to the trip.

WHERE TO STAY

The Hotel Tropical (Avenida 7 de Setembro 1537; 55-71-2105-2000; www.tropicalhotel.com.br) is conveniently located near both the central area in the upper city and the main in-town beaches, and is decorated with murals by Carybé, who illustrated many of Jorge Amado's novels. There are 253 rooms, and a double, with breakfast and taxes included, is 239 reals ($132.78 at 1.8 reals to the dollar).

Of the many hotels on the beachfront, the Othon Palace (at Avenida Oceânica 2294 in Ondina; 55-71-2103-7100; www.othon.com.br) is a personal favorite. It's within walking distance of several landmarks and fine restaurants, is only a short cab ride away from the lower city, and has 278 rooms with rustic-style furniture and verandahs, most offering spectacular views of the sea and a nearby lighthouse. Double rooms start at about 200 reals.

If you're willing to splurge, the Convento do Carmo (Rua do Carmo 1; 55-71-3327-8400; www.pousadas.pt) is definitely the place to go. The main building, recently and luxuriously restored, dates from 1586 and is walking distance from Pelourinho. There is a splendid restaurant and a museum, large courtyard and gardens, and the rooms are decorated in an elegant colonial style. But expect to pay a high price: double rooms start at 680 reals.

WHERE TO EAT

In what was once a dockside warehouse, Trapiche de Adelaide (Avenida do Contorno 2 in the lower city; 55-71-3326-2211) offers a beautiful view of the bay and has food to match. The menu emphasizes local ingredients prepared with French delicacy: a typical meal might start with a soup of cassava and lobster, progress to a main course of shrimp in mustard sauce garnished with almonds, pineapple and apricots and conclude with tropical fruits or ice cream made from the same. Lunch or dinner for two, with a caipirinha, a cocktail made from sugar cane liquor, is about 200 reals.

At the Mercado Modelo, two restaurants outdoors on the second-story verandah are good places to have lunch while enjoying the view. Camafeu de Oxóssi (55-71-3242-9751) and Maria de São Pedro (55-71-3242-5262) are bitter rivals, but have essentially the same menu and prices, featuring regional dishes such as xin xin, a chicken and shrimp stew, and bobó de camarão , a shrimp dish. Lunch for two with a caipirinha, is about 60 reals.

Varal da Dadá (Rua Teixeira Mendes 55, Alto das Pombas in Federação; 55-71-3332-1777) is exactly the kind of informal neighborhood place that Jorge Amado frequented, with the added lure of spectacular regional cuisine. Dadá is the nickname of a local cook famous for her moquecas, or fish stews, bobó de camarão and sweet desserts, and the restaurant that bears her name operates in the backyard of her home, Tuesday through Sunday. Lunch or dinner for two with beer or a caipirinha runs about 75 reals.

MUSIC

Many of Brazil's biggest pop stars, including Caetano Veloso, Gilberto Gil, Maria Bethânia, Gal Costa and Carlinhos Brown, are from Salvador, and even when it's not Carnival time, Salvador seems to be a festival of musical styles ranging from axé and tropicalista pop to samba-reggae and funk. The Olodum drum choir, which has worked with Paul Simon and Michael Jackson, rehearses most Tuesday nights at Pelourinho Square. Admission is 60 reals; call (55-71) 3321-5010 to confirm that practice is on.

Capoeira is a mixture of martial arts and dance developed by slaves brought from Africa, and is extremely musical. There are academies that teach the art form and put on shows for the public, such as the Fundação Mestre Bimba (Rua Gregorio de Mattos 51 in Pelourinho; 55-71-3322-5082), and on Friday nights capoeira is also performed at the Terreiro de Jesus, near Pelourinho.

Subject: Art galleries & museums; Baroque era; Elevators & escalators; Martial arts; Restaurants

Location: Brazil

People: Amado, Jorge

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 5, 2008

Section: travel

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2220801528

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2220801528?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-07

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 304 of 313

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Names Managing Director for Brazil Operations

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: PR Newswire ; New York [New York]10 Dec 2008.

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MIAMI, Dec. 10 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. has selected Brazilian cruise industry veteran Ricardo Amaral as managing director of its operations in Brazil.

In the newly created position, Amaral will oversee all commercial and operational activities for three of the company's brands, Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises and Azamara Cruises. Amaral will assume his new position in January.

"We are very pleased to have such a seasoned cruise professional joining us and helping us establish a team in Brazil," said Michael Bayley, senior vice president, International, for Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. "Ricardo has a proven track record of success in our industry, and a long working relationship with our company. This will serve him well as he works toward opening our new office in Brazil, in 2009."

Amaral has 17 years of experience in the cruise industry, which includes working for leading cruise companies as their local representative and head of their marketing and sales operations in Brazil.

For the past nine years, Amaral has worked as the director of Marketing and Sales for Sun and Sea Representacoes, the company that has represented Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. in Brazil for 21 years. In that role he coordinated advertising, budgeting, sales, public relations and commercial strategy for Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Azamara Cruises.

Previously, Amaral spent seven years as a marketing manager for Costa Crociere in Brazil, where he oversaw marketing planning, budgeting, sales, and charters. Prior to that, he held positions at Oremar Brazil, working with Carnival and Cunard cruise lines, and at Sheraton Brazil.

"We thank our colleagues at Sun and Sea Representacoes for their outstanding service to our company over the past 21 years," Bayley said. "They have done an excellent job working with us and developing the cruise business throughout Brazil."

Amaral graduated from the Faculdades Integradas Hebraico Brasileiras Renascenca, in 1991, with a degree in Hotel Management. In 2002, he earned a Masters degree in tourism from the University of Sao Paulo, where he is currently completing a Doctorate degree in tourism. Amaral taught tourism and marketing for 14 years in several of Brazil's leading schools, including MBA courses in tourism at the University of Sao Paulo. He also is the author of the book, "Cruzeiros Maritimos."

Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. is a global cruise vacation company that operates Royal Caribbean International, Celebrity Cruises, Pullmantur, Azamara Cruises and CDF Croisieres de France. The company has a combined total of 38 ships in service and six under construction. It also offers unique land-tour vacations in Alaska, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Europe and South America. Additional information can be found on www.royalcaribbean.com, www.celebrity.com, www.pullmantur.es, www.azamaracruises.com, www.cdfcroisieresdefrance.com or www.rclinvestor.com.

SOURCE Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.

Credit: Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.

Subject: Cruise lines; Marketing; Appointments & personnel changes

Location: Brazil

Company / organization: Name: Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd; NAICS: 483112, 551112

Publication title: PR Newswire; New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 10, 2008

Dateline: MIAMI

Publisher: PR Newswire Association LLC

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: Business And Economics

Source type: Wire Feeds

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 448450557

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/448450557?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright PR Newswire Association LLC Dec 10, 2008

Last updated: 2010-11-03

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; US Southeast Newsstream

Document 305 of 313

"Paramount sends Private Jet to Seven Wonders" By Daniel J. Quigley

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Al Bawaba ; London [London]11 Dec 2008.

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Abstract:

The trip is open to anyone who wishes to book it, whether they are individuals, couples, an entire family wishing for an unforgettable reunion-vacation, or executives who wish to treat their officers to a remarkable team-building opportunity.The endeavor costs $356,250 per passenger for a grand total of approximately $5.7 million.For those who cannot take a vacation for an entire month, Paramount has added an option to book the final three legs of the tour, to make a 16-day adventure for $4.2 million.Between the exciting opportunities aboard the Boeing Business Jet come the stops and the magnificence of the world's wonders.During travel on one of the most lavish vessels the private jet industry has to offer, a guide prepares passengers for what to expect at each coming stop. The most knowledgeable and resourceful tour guides available meet travelers at each destination to fully reveal the mystique of all stops on the trip.Furthermore, fully trained security details accompany travelers at the destinations, and all people on the trip are issued cell phones to ensure the highest level of safety for their utmost worry-free enjoyment.While in each city, the members of the voyage stay at the highest-quality resorts and are chauffeured to each wonder by premium ground transport. Each stop on the journey includes extra time for travelers to experience the best of the best in entertainment, shopping, other tourist attractions and parties, specially created for the travel party. Taking off from JFK airport Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2009, the journey stops first in Rome, Italy to showcase the birthplace of modern society, art and science. While there, travelers can witness the magnificence of the Roman Coliseum. Estimated to have been built around 72 AD, the Coliseum was capable of holding up to 80,000 spectators who witnessed everything from public spectacles to bloody gladiator clashes. Aside from the Coliseum, Rome offers the awesome architecture and reverence of Vatican City with the breathtaking art of Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel painting, as well as some of history's most notable artistic works and buildings. Rome also hosts some of Europe's premier tourist and nightlife destinations. From Rome, passengers continue to Cairo, Egypt to visit the pyramids of Giza. Considered a wonder since the ancient times, the pyramids continue to baffle and capture the imaginations of those ranging from visitors to religious pilgrims and scientists. According to History.com, the pyramid, Khufu, in Giza remained the world's tallest building for more than 4,000 years and was not surpassed until the 19th century.Next Stop: Amman, Jordan from which the voyagers take luxury transport to the ancient ruins of Petra, carved and built into the sides of sandstone cliffs and canyons containing large networks of passages and gorges. While on horseback, visitors are able to witness the majestic architecture of a city that has been inhabited since prehistoric times and has served as temples and tombs to its inhabitants. Located between the Dead Sea and the Red Sea, Petra has served as critical crossroads between Arabia, Egypt and Syria-Phoenicia since ancient times.After Petra, it's on to exotic Agra, India, where the spectacular Taj Mahal graces the landscape.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

Paramount Business Jets, the leader of quality, safety and comfort in the executive jet charter industry, is now offering the ultimate dream trip, an excursion to the Seven Wonders of the World.On the adventure, the first 16 passengers or group to book the trip are whisked away on a month-long journey to some of the premier tourist cities on Earth.The escapade touches all six of the world's civilized continents, aboard a fully-staffed 737 Boeing Business Jet loaded with amenities, including a full shower, complete telecommunications capabilities, movies, live music, gourmet menus, in-flight massage services and gold-plated facial treatments by Paramount partner, Rejuvenair, and even a yoga instructor. "This is the ultimate fantasy trip," said Richard Zaher, chief executive of Paramount Business Jets.Zaher said Paramount plans on balancing the emissions created by the Boeing Business Jet through TerraPass, a leading carbon management services company. TerraPass commends the move by Paramount. "TerraPass is pleased to have been chosen as the carbon offset provider for this amazing journey," said Erik Blachford, CEO of TerraPass Inc. and former CEO of Expedia."This trip has everything," Zaher said. "We wanted do something to protect the environment, but it is also be extremely fun and educational." In a unique collaboration, the internationally acclaimed author and leadership expert Dr. Thomas D. Zweifel, the CEO of Swiss Consulting Group and former Columbia University professor who has worked with Fortune 500 senior managers and heads of state, is on board to give keynotes and workshops on 21st century leadership challenges, executive communication, and effective cross-cultural management. "We are fortunate to have Zweifel with us on the trip," Zaher, said. "He has been described by the U.S. State Department as a 'miracle worker.' He adds for our clients the one-of-a-kind value that you simply don't get anywhere else."Passengers have the options to work with Dr. Zweifel in one-on-one executive coaching sessions, map out their future and upgrade their leadership game.To add to the trip, Paramount has booked world-renowned spiritual mentor, facilitator, author and nationally syndicated columnist Janice Lundy.Lundy presents "Believe, Breathe and Be Well: Spiritual Health for Busy People." The discussion centers on total wellbeing, workplace success and harmonious relationships with others using a mixture of the world's traditional wisdoms.On-board entertainment includes award-winning composer and classical pianist Wayne Sharpe, known worldwide for his blend of Eastern instrumentation and strong Western styles.

The trip is open to anyone who wishes to book it, whether they are individuals, couples, an entire family wishing for an unforgettable reunion-vacation, or executives who wish to treat their officers to a remarkable team-building opportunity.The endeavor costs $356,250 per passenger for a grand total of approximately $5.7 million.For those who cannot take a vacation for an entire month, Paramount has added an option to book the final three legs of the tour, to make a 16-day adventure for $4.2 million.Between the exciting opportunities aboard the Boeing Business Jet come the stops and the magnificence of the world's wonders.During travel on one of the most lavish vessels the private jet industry has to offer, a guide prepares passengers for what to expect at each coming stop. The most knowledgeable and resourceful tour guides available meet travelers at each destination to fully reveal the mystique of all stops on the trip.Furthermore, fully trained security details accompany travelers at the destinations, and all people on the trip are issued cell phones to ensure the highest level of safety for their utmost worry-free enjoyment.While in each city, the members of the voyage stay at the highest-quality resorts and are chauffeured to each wonder by premium ground transport. Each stop on the journey includes extra time for travelers to experience the best of the best in entertainment, shopping, other tourist attractions and parties, specially created for the travel party. Taking off from JFK airport Wednesday, Jan. 26, 2009, the journey stops first in Rome, Italy to showcase the birthplace of modern society, art and science. While there, travelers can witness the magnificence of the Roman Coliseum. Estimated to have been built around 72 AD, the Coliseum was capable of holding up to 80,000 spectators who witnessed everything from public spectacles to bloody gladiator clashes. Aside from the Coliseum, Rome offers the awesome architecture and reverence of Vatican City with the breathtaking art of Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel painting, as well as some of history's most notable artistic works and buildings. Rome also hosts some of Europe's premier tourist and nightlife destinations. From Rome, passengers continue to Cairo, Egypt to visit the pyramids of Giza. Considered a wonder since the ancient times, the pyramids continue to baffle and capture the imaginations of those ranging from visitors to religious pilgrims and scientists. According to History.com, the pyramid, Khufu, in Giza remained the world's tallest building for more than 4,000 years and was not surpassed until the 19th century.Next Stop: Amman, Jordan from which the voyagers take luxury transport to the ancient ruins of Petra, carved and built into the sides of sandstone cliffs and canyons containing large networks of passages and gorges. While on horseback, visitors are able to witness the majestic architecture of a city that has been inhabited since prehistoric times and has served as temples and tombs to its inhabitants. Located between the Dead Sea and the Red Sea, Petra has served as critical crossroads between Arabia, Egypt and Syria-Phoenicia since ancient times.After Petra, it's on to exotic Agra, India, where the spectacular Taj Mahal graces the landscape. A gigantic mausoleum erected between 1631 and 1648 at the behest of the Mughal emperor, Shah Jahan, in honor of his favorite wife, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) calls the Taj Mahal "the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage." Next, Paramount Business Jets Seven Wonders participants go to Beijing, China to see the awe-inspiring Great Wall of China. The stop only scratches the surface of the more than 4,000-mile long series of structures, known as the Great Wall, that has stood since the fifth or sixth century BC and is visible from outer space. Visitors can, too, experience the mystery of the Forbidden City, located in the heart of Beijing. Beijing is also a bastion of Asian life, culture, entertainment and fare. From Asia, this fortunate band of executive jet charter travelers heads to the Land Down Under stopping in Cairns, Queensland, Australia. By boat, the sightseers travel to the Great Barrier Reef where they may enjoy by snorkel or simply from the boat the 400 types of coral, 1,500 kinds of fish and 4,000 species of mollusk that inhabit the reef. The reef is also home to the endangered sea cow and large green sea turtle, according to UNESCO. Cairns offers one-of-a-kind shops, restaurants and other unique activities.After a few days in Cairns, it's back to the Western Hemisphere by way of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil Feb. 21, to experience one of the most breathtaking displays of modern spirituality, the Christ the Redeemer statue atop Corcovado Mountain in Tijuca Forest National Park, nearly half a mile above the city. The reinforced concrete and soapstone statue was completed in 1931 after half a decade of construction. It stands 130 feet high and its outstretched arms measure 92 feet from fingertip to fingertip. It is visible for 20 miles and weighs approximately 2 million pounds.And, as Paramount Seven Wonders travelers enjoy the Catholic landmark, they can also experience the Brazilian pre-lent celebration known as Carnival. Perhaps the largest, most exuberant and outlandish celebration in the world, Carnival makes New Orleans' Mardi Gras look like a child's birthday party. It is a collage of world-class entertainment, celebrations of life and good-spirited decadence.On February 26, the trip ends where it started, on a luxurious flight back to JFK airport in New York."This may be the most memorable, extravagant and exotic trip ever offered by a private jet charter company," Zaher said. To book a spot on Paramount Business Jets' Seven Wonders of the World vacation today, elite travelers should call 877-727-2538. Those interested should remember that this opportunity is available to only 16 people on a first-come, first-serve basis. Paramount Business JetsThe interior of the 737 Boeing Business Jet offers lavish amenities, including a full shower, bar, conference areas and plenty of lounging space. It is the perfect vessel to chauffer participants in Paramount Business Jets' Seven Wonders of the World adventure around the globe.

Exploretimor/Dreamstime.comThe Coliseum in Rome, Italy attracts visitors from all over the world who wish to witness one of man's greatest feasts of architecture. The Coliseum served as a center for public spectacles and bloody gladiator matches in ancient Rome. It is the first stop on Paramount Business Jets' Seven Wonders of the World mega-tour.

Mikolaj Duraj/Dreamstime.comThe architecture and engineering of the pyramids of Giza Egypt continue to inspire the imaginations of millions of people around the world. Giza is the second stop on the Seven Wonders trip. Ashwin Kharidehal Abhirama/Dreamstime.comBuilt between 1631 and 1648, Taj Mahal has been deemed "the jewel of Muslim art in India and one of the universally admired masterpieces of the world's heritage" by UNESCO. The Taj Mahal is the fourth stop on the Seven Wonders vacation.

2008 Al Bawaba (www.albawaba.com)

Credit: By Al-Bawaba Reporters

Publication title: Al Bawaba; London

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 11, 2008

Publisher: Albawaba (London) Ltd.

Place of publication: London

Country of publication: United Kingdom, London

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--Jordan

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 194802121

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/194802121?accountid=4840

Copyright: ((C) 2008 All rights reserved. Albawaba.com)

Last updated: 2017-11-07

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 306 of 313

Spare Times: For Children

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Dec 11, 2008.

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Abstract:

FOR CHILDREN.

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Full text:

‘LATKES AND APPLESAUCE’

Hanukkah may be celebrated for eight full nights and have an army of heroes in its history, but the number of annual stage extravaganzas devoted to it is nowhere near as robust. No one goes to Radio City Music Hall for a spectacular about the Festival of Lights.

Sean Hartley has filled that gap, albeit on a more modest scale. A few years ago Mr. Hartley, artistic director of the Poppy Seed Players, the resident theater troupe at the Kaufman Center, commissioned some 20 composers and lyricists to write scenes about Hanukkah. He and Michael Scheman culled the best for “Latkes and Applesauce: A Hanukkah Revue,” part of Kaufman’s Family Matinee series.

“Someone summed it up as ‘Saturday Night Live’ does Hanukkah, but rated PG,” said Mr. Scheman, the production’s director and one of its writers. The interactive show, for ages 4 and older, features the Kaufman Kids, a children’s chorus, and some scenes call for young volunteers.

As a recent rehearsal demonstrated, “Latkes” treats the holiday with heart and humor. Three scenes of “Hanukkah Idol” feature cast members auditioning for an “American Idol”-type show by singing “I Had a Little Dreidel” as gospel, torch song and operatic aria. Another running gag features boys, one Jewish and one Christian, trying to understand each other’s observances. When the gentile hears of Judah Maccabee, the ancient Jewish leader, he responds, “He’s Irish?”

And the show roasts at least one holiday chestnut on an open fire: “A Hanukkah Hymn,” by Mr. Hartley and Sam Davis, stars Jason Robinson, above, as Ezraneezer, a miserly delicatessen owner whose response to the season is “Hanukkah, feh!” Only encounters with the ghost of his dead partner (Jonathan Todd Ross) and other spirits and villagers (Christina Bianco, Steve Pacek and Lesley Blumenthal) can teach him the festival’s true meaning.

Mr. Hartley said he liked the revue format because “we can change it every year.” This script includes a highly topical 2008 reference. Hint: One number is “The Only Jew in Juneau, Alaska.” (Sunday and Dec. 21 at 11 a.m., Merkin Concert Hall, 129 West 67th Street, Manhattan, 212-501-3330, kaufman-center.org; $20.)

FOR CHILDREN

‘ABOVE THE BELT’ (Sunday) Despite the title, this show has nothing to do with boxing, although you will see a lot of floating like a butterfly. An aerial showcase, it’s a 90-minute presentation that includes performers working on trapeze, rope, lyra (a hoop) and silk (a length of fabric). Expect to spend a lot of time looking up. At 7 p.m., Zipper Factory Tavern, 336 West 37th Street, Manhattan, (212) 352-3101, thezipperfactory.com; $20; $10 for ages 12 and under.

‘ADVENTURES WITH DORA AND DIEGO’ (Friday through Sunday, and Tuesday through Thursday) The young Latino stars of the Nickelodeon animated television series “Dora the Explorer” and “Go, Diego, Go!” have taken their expeditions into new territory at the Children’s Museum of Manhattan, whose exhibition has separate Dora and Diego environments, including Diego’s Animal Rescue Center and Dora’s Fiesta. Intended for ages 2 to 6, the interactive, bilingual displays are designed to teach language, science and music skills, as well as facts about Latin America. From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., the Tisch Building, 212 West 83rd Street, (212) 721-1223, cmom.org. Free with museum admission: $10; $7 for 65+; free for under 1 and members.

AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY (Friday through Thursday) Creatures that creep, crawl, slither and even swim are definitely the museum’s stars. The popular 2006 exhibition “Lizards & Snakes: Alive!” has returned, with more than 60 breathing (and hissing) examples, from five continents. (Through Jan. 5.) The museum is also showing the Imax film “Sea Monsters: A Prehistoric Adventure” every hour on the half-hour from 10:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Its subject is not the monsters of myth but very real species, like Dolichorhynchops and Styxosaurus, which swam the oceans while T. rex walked the earth. Open daily, 10 a.m. to 5:45 p.m., at Central Park West and 79th Street, (212) 769-5200, amnh.org. Tickets to the special exhibition or Imax films (includes museum admission): $24; $18 for students and 60+; $14 for 12 and younger.

‘ARCHAEOLOGY ZONE: DISCOVERING TREASURES FROM PLAYGROUNDS TO PALACES’ (Sunday through Thursday) Children will step into the shoes of an explorer like Indiana Jones in this exhibition at the Jewish Museum, but the adventures will be purely scholarly. Still, there is plenty of excitement in analyzing artifacts like a jar handle, a clay jug and a bangle and figuring out the purpose behind ancient pieces like a Greek helmet and a bull-shaped vessel. This interactive show also includes a recreated room from the Ottoman period (about 1900), where young archaeologists can dress in costume. (Through June 15, 2009.) Sunday through Wednesday, 11 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.; Thursday to 8 p.m., 1109 Fifth Avenue, at 92nd Street, (212) 423-3200, thejewishmuseum.org. Free with admission: $12; $10 for 65+; $7.50 for students; free for under 12 and members.

‘BABES IN TOYLAND’ (Saturday) The Little Orchestra Society is celebrating the 150th birthday of this holiday classic with an appropriate present: the world premiere of a new version, featuring an updated book and lyrics and additional toys, including an evil, Transformers-style robot. Craig Shermin has adapted the story, making Toyland a store whose business is failing until some mysterious — and perhaps not so benevolent — investors bail it out. Part of the Happy Concerts for Young People series, for ages 6 to 12, the show still revolves around Victor Herbert’s famous score. At 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., Avery Fisher Hall, Lincoln Center, (212) 971-9500, littleorchestra.org; $10 to $50.

‘BEAUTY AND THE BEAST’ (Saturday and Sunday) The story may be “a tale as old as time,” but many children today probably believe that Disney invented it. Literally Alive Children’s Theater has revived its musical version, with book and lyrics by Brenda Bell, which adheres more closely to the original story, restoring the heroine’s two selfish sisters. The show doesn’t have any debonair Frenchmen or motherly cooks masquerading as household paraphernalia, but it does have a sense of humor and hummable tunes by Mark McGee. (Through Dec. 30.) A preshow art workshop begins one hour before each show. At 11 a.m., the Players Theater, 115 Macdougal Street, Greenwich Village, (212) 352-3101, literallyalive.com; $25; $20 for children; $5 for the workshop, which is free for adults.

BIG MOVIES FOR LITTLE KIDS (Monday) This series is intended to introduce small children (though all ages are welcome) to classic films. And this one is perfect for the season: the 1966 version of “How the Grinch Stole Christmas,” capturing the spirit of Dr. Seuss rather than the spirit of Hollywood. It’s animated by none other than Chuck Jones and narrated by Boris Karloff, here to cheer children, not scare them. At 4 p.m., Cobble Hill Cinemas, 265 Court Street, at Butler Street, Brooklyn, (718) 596-4995, bigmoviesforlittlekids.blogspot.com; $6.50.

‘BLIZZARD THE WIZARD’ (Sunday) What would a blizzard be like without snow? Well, lonely for starters. That’s how Blizzard the Wizard feels when he awakens one day to find that his crystalline companion has vanished. In this one-man show from Urban Stages, Dan Kitrosser, who wrote the script with Andrew Davies, takes children 3 to 10 on a humorous journey to solve the mystery (and learn a little about global warming). (Through Jan. 18.) At 2 p.m., 259 West 30th Street, Manhattan, (212) 695-5131; $10.

B.Y.O.K. (Sunday) Once people become parents, they often leave their B.Y.O.B. days behind. Now 92YTriBeCa, a new satellite of the 92nd Street Y, is offering the perfect substitute: B.Y.O.K., or Bring Your Own Kid. As the title implies, this series is devoted to cross-generational fun. And so on Sunday it will present Steve Roslonek, a k a SteveSongs, a k a Mr. Steve, the new music teacher on the television programming block PBS Kids. But whatever you call him, he and his band offer rock that is intended to please all ages. At 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., 200 Hudson Street, at Canal Street, (212) 601-1000, 92ytribeca.org/BYOK; $15.

‘A CHILD’S CHRISTMAS IN WALES’ (Friday through Sunday, and Wednesday and Thursday) That child was Dylan Thomas, and young theatergoers are invited to share his holiday memories in this production by the Irish Repertory Theater. In addition to experiencing an old-fashioned Christmas from this poet’s perspective, audiences will hear a variety of seasonal songs. (Through Jan. 4.) Friday and Thursday at 8 p.m.; Saturday and Wednesday at 3 and 8 p.m.; Sunday at 3 p.m.; 132 West 22nd Street, Chelsea, (212) 727-2737; $60 and $55; $20 for ages 16 and under.

‘CRYSTAL WINTER’ (Saturday and Sunday) The kind of science that is Jack Frost’s specialty is the subject of this annual program and display, which includes a giant snow globe, workshops and demonstrations involving crystals, and two theater productions: “Snow Flake Bentley: The Search for Snow,” for school-age children, and “Hey Snow, Where Do You Go?,” a puppet show for preschoolers about a little snowflake that’s afraid to fall. (Through Jan. 4.) From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th Street, Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, Queens, (718) 699-0005, nyscience.org. Fees for some activities, but most are free with admission: $11; $8 for 2 through 17, students and 62+; free for under 2. Free to all on Sunday from 10 to 11 a.m.

‘DEAR EDWINA’ (Friday through Sunday) What if Ann Landers had been a child — and she could sing? Then she might have been Edwina Spoonapple, the young heroine of this new musical by Zina Goldrich and Marcy Heisler (“Junie B. Jones”). Edwina is an advice columnist who delivers her counsel tunefully, with the help of her friends, and this show details her quest to be in a festival. (Through Jan. 25.) Friday at 5 and 7 p.m.; Saturday at 1, 4 and 7 p.m.; Sunday at 1 and 4 p.m.; DR2 Theater, 103 East 15th Street, Manhattan, (212) 239-6200, dearedwina.com; $39.

‘THE ELVES AND THE SHOEMAKER’ (Saturday and Sunday) Would Cinderella have been better able to escape the ball if she had had athletic sneakers instead of glass slippers? She stops by the shoemaker for a pair in Kristin Walter’s witty adaptation of this fairy tale classic for ages 4 and older, presented by Manhattan Children’s Theater and populated by figures from other stories and rhymes, as well as by its industrious title characters. (Through Jan. 4.) At noon and 2 p.m., 52 White Street, near Church Street, TriBeCa, (212) 352-3101, theatermania.com; $20.

‘HOUSE ABOUT IT’ (Friday through Sunday, and Tuesday through Thursday) This exhibition gives new meaning to playing house. Created by the Staten Island Children’s Museum, the show, whose centerpiece is a child-size house under construction, introduces young visitors to all aspects of the building trades. Activity stations include an architect’s office, a space to examine foundation materials and a workbench to practice sawing and drilling. The house offers opportunities for tiling and shingling, and a dollhouse lets young decorators ponder fabrics and furnishings. At 1000 Richmond Terrace, Livingston, (718) 273-2060, statenislandkids.org. Hours: Friday, and Tuesday through Thursday, noon to 5 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free with admission: $5; free for members.

‘JACOB MARLEY’S CHRISTMAS’ (Saturday and Sunday) Tired of seeing Scrooge get all the attention? This version of “A Christmas Carol” stars Marley, Scrooge’s dead partner, who sets the whole night in motion and illustrates the awful fate of unrepentant misers. Narrated by Joseph Lofredo and starring Joe Smith, the 90-minute show unfolds in the auditorium of the Staten Island Zoo. At 3 p.m., 614 Broadway, Willowbrook, (718) 442-3100, statenislandzoo.org. Free with admission: $7; $5 for 60+; $4 for ages 3 through 14; free for under 3.

KIDS ‘N COMEDY (Sunday) The class clown gets applause, not detention, at this series, in which comics ages 13 to 18 perform stand-up. The shows are recommended for children 9 and older, but there’s no need to worry about appropriateness (profanity is banned) or knock-knock jokes. (These dudes are sophisticated.) At 1 p.m., Gotham Comedy Club, 208 West 23rd Street, Chelsea; $15, with a one-soda minimum. Reservations required: (212) 877-6115, kidsncomedy.com.

‘KIDS & YIDDISH: PUTTIN’ ON THE SCHMALTZ’ (Sunday) The Village People meet the Chosen People in this annual holiday revue by the National Yiddish Theater — Folksbiene, which combines sendups of popular culture with lighthearted instruction in Yiddish. The show, centering this year on food and family, always involves children, both onstage and in the audience. (Through Jan. 4.) Sundays at 11 a.m., the Jewish Community Center in Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Avenue, at 76th Street, (800) 595-4849, ticketcentral.com; $20; $17 for 12 and under.

‘THE KLEZMER NUTCRACKER’ (Saturday and Sunday) “The Nutcracker” may be a traditional Christmas story, but in this musical from Vital Children’s Theater, it acquires a Jewish slant and sound. With a book by Ellen Kushner and music by the Shirim Klezmer Orchestra, the show centers on Sara, whose mysterious aunt gives her a magical golden dreidel at the family Hanukkah party. (Through Jan. 3.) At 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., 2162 Broadway, at 76th Street, fourth floor, (212) 579-0528, vitaltheatre.org; $20.

‘LOWER EAST SIDE FAMILY REUNION’ (Sunday) Communities, generations and even the past and the present will combine at this event, celebrating the first anniversary of the restoration of the landmark Eldridge Street Synagogue. Highlighting the Jewish immigrant experience, the day will include the opportunity to make a family tree and to create a book based on an oral history taken from a grandparent or other adult. Yiddish lessons, klezmer and storytelling are also scheduled. From 1 to 4 p.m., the Museum at Eldridge Street Synagogue, 12 Eldridge Street, between Canal and Division Streets, Lower East Side, (212) 219-0302 eldridgestreet.org; free.

‘MONKEY KING: JOURNEY TO THE WEST’ (Saturday) Two travels will be documented in this event: that of Monkey King, the mischievous hero of Chinese folklore, who is sent on a long mission by the Buddha in the 16th-century epic that bears his name, and that of the storyteller Diane Wolkstein, who went to Taiwan with the choreographer Sat Hon to research the tale. Ms. Wolkstein will show a film based on her trip, and perform the story with Mr. Hon and Chinese children assisting. At 3 p.m., University Settlement, 184 Eldridge Street, at Rivington Street, Lower East Side; $7. Reservations requested: (212) 453-4532, or via e-mail to project.audience@gmail.com.

‘THE NUTCRACKER’ (Friday through Sunday) Children who aren’t ready for a full serving of the Land of the Sweets and the other confections of “The Nutcracker” may enjoy this low-calorie version: it’s just an hour and geared especially to ages 2 to 11. Presented by New York Theater Ballet, the show features professional adult dancers and students from the company’s school. (Through Dec. 21.) Friday at 10 a.m.; Saturday and Sunday at 11 a.m. and 1 and 3:30 p.m.; Gould Hall, 55 East 59th Street, Manhattan, (212) 355-6160, nytb.org; $30; $25 for children.

‘PETER & THE WOLF’ (Saturday through Tuesday) Prokofiev’s classic may seem to be common children’s fare at this time of year, but there’s nothing ordinary about this version. Given its world premiere last year as part of the Guggenheim Museum’s Works & Process series, this production combines performing arts with sets by renowned artists. This year the museum commissioned Fernando and Humberto Campana, Brazilian brothers specializing in recycled materials. Isaac Mizrahi narrates, and George Manahan will conduct the Juilliard Ensemble in the score. Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 and 4 p.m.; Monday and Tuesday at 4 and 5:30 p.m.; Peter B. Lewis Theater, Guggenheim Museum, 1071 Fifth Avenue, at 89th Street, (212) 423-3587, guggenheim.org; $35; $30 for members.

‘PETER PAN AND ADVENTURES IN NEVERLAND’ (Friday through Sunday, and Tuesday through Thursday) New York might seem like a Neverland to many, and it is indeed the setting of Zakiyyah Alexander’s new, Americanized adaptation of J. M. Barrie’s classic. Presented by the Swedish Cottage Marionette Theater as a puppet musical (Daryl Kojak composed the score), it also features a Tiger Lily who’s a native of India. (Through June.) Friday, and Tuesday through Thursday, at 10:30 a.m. and noon (with an additional 2:30 p.m. show on Wednesday); Saturdays and Sundays at 1 p.m.; 79th Street and the West Drive, Central Park; $8; $5 for 18 and under. Reservations required: (212) 988-9093; cityparksfoundation.org.

‘PINKALICIOUS, THE MUSICAL’ (Saturday and Sunday) It’s time to think pink again. This show for ages 4 to 12, from Vital Children’s Theater, is in yet another revival, so if you missed it earlier, you can catch it now at the Bleecker Street Theater. Elizabeth and Victoria Kann have adapted their children’s book, in which the pink-obsessed title character finds out that sometimes being in the pink can be too much of a good thing. (John Gregor wrote the score and some of the lyrics.) At 1 p.m., 45 Bleecker Street, at Lafayette Street, East Village, (212) 239-6200, vitaltheatre.org; $29.50.

‘PLAYING DREIDEL WITH JUDAH MACCABEE’ (Sunday) What would the ancient Jewish leader whose victory is at the heart of Hanukkah think of the contemporary observances of the holiday? A modern boy finds out when he meets the man himself, Judah Maccabee, in this play by Edward Einhorn, presented by Untitled Theater Company #61. Incorporating shadow puppets and live cello music, the show unfolds in eight scenes, corresponding to the eight days of celebrating. (Through Dec. 28.) At 2 p.m., the Looking Glass Theater, 422 West 57th Street, Clinton, (212) 352-3101; $18.

‘PUCELANDIA: A PUSICAL, MUSICAL HOLIDAY SHOW’ (Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday) Many children may not know what puce is — is it even in the crayon box? — but it’s safe to say that it doesn’t appear often on anyone’s favorite-color list. In this musical from Turtle Shell Productions, written by Fran Handman and Sheldon Gartner, it is the only hue allowed in the title kingdom, until someone comes along to restore the season’s real vibrancy. (Through Dec. 28.) Previews on Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday at 1 p.m. and Tuesday at 7 p.m., with the opening on Thursday at 8 p.m.; the Shell Theater, 300 West 43rd Street, fourth floor, Clinton, (212) 352-3101; $20; $15 for those under 15 wearing something that is puce.

‘SEVEN IN ONE BLOW, OR THE BRAVE LITTLE KID’ (Friday through Sunday) In the Grimm fairy tale “The Brave Little Tailor” the title character dispatches seven flies with one swat but allows the gullible public to believe that he has really whacked seven enemies. In its annual holiday production for ages 4 and older, Axis Theater has adapted the story to feature a clever boy who triumphs over adversity, thanks to his wits and a lot of help from audience members, who are asked to shout lines and even sing. (Through Dec. 21.) Fridays at 7 p.m. (this Friday’s performance is a benefit for St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital); Saturdays at 2 and 4 p.m.; Sundays at 2 p.m.; the Axis Theater, 1 Sheridan Square, off Seventh Avenue, (212) 352-3101, axiscompany.org; $10; $5 for children.

‘SNOW COMES IN MANY COLORS’ (Sunday) Snow may not literally come in many colors, but people do, and living harmoniously among all of them is the message behind this holiday production, presented by Dr. Glory’s Youth Theater. Featuring dance, drama and song, the show was created by Dr. Glory Van Scott, a former principal dancer with the Katherine Dunham Company. At 2 p.m., Riverside Theater, 91 Claremont Avenue, at 120th Street, Morningside Heights, (212) 870-6784, riversidetheater .org; free.

SOCIETY OF YOUNG MAGICIANS (Saturday) Even high-tech medical scanners can’t read your thoughts, but these performers, ages 9 to 16, claim they can, and they will try to prove it in a hospital setting. Other tricks planned for the show, a benefit for Mount Sinai Medical Center, include predicting cards to be chosen from a deck and manipulating an endless stream of water. At 2 p.m., Goldwurm Auditorium, Icahn Building, 1425 Madison Avenue, at 98th Street, (212) 280-2703; $10.

TENNIS LESSONS (Saturdays and Sundays) Aspiring Venus Williamses and Andy Roddicks can get into the swing of things long before summer at this free program, sponsored by the New York Junior Tennis League. Open to children ages 6 through 18, the sessions, held in all five boroughs through March, include not only tennis instruction but also special events and a concluding tournament. Tennis equipment is available for loan; parents must register their children onsite. More information and a full list of locations: (347) 417-8157, nyjtl.org.

‘THEATRESPORTS’ (Sunday) It may involve actors, but it’s still an athletic event: the members of Freestyle Repertory Theater, an improv troupe, break up into two teams and perform skits based on suggestions from the audience. Children attending not only vote on the outcome but also participate onstage. At noon, Gallery Players, 199 14th Street, Park Slope, Brooklyn, (718) 595-0547, Ext. 6, galleryplayers .com; $8 for children; free for adults.

‘THE TORTOISE & THE HARE’S HOLIDAY HOOP-LA!’ (Friday through Sunday) Aesop is combined with contemporary cheer in Denise Devin’s holiday musical for ages 3 and older. In addition to the title characters the show, from the Limecat Family Theater Company, features snowflakes, hum-bugs and even dancing matzo balls, as Terri Tortoise and Harry Hare race to Animal Lands Holiday Hoop-La. (Through Jan. 4.) Friday at 7 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday at 2 and 4 p.m.; St. Luke’s Theater, 308 West 46th Street, Clinton, (212) 239-6200, limecat.homestead.com; $20 and $40.

‘A VILLAGE OF FOOLS’ (Sunday) These fools were created by Isaac Bashevis Singer, so you know they’re going to deliver fun. Stephen Ringold has adapted two of Singer’s stories about Chelm, that mythical, silly village, for this production by the Grand Falloons. For ages 6 and older, the show includes life-size puppets and original music. At 2 p.m., the Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Avenue, at 92nd Street, (212) 423-3337, thejewishmuseum.org; $15; $10 for children; $12 and $8 for family-level members.

WINTER CELEBRATION (Saturday and Sunday) The U.S.S. Intrepid is docking at the North Pole this weekend, at least in spirit, as the ship turned museum presents a two-day carnival devoted to the holidays. Families can enjoy workshops in making tree ornaments, gingerbread, menorahs and snow globes, as well as entertainment that includes storytelling and caroling. Saturday from 11:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.; Sunday from noon to 3 p.m.; the Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum, Pier 86, 46th Street and 12th Avenue, Clinton, (212) 245-0072, intrepidmuseum.org. Free with museum admission: $19.50; $15.50 for 62+, veterans and college students; $14.50 for 6 to 17; $7.50 for 2 to 5; free for under 2, retired and active-duty military and members.

Subject: Families & family life; Parks & recreation areas; Archaeology; Theater; Musicians & conductors; Books; Museums; Singers; Hanukkah

Identifier / keyword: Christmas Children and Youth Graeber, Laurel Zipper Factory Manhattan (NYC) Nickelodeon Herbert, Victor JEWS Latin America Theater Bell, Brenda Art Families and Family Life Children's Museum of Manhattan CENTRAL PARK (NYC) Music Television American Museum of Natural History Greece Geisel, Theodor Seuss GREENWICH VILLAGE (NYC) Jones, Chuck Imax Corp Tennis Karloff, Boris JEWISH MUSEUM Hollywood (Calif) Synagogues COBBLE HILL (NYC) Museums Little Orchestra Society Davies, Andrew Brooklyn (NYC) Christmas Trees Thomas, Dylan Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts Disney, Walt, Co Wales Landers, Ann Dancing Players Theater Snow and Snowstorms SMITH, JOE CHELSEA (NYC) Urban Stages Queens (NYC) Oceans Wolkstein, Diane Stars and Galaxies Mizrahi, Isaac Ninety-Second Street Y TRIBECA (NYC) Staten Island (NYC) Public Broadcasting Service Manahan, George Lewis, Peter B Richmond (Va) Irish Repertory Theater New York Hall of Science Amsterdam (Netherlands) Barrie, James Matthew DR2 Theatre LOWER EAST SIDE (NYC) Einhorn, Edward Taiwan Handman, Fran CHILDREN'S MUSEUM Village People Brazil Dunham, Katherine New York State Folksbiene Yiddish Theater Williams, Venus Sweden Singer, Isaac Bashevis Jewish Community Cen ter Ringold, Stephen India Museum at Eldridge Street Journey EAST VILLAGE (NYC) PARK SLOPE (NYC) New York Theater Ballet Louisiana Guggenheim, Solomon R, Museum North Pole Street Theater Looking Glass Theater Turtle Shell Productions St Jude Children's Research Hospital Society of Young Magicians Mount Sinai Medical Center New York Junior Tennis League Freestyle Repertory Theater St Luke's Theater Intrepid Sea-Air-Space Museum

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publicationdate: Dec 11, 2008

Section: arts

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2220849774

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2220849774?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-07

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 307 of 313

Quincy Jones to Deliver Keynote Address at SXSW Music Conference

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: Wireless News ; Jacksonville (Dec 14, 2008).

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Among [Quincy Jones]' current and upcoming projects include the recently released book "The Complete Quincy Jones: My Journey and Passions," a feature film documentary on Brazil's annual Carnival Festival which will benefit the victims of Hurricane Katrina and Brazil's impoverished Favelas, a bio-pic mini-series on jazz great Louis Armstrong, a duets album with Tony Bennett and Stevie Wonder, and a tribute album of his recordings featuring artists such as Usher, John Legend and Amy...

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:  

WIRELESS NEWS-December 14, 2008-Quincy Jones to Deliver Keynote Address at SXSW Music Conference (C)2008 10Meters - http://www.10meters.com

A longtime humanitarian who produced and conducted the historic "We Are The World" recording benefitting Ethiopian famine relief, Jones is expected to discuss the power of music to influence and create positive change in the world and the responsibility of the artist to use their craft to bring people together for the betterment of mankind.

Among Jones' current and upcoming projects include the recently released book "The Complete Quincy Jones: My Journey and Passions," a feature film documentary on Brazil's annual Carnival Festival which will benefit the victims of Hurricane Katrina and Brazil's impoverished Favelas, a bio-pic mini-series on jazz great Louis Armstrong, a duets album with Tony Bennett and Stevie Wonder, and a tribute album of his recordings featuring artists such as Usher, John Legend and Amy Winehouse, among others. He is also planning a chain of nightclub-restaurants based on his album Q's Jook Joint, with the first slated to open in Las Vegas in 2009.

The South By Southwest Music & Media Conference takes place March 18 - 22, 2009 at the Austin Convention Center in Austin, Texas. Quincy Jones' keynote anchors four days of panels, interviews, workshops, peer meetings and the trade show exhibition covering a wide variety of topics, addressing the concerns and interests of musicians, executives and music lovers. Daytime events flow into the music festival, which showcases over 1700 acts on stages throughout downtown Austin.

((Comments on this story may be sent to newsdesk@closeupmedia.com))

((Distributed via M2 Communications Ltd - http://www.m2.com))

Publication title: Wireless News; Jacksonville

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 14, 2008

Publisher: Close-Up Media, Inc.

Place of publication: Jacksonville

Country of publication: United States, Jacksonville

Publication subject: Communications

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 210290449

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/210290449?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright M2 Communications Ltd. 2008)

Last updated: 2015-04-12

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection; SciTech Premium Collection

Document 308 of 313

December 14, 2008 (Page 15 of 187)

Publication info: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010) ; Fort Myers, Florida [Fort Myers, Florida]14 Dec 2008: 15.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: Fort Myers News-Press (1931-2010); Fort Myers, Florida

Volume: 124

Issue: 353

First page: 15

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 14, 2008

Publisher: Gannett Co., Inc.

Place of publication: Fort Myers, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Myers, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2225833437

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2225833437?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Gannett Co., Inc. Dec 14, 2008

Last updated: 2019-05-16

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 309 of 313

New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival 2009 lineup released

Author: Anonymous

Publication info: New Orleans CityBusiness ; Metairie (Dec 16, 2008): n/a.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

The Dave Matthews Band, Aretha Franklin, Bonnie Raitt, James Taylor, Joe Cocker and Earth, Wind & Fire are among performers scheduled for the 2009 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.

The lineup for the 2009 event, will mark's the 40th anniversary of the fest, was announced today.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

The Dave Matthews Band, Aretha Franklin, Bonnie Raitt, James Taylor, Joe Cocker and Earth, Wind & Fire are among performers scheduled for the 2009 New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival.

The lineup for the 2009 event, will mark's the 40th anniversary of the fest, was announced today.

The full lineup:

First weekend:Wynton Marsalis, Dave Matthews Band, James Taylor, Joe Cocker, Earth Wind & Fire, Wilco, Spoon, Erykah Badu, Irma Thomas, Orishas, Third World, Robert Cray, Etta James & the Roots Band, Mavis Staples, Drive-By Truckers featuring Booker T. Jones, Johnny Winter, Pete Seeger, Hugh Masekela, Better Than Ezra, Sharon Jones & the Dap Kings, Galactic, Roy Haynes, Pete Fountain, Avett Brothers, Kinky, Roy Rogers, Del McCoury Band, Terence Blanchard, Marc Broussard, DJ Jubilee with 5th Ward Weebie and Ms. Tee, Buckwheat Zydeco's 30th Anniversary featuring The Hitchhikers, Tab Benoit, Locos por Juana, Trombone Shorty, Lincoln Center Jazz Orchestra, Yacub Addy and Odadaa of Ghana, Rebirth Brass Band Reunion with Kermit Ruffins, Ivan Neville & Dumpstaphunk, Big Sam's Funky Nation, Terrance Simien & the Zydeco Experience, Amanda Shaw & the Cute Guys, Donald Harrison, The Anointed Jackson Sisters, Tribute to Mahalia Jackson featuring Irma Thomas, Mavis Staples, and Pamela Landrum, Chris Smither, Henry Butler, Papa Grows Funk, Robert Mirabal, Harlem Blues & Jazz Band, Rockin' Dopsie Jr. & the Zydeco Twisters, Sonny Landreth, Benjy Davis Project, The Vettes, Mem Shannon & the Membership, Stephanie Jordan, Warren Storm, Willie Tee and Cypress featuring Tommy McLain and T K Hulin, Astral Project, Ladysmith Redlions of South Africa, Don Vappie & the Creole Jazz Serenaders, Amammereso Agofomma of Ghana, The Dixie Cups, Chubby Carrier & the Bayou Swamp Band, Germaine Bazzle, John Mooney & Bluesiana, Marlon Jordan, Tabby Thomas, Spencer Bohren, Savoy Music Center of Eunice Saturday Cajun Jam, Dew Drop Inn Revisited hosted by Deacon John featuring Wanda Rouzan, Eddie Bo, Allen Toussaint, Robert Parker, and Al "Carnival Time" Johnson, Paul Sanchez & the Rolling Road Show, Wayne Toups & Zydecajun, Leroy Jones presents the Fairview Brass Band Reunion Tribute to Danny Barker, Bruce Daigrepont, Vivaz!, Pfister Sisters' 30th Anniversary, Gringo do Choro, Dr. Michael White & the Original Liberty Jazz Band, Thais Clark, Big Chief Monk Boudreaux & the Golden Eagles Mardi Gras Indians, Henry Gray & the Cats, Joe Krown, Walter "Wolfman" Washington & Russell Batiste Jr., Lil' Buck Sinegal Blues Band, EOE, Ebony Hillbillies, Crescent City Allstars featuring James Andrews, Hot 8 Brass Band, Schatzy, Jake Smith, 19th Street Red Blues Band, Brasilliance!, Mighty Chariots of Fire, Sharde Thomas & the Rising Star Fife & Drum Band, Chris Owens, Topsy Chapman, New Bumpers' Revival Jazz Band of France, Zulu Male Ensemble, Jo "Cool" Davis, Leah Chase, Herlin Riley, Roderick Paulin, Mahogany Brass Band, Ingrid Lucia, MyNameisJonMichael, Texas Johnny Brown & the Quality Blues Band, Rockie Charles & the Stax of Love, AsheSon, Jim McCormick, Lil' Malcolm & the House Rockers, Dwayne Dopsie & the Zydeco Hellraisers, Thomas "Big Hat" Fields & his Foot Stompin' Zydeco Band, Guitar Slim, Jr., Storyville Stompers Brass Band, Willis Prudhomme & Zydeco Express, Lost Bayou Ramblers, Waterseed, Creole Wild West Mardi Gras Indians, DJ Hektik & the New Orleans Society of Dance with Freedia and Nobi, Tipsy Chicks, Jonno Frishberg & Bayou DeVille, Christian Serpas & Ghost Town, Kumbuka African Drum and Dance Collective, NewBirth Brass Band, High Ground Drifters Bluegrass Band, New Orleans Night Crawlers Brass Band, Hadley Castille & the Sharecropper Band, Carrollton Hunters and Cherokee Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, Big Steppers, Furious Five, and Untouchables SAPCs, Patrice Fisher & Arpa featuring special guests from Brazil, Clive Wilson's New Orleans Serenaders featuring Butch Thompson, Young Tuxedo Brass Band, Betty Winn & One A-Chord, McDonogh #35 High School Gospel Choir, Sophisticated Ladies featuring Barbara Shorts, Leslie Smith, Cindy Scott, and Judy Spellman, Golden Comanche and Seminoles Mardi Gras Indians, N.O.C.C.A. Jazz Ensemble, Real Untouchables Brass Band, Olympia Aid, New Look & First Division SAPCs, New Orleans Jazz Vipers, Tommy Sancton, Society Brass Band, Connie Jones, St. Joseph the Worker Music Ministry, UNO Jazz Combo, June Gardner & the Fellas, New Orleans Spiritualettes, Smitty Dee's Brass Band, Kid Simmons' Local International Allstars, Semolian Warriors, Comanche Hunters, and Golden Star Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, Louisiana Repertory Jazz Ensemble, Tyronne Foster & the Arc Singers, Loyola University Jazz Ensemble, Franklin Avenue B.C. Mass Choir, Small Souljas Brass Band, Val & the Love Alive Fellowship Choir, Single Ladies, Family Ties, Big Nine, and Keep N It Real SAPCs, Second Mount Carmel Gospel Choir, Xavier University Jazz Ensemble, Heritage School of Music Band, Gospel Soul Children, Nine Times Men, Single Men, Dumaine Gang, Divine Ladies, and Lady Jetsetters SAPCs, Red, White & Blue and Wild Mohican Mardi Gras Indians, Reverend Charles Jackson & the Jackson Travelers, Nineveh B.C. Mass Choir, Kid Simmon's Local International Allstars, Voices of St. Peter Claver, David & Roselyn, Grayhawk, Washboard Leo, Red Hot Brass Band, Kayla Woodson & Louisiana Lightnin'

Second weekend:

Aretha Franklin, TBA, Sugarland, Ben Harper and The Relentless 7, Tony Bennett, Kings of Leon, The Neville Brothers, Bonnie Raitt, Common, Emmylou Harris, Dr. John, Buddy Guy, Los Lobos, The O'Jays, Toots & the Maytals, Allen Toussaint, John Mayall, Solomon Burke, Doc Watson, Maze featuring Frankie Beverly, The Whispers, Jakob Dylan, Chuck Brown, Meter Men: Zig, George, and Leo, Kurt Elling, Rance Allen, Cowboy Mouth, Guy Clark, Radiators Aaron Neville, Lil' Ed & the Blues Imperials, Tab Benoit & the Wetland Allstars, Marcia Ball, Ellis Marsalis, Kermit Ruffins & the Barbecue Swingers, Dirty Dozen Brass Band, Poncho Sanchez Latin Jazz Band, Jon Cleary & the Absolute Monster Gentlemen, Frankie Ford, BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet, Mississippi Mass Choir, Walter "Wolfman" Washington & the Roadmasters, Anders Osborne, the subdudes, Esperanza Spalding, Patty Griffin, Deacon John, Chris Thomas King, Kind of Blue @ 50 Tribute to Miles Davis featuring Jimmy Cobb, Wallace Roney, Larry Willis, and Buster Williams, John Scofield & the Piety Street Band, George Wein & the Newport Allstars feat. Randy Brecker, VaShawn Mitchell & Friends, Nicholas Payton, Linda Tillery & the Cultural Heritage Choir, Irvin Mayfield & the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra, Bonerama, Preservation Hall Jazz Band, The Genius of Sidney Bechet: A Tribute featuring Bob Wilber, Dr. Michael White, and Brian "Breeze" Cayolle, Delfeayo Marsalis Quintet, Geno Delafose & French Rockin' Boogie, Nathan & the Zydeco Cha Chas, Theresa Andersson, Cedric Burnside & Lightnin' Malcolm, Bobby Lounge featuring Sarah Quintana, Chieck Hamala Diabate of Mali, The Iguanas, Treme Brass Band, Lars Edegran & the New Orleans Ragtime Orchestra, Lionel Ferbos & the Palm Court Jazz Band, Fredy Omar con su Banda, Rosie Ledet & the Zydeco Playboys, Big Chief Bo Dollis & the Wild Magnolias, Soul Rebels, Steve Riley & the Mamou Playboys, Luther Kent & Trickbag, Banu Gibson's Hot Jazz with Bucky Pizzarelli, Mark Braud, Sunpie & the Louisiana Sunspots, Marva Wright & the BMWs, Kenny Bill Stinson & the Ark-LA-Mystics, Gregg Stafford's Jazz Hounds' Tribute to Danny Barker featuring Juanita Brooks, Eric Lindell, C.J. Chenier & the Red Hot Louisiana Band, Rumba Buena, Roddie Romero & the Hub City Allstars, Charmaine Neville Band, Eddie Bo, Ori Danse Club of Benin, Crocodile Gumboot Dancers of South Africa, Rotary Downs, George French & the New Orleans Storyville Jazz Band, Walter Payton & File Gumbo, Dash Rip Rock, John Boutte, Sonny Bourg & the Bayou Blues Band, Johnny Sketch & the Dirty Notes, Sherman Robertson, Honey Island Swamp Band, The Revealers, I'Voire Spectacle featuring Seguenon Kone, Alex McMurray, 101 Runners, Midnite Disturbers, Paulin Brothers Brass Band, Big Chief Peppy & the Golden Arrows Mardi Gras Indians, D.L. Menard & the Louisiana Aces, James Rivers Movement, Otra, Tony Green's Gypsy Jazz, New Orleans Klezmer Allstars, John Rankin, Betsy McGovern & the Poor Clares, Kenny Neal, Lil' Brian & the Travelers, Jeremy Davenport, Keith Frank & the Soileau Zydeco Band, Jamal Batiste & the Jam-Allstars, Ensemble Fatien feat. Seguenon Kone, Dr. Michael White, and Jason Marsalis, Sharon Martin, St. Louis Slim, Bryan Lee & the Blues Power Band, TBC Brass Band, Lady Rollers, Original C.T.C., and Nine Times Ladies SAPCs, Feufollet, War Chief Juan & Young Fire and White Cloud Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, New Orleans Bingo! Show, David Egan, Kidd Jordan-Al Fielder & the IAQ, Drew Landry Band, Driskill Mountain Boys, Jumpin' Johnny Sansone, Washboard Chaz, Bamboula 2000, Danza, Marisa y Mariachi Agave, J. Monque'D Blues Band, Cedric Watson, Twangorama, Higher Heights, Tim Laughlin, Elysian Fieldz, Percussion Inc., Pinettes Brass Band, Scene Boosters, Old N Nu Fellas, Secondline Jammers, and Ladies of Unity SAPCs, Little Freddie King Blues Band, Glen David Andrews, Po' Henry & Tookie, Sherman Washington & the Zion Harmonizers, Culu Children's Traditional African Dance Ensemble, Paky Saavedra's Bandido, New Orleans Mardi Gras Indian Rhythm Section, Bob French & the Original Tuxedo Jazz Band, Shamarr Allen, Free Agents Brass Band, Jambalaya Cajun Band, Benny Grunch & the Bunch, Javier Tobar & Elegant Gypsy, Creole Zydeco Farmers, Bonsoir Catin, Corey Ledet, Gina Brown, Reggie Hall & the Twilighters feat. Lady Bee, Forgotten Souls Brass Band, Young Magnolias, Golden Sioux, and Black Feathers Mardi Gras Indians, New Leviathan Oriental Foxtrot Orchestra, Westbank Steppers, Valley of Silent Men, and Pigeon Town Steppers SAPCs, Doreen's Jazz New Orleans, Truth Universal & Jimi Clever, Shades of Praise Gospel Singers, Brother Tyrone, Lazarus, Berard Family Band, New Orleans Jazz Ramblers, Courtney Bryan Trio, Thelonious Monk Institute of Jazz, DJ Captain Charles, Blodie's Jazz Jam, New Orleans Helsinki Project, Original Last Straws, Chris Clifton, Panorama Jazz Band, Mario Abney, John Lee & the Heralds of Christ, Original Dixieland Jazz Band, Hot Club of New Orleans, The Moonshiners, Clarinet Woodshed feat. Evan Christopher and Gregory Agid, SUBR Jazz Ensemble, Michael Ward, DJ Soul Sister, The Johnson Extension, Black Eagles, Geronimo Hunters, Wild Tchoupitoulas, and Wild Apaches Mardi Gras Indians, Watson Memorial Teaching Ministries, Tulane University Jazz Ensemble, First Emmanuel Baptist Church Choir, Louis Ford & his New Orleans Flairs, Fi Yi Yi & the Mandingo Warriors, Red Hawk, and Black Seminoles Mardi Gras Indians, Leviticus Gospel Choir, Dillard University Jazz Ensemble, Bester Singers and the Dynamic Smooth Family Gospel Singers, Bon Temps Roulez, New Generation, and Undefeated Divas SAPCs, The Electrifying Crownseekers, Pinstripe Brass Band, Ebenezer Baptist Church Mass Choir, Trouble Nation and Ninth Ward Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, Famous Rocks of Harmony, Highsteppers Brass Band, McMain High School Gospel Choir, Voices of Distinction, Gal Holiday, Lyle Henderson & Emmanuel, Coolie Family Gospel Singers, Original Big 7 and Original 4 SAPCs, Tornado Brass Band, Eddie "Chops" Paris, Golden Blade, Wild Red Flame, and Mohawk Hunters Mardi Gras Indians, Morning Star B.C. Mass Choir, New Wave Brass Band, Julio y Cesar Band, First Emmanuel Church Gospel Choir, Greater Antioch Full Gospel B.C. Mass Choir, Roderick Paulin, N'Kafu African Dance Ensemble, Original Prince of Wales and the Original Lady Buckjumpers SAPCs, Johnette Downing, Young Guardians of the Flame, Eric McAllister, N'Fungola Sibo West African Dance Company, Mt. Hermon B.C. Mass Choir.

Credit: CityBusiness Staff

Subject: Jazz; Musicians & conductors; Awards & honors; Musical performances; Blues music; Singers; Secondary schools; Free agency; Baptist churches

Location: New Orleans Louisiana

Product name: Zydeco

Classification: 8306: Schools and educational services

Publication title: New Orleans CityBusiness; Metairie

Pages: n/a

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 16, 2008

Section: News

Publisher: BridgeTower Media Holding Company

Place of publication: Metairie

Country of publication: United States, Metairie

Publication subject: Business And Economics--Small Business

ISSN: 02794527

Source type: Trade Journals

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 209592264

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/209592264?accountid=4840

Copyright: (Copyright 2008 Dolan Media Newswires)

Last updated: 2010-06-08

Database: ABI/INFORM Collection

Document 310 of 313

Beer-Loving Brazilians Adapt to the 'Dry Law'; One of the Hemisphere's Strictest Drunken-Driving Measures Shows Mixed Results

Author: Joshua Partlow - Washington Post Foreign Service

Publication info: The Washington Post ; Washington, D.C. [Washington, D.C]23 Dec 2008: A.8.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

"The culture of Cariocas is bohemian -- they like night life, they like drinking beer," said Cesar Augusto de Castro Jr., a chief inspector with the federal highway police in Rio de Janeiro. In the law's first five months, the number of car accidents on federal highways in Rio de Janeiro state rose 17 percent, compared with the same period in the previous year.

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Full text:

Of all the things you could say to a cop with an automatic weapon after he's pulled you out of the car on the side of the highway at midnight, Isaac Chaves chose: "I've had 15 beers."

And why not? This is Brazil, the land of samba in the streets, beer on the beaches and kiwis in your caipirinha, the place where festivals of debauchery last for days. Drinking isn't a source of shame here. It's part of the daily celebration.

Besides, Chaves, 27, wasn't driving. He never does. He's a lawyer; he knows there are rules, too. "I don't even have a license," he said.

"He likes to drink," said the man behind the wheel that night, Bruno Mendes, 26, an accountant. "A lot."

The important question was whether Mendes had been drinking, because this is the new, more sober Brazil, at least on paper. Six months ago, the government imposed one of the strictest drunken-driving laws in the hemisphere, what people here call the "dry law." Anyone caught driving with a blood alcohol content of .02 percent or higher (compared with .08 in the United States) faces a $400 fine, loss of their license for a year, an impounded vehicle and jail time.

Many welcomed the move, with 35,000 people dying on Brazil's roads each year. Others were skeptical, including many Cariocas, as residents of Rio de Janeiro are known, who said the law was too harsh for the capital of carnival.

"The culture of Cariocas is bohemian -- they like night life, they like drinking beer," said Cesar Augusto de Castro Jr., a chief inspector with the federal highway police in Rio de Janeiro. "This law asks for a behavioral change, and it's hard to change their behavior."

The dry law, introduced in June, hit the country like a cold shower. Police swarmed the streets outside night spots in major cities, setting up sobriety-test checkpoints, handing out fines and seizing licenses. More than 5,000 people have been cited under the law, which joined a measure this year limiting the sale of alcohol along federal highways.

Critics have compared the police crackdown to terrorism. The law has been called authoritarian and unconstitutional, and the restaurant association is working to overturn it. Others have tried to adjust. The city of Sao Paulo added night bus routes to get drinkers home. The Brazilian beer maker AmBev started paying 10 percent of taxi fares for imbibers. Some bars and restaurants began driving customers home, while others strung up hammocks for revelers to sleep off their inebriation.

But it is difficult to say how well the new law is working -- or whether Brazilians' behavior has changed much.

The statistics suggest the roads are no safer than before. In the law's first five months, the number of car accidents on federal highways in Rio de Janeiro state rose 17 percent, compared with the same period in the previous year. Injuries also rose, by 32 percent, although deaths fell by 8 percent, according to police.

Across the country, the picture appeared worse. In those five months, accidents, injuries and deaths on federal highways increased over the previous five months.

Police said they were encouraged by accident figures in the initial weeks. But a problem quickly became apparent: It was difficult to enforce the law without breathalyzers.

"We don't have enough machines to do the tests," said Pedro Paulo Bahia, a spokesman for the federal highway police. "After a few months, people started to realize this."

Bahia estimated that Brazil, home to almost 200 million people, had 900 breathalyzers available. Highway police in Rio de Janeiro state have 13. Although there are plans to get thousands more devices soon, police said the shortage has hamstrung enforcement, particularly in the cities.

Drivers report other problems.

"The police officers would stop people and ask for money, between $200 and $400 depending on how drunk you were," said Antonio Carlos, 68, who has been a taxi driver in Rio for more than 20 years, echoing the complaints of several residents. "The corrupt police officers were getting rich."

For Carlos and his colleagues, however, the law has also been a boon. In Lapa, a Rio neighborhood known for its all-night samba clubs, taxi drivers report increases in business of up to 30 percent in the dry law era.

"I just think people are more afraid now to drink and drive," said taxi driver Vailtom Mira, 41, idling outside a Lapa bar. "The traffic is a sign of that. Before, it would take 40 minutes to go around the block here. On Friday and Saturday nights, nothing moved. Now it's easy to drive around."

At a sidewalk table nearby, Arthur Vianna, 25, said he could appreciate the new law. "I have crashed my car twice. I was drunk. Completely drunk," he said, showing off a scar on his left forearm.

"I stopped for a while drinking and driving. But after two months I did it again, I have to confess," he said. "I don't have a car anymore."

Vianna, a recent medical school graduate, said that shortly after the law went into effect, he noticed a decline in the number of car crash victims coming in to the emergency room. But lately things seem back to normal, he said.

"There is nobody checking anything anymore," said his friend, Ameusca Santos. "You have the law, but nobody's enforcing it."

On the toll bridge between Rio de Janeiro and the city of Niteroi one recent night, the police were intent on changing that. Seven federal highway policemen with bulletproof vests and machine guns had funneled traffic into one lane and were pulling people over for random sobriety tests. But the "blitz," as they call it, was off to a slow start.

When police asked Luciano Soares, a computer graphics professor, to step out of his Fiat for a test, he was less than enthusiastic. "You have in Brazil an expression: 'For the English to see,' " he said. "This law is just a show."

Soares blew into the breathalyzer, which failed to work.

"Breathe deeply and blow really slowly," said Castro, the police officer.

Again, nothing. Castro flipped the machine over, trying to figure out the problem. The professor blew a third time. Finally it registered a reading.

"It's zero," Castro said. "He didn't drink anything."

The next victim showed more potential. Marcos Viera, 36, fumbled his documents and dropped his license on the ground as he stepped from his Chevrolet minivan. A nervous drunk, perhaps? No such luck. Viera blew a zero.

"I don't drink. I don't smoke. I don't have sex. I do nothing," Viera said.

Maybe the problem was timing. It was Wednesday night, approaching midnight. "The best time to come here is Sunday morning. All the drunk people are coming back from Rio," said Marisa Dreys, a police inspector at the checkpoint.

Then Chaves and Mendes drove up. Two young men out for a night on the town. This could be fruitful. The police moved in. But Mendes seemed confident.

"I think this is an excellent law. It makes things safer. There are fewer car crashes. And it's really changed my behavior," he said. "I would normally have a beer or two after work, but tonight I didn't, because I knew I was driving."

Could that all be true?

Chaves, 15 beers deep, wasn't convinced. As the breathalyzer came out, he leaned toward Mendes unsteadily, a cigarette dangling from his fingers. "You really didn't drink anything tonight?" Chaves asked.

"No, I didn't."

"I drank a lot," Chaves said.

Mendes blew a zero. Chaves erupted. "It's a lie. It can't be zero. It's a lie," he shouted to the police with glee. Some friend.

"Brazilians are the biggest beer drinkers in the world!" he said.

The young men headed off for the rest of their evening. They didn't know where they were going.

"Anywhere with beer," Mendes surmised.

And they now knew which highway to avoid, because Mendes might not be so abstemious all evening. "Hopefully we won't see these cops on our way back," he said.

Credit: Washington Post Foreign Service

Subject: Behavior; Roads & highways; Traffic accidents & safety; Police corruption; Legislation; Beer; Liquor laws & regulations; Drunk driving

Location: Brazil

Publication title: The Washington Post; Washington, D.C.

Pages: A.8

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 23, 2008

Dateline: RIO DE JANEIRO, Dec. 22

Section: A SECTION

Publisher: WP Company LLC d/b/a The Washington Post

Place of publication: Washington, D.C.

Country of publication: United States, Washington, D.C.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 01908286

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 410269966

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/410269966?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright The Washington Post Company Dec 23, 2008

Last updated: 2017-11-02

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 311 of 313

Italian Makers of Prosecco Seek Recognition

Publication info: New York Times (Online) , New York: New York Times Company. Dec 26, 2008.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

Italian wineries want to protect their newly popular product’s name, as well as expand sales.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

IN 1984, Fabio Zardetto, chief winemaker at his family-run vineyard in northern Italy, leapt at the chance to become one of the first bottlers to export prosecco, the sparkling wine, to the United States.

At first, his efforts on behalf of his bubbly fizzled. “I had to push people to taste the prosecco,” recalled Mr. Zardetto, now 50. “I would run behind them with a glass saying, ‘Please, taste this.’ ”

When they did try it, he said, they were pleasantly surprised. Sales of Zardetto prosecco grew to 100,000 cases in the United States in 2007, from 50 cases in 1984.

With its fresh flavor, pleasing bubbles and gentle price tag — it typically sells for $10 to $20 a bottle — prosecco has gained many fans worldwide. Global sales have been growing by double-digit percentages for 10 years, to more than 150 million bottles last year. And with consumers in an economizing mood this holiday season, prosecco is an increasingly popular alternative to Champagne, which has been soaring in price.

But prosecco is also encountering some growing pains. From its traditional home in northern Italy, it is now waging a war against outsiders, just as Champagne, its more elite cousin in France, has done for so many years.

A host of producers elsewhere in Italy and as far away as Brazil are trying to cash in on the drink’s newfound popularity. Because prosecco is the name of a grape, like chardonnay or cabernet, anyone can use the name.

Today, about 60 percent of all prosecco — some eight million cases — comes from producers outside the traditional prosecco-growing region of Conegliano-Valdobbiadene, a cluster of villages about a half-hour’s drive north of Venice. The newcomers are not held to the same strict production standards as the traditional producers, which are tightly governed under Italian wine laws.

One product, Rich Prosecco, is made by an Austrian company whose ads feature Paris Hilton. In some, she is naked and spray-painted gold. What’s worse to some producers, the product is sold in a 6.8-ounce can, in gas stations as well as stores, for around $3.

“It’s absolutely vulgar,” says Vittorio Zoppi, marketing manager for the prosecco consortium.

Claus Jahnke, a sales and marketing executive at Rich, says he is puzzled by the reaction to the product, which uses Italian grapes. “We have invested a lot of money in advertising and P.R. to launch Rich and promote prosecco,” he says. “We gave this famous grape a helping hand in conquering the world.”

The Italian winemakers worry that upstarts will weaken prosecco’s image just as it is taking off.

“If everyone around the world plants prosecco, we will lose the value of the name,” says Ludovico Giustiniani, vice president of a consortium that represents about 150 wineries in the traditional prosecco-producing region.

Over months of discussions, the consortium, along with a broader group of growers and producers, has hammered out a plan that would create an official prosecco production zone tied exclusively to northern Italy. Only wine produced in that region could be labeled as prosecco. If the plan is approved by the Italian government — a decision is expected by early 2009 — prosecco would then be eligible for “protected designation of origin” status under European laws intended to protect regional products from Champagne and port to Serrano ham.

“It will let prosecco be an Italian product — and nothing else,” says Giancarlo Moretti Polegato, the owner of Villa Sandi, one of the area’s prominent wineries.

That is the theory, at least. Protection from the European Union would extend only across its 27 member countries, and, as Champagne producers have discovered, a lot of policing is still required.

The Champagne region of France has been officially designated since 1927 as the authentic home of the wine that bears its name, but its trade organization still spends millions of dollars battling producers of items as varied as sparkling wine, bubble bath and bottled water that also use the word.

“We have to spend a lot of money and energy protecting our product,” says Sam Heitner, director of the Office of Champagne USA, a trade group that represents the interests of Champagne producers.

That spending is on display in Times Square, where a giant screen flashes an ad by Mr. Heitner’s group for holiday revelers. A bottle, labeled “American Champagne,” is covered by a red, Venetian-style carnival mask. It’s part of the group’s “Unmask the truth” campaign, which notes its opposition to the name’s use by United States producers.

Producers of prosecco may also be in for a long fight.

PROSECCO’S success can be seen in the steep-hilled villages surrounding Conegliano and Valdobbiadene.

The area has grown from a sleepy agricultural area to one of Italy’s wealthiest enclaves, dotted with shiny new wineries and farmhouses that have been transformed into rustic inns to support a growing wine tourism trade.

Prosecco sales from this area alone were 370 million euros last year. And a hectare (2.47 acres) of vineyard in the most coveted spots, like Cartizze, sells for more than $1 million. Prosecco from Cartizze, a panettone-shaped hill in Valdobbiadene where 140 growers farm about 250 acres, fetches about $40 a bottle.

The vines are tended and harvested by hand. Machines cannot navigate the vertical angles, although helicopters are occasionally used when a vineyard needs to be sprayed. The soil and the mix of warm days and cool nights make for an especially flavorful prosecco — an affinity given official weight in 1969, when the region was awarded the status of denominazione di origine controllata, or D.O.C., Italy’s version of a wine appellation.

The region’s turn of fortunes, though, is relatively recent. Although prosecco grapes have been cultivated here for three centuries, in the early days they were made mostly into still wine for local consumption. The vines shared the steep hillsides with more valuable cows and sheep.

It was only after a new method for producing sparkling wine became widespread in the mid-1900s that things began to change.

Champagne and other sparkling wines typically get their bubbles when they are fermented a second time, with added sugar and yeast. The yeast feeds on the sugar and converts into alcohol and carbon dioxide. When the bottle is opened, the escaping gas gives the wine its bubbles and characteristic “pop.”

Champagne re-ferments in bottles, an expensive and labor-intensive process. But the new production methods allowed prosecco makers to re-ferment their wine in large tanks, a process that kept prices down. That, and prosecco’s light, delicate flavor and low alcohol content, made it an especially versatile wine.

IN Italy, prosecco is enjoyed year-round — and practically around the clock. “The only moment we don’t drink it is for breakfast,” Mr. Giustiniani says.

That approachability has helped propel the popularity of prosecco — in the 1960s throughout Italy, in the ’80s in Germany and neighboring countries and in the ’90s in the United States, which today is prosecco’s No. 1 market outside of Italy.

Perhaps no one pushed harder to establish prosecco in the United States than Mionetto, a winery founded in Valdobbiadene in 1886 and now one of the area’s largest, with sales of 40 million euros a year.

Seeing the tremendous growth potential in the 1990s, this winery began expanding aggressively. It established Mionetto USA to control distribution in North America and has spent millions of dollars promoting prosecco and the Mionetto brand. Today, the company has the leading market share, roughly 33 percent, in the United States, with 168,000 cases a year of its D.O.C. and non-D.O.C. prosecco.

Still, says Sergio Mionetto, who took over as chief winemaker from his grandfather in 1956, “we believe we’re just at the tip of the iceberg.”

At the bustling Union Square Cafe in Manhattan, where the house prosecco is Mr. Mionetto’s top-of-the-line Sergio (named after himself), prosecco by the glass outsells Champagne two to one, says Stephen Paul Mancini, director of wine and spirits at the restaurant. “Prosecco is an extremely popular product for us,” he adds. And some retailers report that prosecco is flying off shelves this holiday season.

Prosecco is also catching on in new markets, like China, India and Vietnam, causing producers to think even bigger.

“Prosecco can be the best-selling sparkling wine of the world,” says Gianluca Bisol, a 21st-generation winemaker and general manager of the Bisol winery, in Valdobbiadene. He figures that prosecco can overtake Champagne in sales volume in the next 25 years or so.

The problem is that others saw the potential, too. It started with the relative newcomers in the plains of northern Italy. Growers there are less regulated than their D.O.C. kin; they were granted the Italian wine system’s least-stringent designation, known as I.G.T., in 1995. They can produce almost double the volume of wine per hectare, and quality can vary.

In the flatlands, winemakers can use machines to harvest and tend to their vines, at about a tenth of the cost, Mr. Bisol and others say. “For these reasons,” Mr. Bisol says, “this area that didn’t exist 25 years ago now accounts for 60 percent of prosecco production.”

A more recent worry for the consortium and newer growers is that countries like Brazil, Romania, Argentina and Australia have begun to plant prosecco. Brazil, in particular, has embraced the grape, perhaps not surprisingly, given that its main wine region is populated by northern Italian immigrants.

Close to 2,000 acres of prosecco are planted in Brazil, Mr. Bisol says.

“The Brazilians like parties,” Mr. Bisol says. “They drink a lot of prosecco.” The homegrown prosecco could cut into Italian sales there: Brazil is already the fifth-largest export market for Italian prosecco.

Closer to home, German and Austrian producers have taken to buying tanks of Italian prosecco produced in the plains and shipping it to their countries to be bottled. Or canned, in the case of Rich Prosecco.

When Ms. Hilton traveled to northern Italy to promote Rich Prosecco two years ago, “it was a big scandal for the area,” Mr. Bisol says. “The winegrowers were very angry.” She has not returned, he says.

Günther Aloys, a hotelier and entrepreneur in the Austrian resort town of Ischgl who introduced Rich Prosecco in 2006, plans to take it to the United States next year. And Mr. Jahnke, the sales and marketing executive at Rich, said the company was following the developments with the Italian producers’ proposal to the Italian government.

THE threat of foreign-brand prosecco has prompted northern Italian producers, of both D.O.C. and I.G.T. prosecco, to work together to protect their turf. They say they believe that their proposal will raise quality and prevent others from calling their products prosecco.

The plan would create a broad new D.O.C. designation to govern the hundreds of I.G.T. prosecco producers that have sprung up across eight northern Italian provinces in the plains from Treviso to Trieste. The producers would have to comply with strict quality controls, including lower yields per hectare and stronger oversight.

The region of Conegliano-Valdobbiadene, meanwhile, would be elevated to Italy’s highest designation for wine regions, known as D.O.C.G.

The key is to link prosecco to its traditional home.

“We don’t want to end up with something like pinot grigio,” says Primo Franco, owner of the Nino Franco winery in Valdobbiadene, referring to another white wine grape from the Veneto region that today is grown around the world.

Because prosecco is also the name of a northern Italian village where the grape is believed to have originated, the consortium can make an argument, too, that prosecco is a place name that can be protected just like Chianti, Champagne and others.

By bringing all of northern Italy’s prosecco makers into the fold, the winemakers hope to do more than give prosecco a territorial identity. They also want the muscle power to meet growing demand and achieve their goal of matching or even besting Champagne, which today produces some 300 million bottles a year. About 150 million bottles of Italian prosecco are produced a year.

Prosecco producers say they believe that with the new plan, they can double their output to 300 million or even 400 million bottles a year, while providing consumers with a guarantee of quality.

“Champagne is the king of the bubble,” Mr. Bisol says. “But prosecco maybe can be considered the small prince.”

In recent weeks, the winemakers have been scrambling to nail down a final proposal to the Italian government before a year-end deadline. The producers hope to be eligible for a streamlined European Union system that goes into effect in August. If all goes well, the new prosecco protections will be in place for the 2009 harvest.

But that is just a start. European Union regulations are valid only for members, and deals have to be struck with countries outside of the union, like the United States or Brazil, on an, ahem, case-by-case basis. For now, says Mr. Moretti Polegato of Villa Sandi, “everybody involved in prosecco production is happy.”

You can almost hear the corks popping.

Subject: Marketing; Consortia; Wineries & vineyards

Location: Italy Brazil United States--US France

Company / organization: Name: Villa Sandi; NAICS: 312130; Name: European Union; NAICS: 926110, 928120

Identifier / keyword: Hilton, Paris Prosecco (Wine) Wines Area Planning and Renewal European Union Italy High Net Worth Individuals Alcoholic Beverages UNION SQUARE CAFE United States Champagne (Wine) France Primo Advertising and Marketing Brazil SALES Carnival (Pre-Lenten) Venice (Italy) Sidewalk Cafes Austria Restaurants Europe Animals Times Square and 42nd Street (NYC) Travel and Vacations Germany Holidays and Special Occasions North America Regulation and Deregulation of Industry Manhattan (NYC) International Trade and World Market Agriculture China India Vietnam Romania Argentina Australia Trieste (Italy)

Publication title: New York Times (Online); New York

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 26, 2008

Section: business

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York

Country of publication: United States, New York

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Blogs, Podcasts, & Websites

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2220920304

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2220920304?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright 2019 The New York Times Company

Last updated: 2019-05-07

Database: US Major Dailies

Document 312 of 313

December 27, 2008 (Page 47 of 55)

Publication info: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011) ; Fort Lauderdale, Florida [Fort Lauderdale, Florida]27 Dec 2008: 47.

ProQuest document link

Abstract: None available.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text: Not available.

Publication title: South Florida Sun Sentinel (2000-2011); Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Volume: 49

Issue: 746

First page: 47

Number of pages: 1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 27, 2008

Publisher: Tribune Interactive, LLC

Place of publication: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Country of publication: United States, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

Source type: Historical Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 2248990962

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/2248990962?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright Tribune Interactive, LLC Dec 27, 2008

Last updated: 2019-06-29

Database: ProQuest Historical Newspapers: U.S. Southeast Collection

Document 313 of 313

Prosecco Wants Its Place in the Sun: [Money and Business/Financial Desk]

Author: Cortese, Amy

Publication info: New York Times , Late Edition (East Coast); New York, N.Y. [New York, N.Y]28 Dec 2008: BU.1.

ProQuest document link

Abstract:

IN 1984, Fabio Zardetto, chief winemaker at his family-run vineyard in northern Italy, leapt at the chance to become one of the first bottlers to export prosecco, the sparkling wine, to the United States. The Champagne region of France has been officially designated since 1927 as the authentic home of the wine that bears its name, but its trade organization still spends millions of dollars battling producers of items as varied as sparkling wine, bubble bath and bottled water that also use the word.

Links: Find it @ FSU

Full text:

IN 1984, Fabio Zardetto, chief winemaker at his family-run vineyard in northern Italy, leapt at the chance to become one of the first bottlers to export prosecco, the sparkling wine, to the United States.

At first, his efforts on behalf of his bubbly fizzled. "I had to push people to taste the prosecco," recalled Mr. Zardetto, now 50. "I would run behind them with a glass saying, 'Please, taste this.' "

When they did try it, he said, they were pleasantly surprised. Sales of Zardetto prosecco grew to 100,000 cases in the United States in 2007, from 50 cases in 1984.

With its fresh flavor, pleasing bubbles and gentle price tag -- it typically sells for $10 to $20 a bottle -- prosecco has gained many fans worldwide. Global sales have been growing by double-digit percentages for 10 years, to more than 150 million bottles last year. And with consumers in an economizing mood this holiday season, prosecco is an increasingly popular alternative to Champagne, which has been soaring in price.

But prosecco is also encountering some growing pains. From its traditional home in northern Italy, it is now waging a war against outsiders, just as Champagne, its more elite cousin in France, has done for so many years.

A host of producers elsewhere in Italy and as far away as Brazil are trying to cash in on the drink's newfound popularity. Because prosecco is the name of a grape, like chardonnay or cabernet, anyone can use the name.

Today, about 60 percent of all prosecco -- some eight million cases -- comes from producers outside the traditional prosecco-growing region of Conegliano-Valdobbiadene, a cluster of villages about a half-hour's drive north of Venice. The newcomers are not held to the same strict production standards as the traditional producers, which are tightly governed under Italian wine laws.

One product, Rich Prosecco, is made by an Austrian company whose ads feature Paris Hilton. In some, she is naked and spray-painted gold. What's worse to some producers, the product is sold in a 6.8-ounce can, in gas stations as well as stores, for around $3.

"It's absolutely vulgar," says Vittorio Zoppi, marketing manager for the prosecco consortium.

Claus Jahnke, a sales and marketing executive at Rich, says he is puzzled by the reaction to the product, which uses Italian grapes. "We have invested a lot of money in advertising and P.R. to launch Rich and promote prosecco," he says. "We gave this famous grape a helping hand in conquering the world."

The Italian winemakers worry that upstarts will weaken prosecco's image just as it is taking off.

"If everyone around the world plants prosecco, we will lose the value of the name," says Ludovico Giustiniani, vice president of a consortium that represents about 150 wineries in the traditional prosecco-producing region.

Over months of discussions, the consortium, along with a broader group of growers and producers, has hammered out a plan that would create an official prosecco production zone tied exclusively to northern Italy. Only wine produced in that region could be labeled as prosecco. If the plan is approved by the Italian government -- a decision is expected by early 2009 -- prosecco would then be eligible for "protected designation of origin" status under European laws intended to protect regional products from Champagne and port to Serrano ham.

"It will let prosecco be an Italian product -- and nothing else," says Giancarlo Moretti Polegato, the owner of Villa Sandi, one of the area's prominent wineries.

That is the theory, at least. Protection from the European Union would extend only across its 27 member countries, and, as Champagne producers have discovered, a lot of policing is still required.

The Champagne region of France has been officially designated since 1927 as the authentic home of the wine that bears its name, but its trade organization still spends millions of dollars battling producers of items as varied as sparkling wine, bubble bath and bottled water that also use the word.

"We have to spend a lot of money and energy protecting our product," says Sam Heitner, director of the Office of Champagne USA, a trade group that represents the interests of Champagne producers.

That spending is on display in Times Square, where a giant screen flashes an ad by Mr. Heitner's group for holiday revelers. A bottle, labeled "American Champagne," is covered by a red, Venetian-style carnival mask. It's part of the group's "Unmask the truth" campaign, which notes its opposition to the name's use by United States producers.

Producers of prosecco may also be in for a long fight.

PROSECCO'S success can be seen in the steep-hilled villages surrounding Conegliano and Valdobbiadene.

The area has grown from a sleepy agricultural area to one of Italy's wealthiest enclaves, dotted with shiny new wineries and farmhouses that have been transformed into rustic inns to support a growing wine tourism trade.

Prosecco sales from this area alone were 370 million euros last year. And a hectare (2.47 acres) of vineyard in the most coveted spots, like Cartizze, sells for more than $1 million. Prosecco from Cartizze, a panettone-shaped hill in Valdobbiadene where 140 growers farm about 250 acres, fetches about $40 a bottle.

The vines are tended and harvested by hand. Machines cannot navigate the vertical angles, although helicopters are occasionally used when a vineyard needs to be sprayed. The soil and the mix of warm days and cool nights make for an especially flavorful prosecco -- an affinity given official weight in 1969, when the region was awarded the status of denominazione di origine controllata, or D.O.C., Italy's version of a wine appellation.

The region's turn of fortunes, though, is relatively recent. Although prosecco grapes have been cultivated here for three centuries, in the early days they were made mostly into still wine for local consumption. The vines shared the steep hillsides with more valuable cows and sheep.

It was only after a new method for producing sparkling wine became widespread in the mid-1900s that things began to change.

Champagne and other sparkling wines typically get their bubbles when they are fermented a second time, with added sugar and yeast. The yeast feeds on the sugar and converts into alcohol and carbon dioxide. When the bottle is opened, the escaping gas gives the wine its bubbles and characteristic "pop."

Champagne re-ferments in bottles, an expensive and labor-intensive process. But the new production methods allowed prosecco makers to re-ferment their wine in large tanks, a process that kept prices down. That, and prosecco's light, delicate flavor and low alcohol content, made it an especially versatile wine.

IN Italy, prosecco is enjoyed year-round -- and practically around the clock. "The only moment we don't drink it is for breakfast," Mr. Giustiniani says.

That approachability has helped propel the popularity of prosecco -- in the 1960s throughout Italy, in the '80s in Germany and neighboring countries and in the '90s in the United States, which today is prosecco's No. 1 market outside of Italy.

Perhaps no one pushed harder to establish prosecco in the United States than Mionetto, a winery founded in Valdobbiadene in 1886 and now one of the area's largest, with sales of 40 million euros a year.

Seeing the tremendous growth potential in the 1990s, this winery began expanding aggressively. It established Mionetto USA to control distribution in North America and has spent millions of dollars promoting prosecco and the Mionetto brand. Today, the company has the leading market share, roughly 33 percent, in the United States, with 168,000 cases a year of its D.O.C. and non-D.O.C. prosecco.

Still, says Sergio Mionetto, who took over as chief winemaker from his grandfather in 1956, "we believe we're just at the tip of the iceberg."

At the bustling Union Square Cafe in Manhattan, where the house prosecco is Mr. Mionetto's top-of-the-line Sergio (named after himself), prosecco by the glass outsells Champagne two to one, says Stephen Paul Mancini, director of wine and spirits at the restaurant. "Prosecco is an extremely popular product for us," he adds. And some retailers report that prosecco is flying off shelves this holiday season.

Prosecco is also catching on in new markets, like China, India and Vietnam, causing producers to think even bigger.

"Prosecco can be the best-selling sparkling wine of the world," says Gianluca Bisol, a 21st-generation winemaker and general manager of the Bisol winery, in Valdobbiadene. He figures that prosecco can overtake Champagne in sales volume in the next 25 years or so.

The problem is that others saw the potential, too. It started with the relative newcomers in the plains of northern Italy. Growers there are less regulated than their D.O.C. kin; they were granted the Italian wine system's least-stringent designation, known as I.G.T., in 1995. They can produce almost double the volume of wine per hectare, and quality can vary.

In the flatlands, winemakers can use machines to harvest and tend to their vines, at about a tenth of the cost, Mr. Bisol and others say. "For these reasons," Mr. Bisol says, "this area that didn't exist 25 years ago now accounts for 60 percent of prosecco production."

A more recent worry for the consortium and newer growers is that countries like Brazil, Romania, Argentina and Australia have begun to plant prosecco. Brazil, in particular, has embraced the grape, perhaps not surprisingly, given that its main wine region is populated by northern Italian immigrants.

Close to 2,000 acres of prosecco are planted in Brazil, Mr. Bisol says.

"The Brazilians like parties," Mr. Bisol says. "They drink a lot of prosecco." The homegrown prosecco could cut into Italian sales there: Brazil is already the fifth-largest export market for Italian prosecco.

Closer to home, German and Austrian producers have taken to buying tanks of Italian prosecco produced in the plains and shipping it to their countries to be bottled. Or canned, in the case of Rich Prosecco.

When Ms. Hilton traveled to northern Italy to promote Rich Prosecco two years ago, "it was a big scandal for the area," Mr. Bisol says. "The winegrowers were very angry." She has not returned, he says.

Gunther Aloys, a hotelier and entrepreneur in the Austrian resort town of Ischgl who introduced Rich Prosecco in 2006, plans to take it to the United States next year. And Mr. Jahnke, the sales and marketing executive at Rich, said the company was following the developments with the Italian producers' proposal to the Italian government.

THE threat of foreign-brand prosecco has prompted northern Italian producers, of both D.O.C. and I.G.T. prosecco, to work together to protect their turf. They say they believe that their proposal will raise quality and prevent others from calling their products prosecco.

The plan would create a broad new D.O.C. designation to govern the hundreds of I.G.T. prosecco producers that have sprung up across eight northern Italian provinces in the plains from Treviso to Trieste. The producers would have to comply with strict quality controls, including lower yields per hectare and stronger oversight.

The region of Conegliano-Valdobbiadene, meanwhile, would be elevated to Italy's highest designation for wine regions, known as D.O.C.G.

The key is to link prosecco to its traditional home.

"We don't want to end up with something like pinot grigio," says Primo Franco, owner of the Nino Franco winery in Valdobbiadene, referring to another white wine grape from the Veneto region that today is grown around the world.

Because prosecco is also the name of a northern Italian village where the grape is believed to have originated, the consortium can make an argument, too, that prosecco is a place name that can be protected just like Chianti, Champagne and others.

By bringing all of northern Italy's prosecco makers into the fold, the winemakers hope to do more than give prosecco a territorial identity. They also want the muscle power to meet growing demand and achieve their goal of matching or even besting Champagne, which today produces some 300 million bottles a year. About 150 million bottles of Italian prosecco are produced a year.

Prosecco producers say they believe that with the new plan, they can double their output to 300 million or even 400 million bottles a year, while providing consumers with a guarantee of quality.

"Champagne is the king of the bubble," Mr. Bisol says. "But prosecco maybe can be considered the small prince."

In recent weeks, the winemakers have been scrambling to nail down a final proposal to the Italian government before a year-end deadline. The producers hope to be eligible for a streamlined European Union system that goes into effect in August. If all goes well, the new prosecco protections will be in place for the 2009 harvest.

But that is just a start. European Union regulations are valid only for members, and deals have to be struck with countries outside of the union, like the United States or Brazil, on an, ahem, case-by-case basis. For now, says Mr. Moretti Polegato of Villa Sandi, "everybody involved in prosecco production is happy."

You can almost hear the corks popping.

Photograph

Sergio Mionetto and Other Northern Italian Winemakers Have Seen a Wave of Popularity for Prosecco, a Sparkling Wine.(Photograph by Dave Yoder for the New York Times)(Bu1); the Bisol Family's Vineyards, Where Prosecco Grapes Are Grown. The Grape has Been Grown for 300 Years in Northern Italy, Originally for Still Wines.(Photograph by Dave Yoder for the New York Times); Gianluca Bisol Is a 21st-Generation Winemaker and General Manager of His Family's Winery in Valdobbiadene.(Photograph by Dave Yoder for the New York Times); at Union Square Cafe in Manhattan, Prosecco by the Glass Is Outselling Champagne Two to One. It Is Also Catching On in New Markets Like China.(Photograph by Gianni Cipriano for the New York Times)
CHART: Sparkling Sales for Fizzy Wines: Champagne, prosecco and other effervescent wines are more popular than ever. Spending on sparkling wines in nearly every country increased in the last five years, particularly in East Asia, Eastern Europe and South America. (Source: Euromonitor International)(BU7)

Subject: Marketing; Wineries & vineyards; Sparkling wine; Market shares

Publication title: New York Times, Late Edition (East Coast); New York, N.Y.

Pages: BU.1

Publication year: 2008

Publication date: Dec 28, 2008

Section: BU

Publisher: New York Times Company

Place of publication: New York, N.Y.

Country of publication: United States, New York, N.Y.

Publication subject: General Interest Periodicals--United States

ISSN: 03624331

CODEN: NYTIAO

Source type: Newspapers

Language of publication: English

Document type: News

ProQuest document ID: 433986565

Document URL: https://login.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/login?url=https://search-proquest-com.proxy.lib.fsu.edu/docview/433986565?accountid=4840

Copyright: Copyright New York Times Company Dec 28, 2008

Last updated: 2017-11-15

Database: US Major Dailies